Geoscientists study aspects of the earth.
Geoscientists study the earth through researching the planet's structure, physical composition, natural processes and history. Geoscientists play an important role in society. These scientists apply geology, physics and mathematics to solve environmental problems. Research may contribute toward solutions in environmental protection, resource management, safety, public health and welfare.
Roles
Geoscientists have a variety of duties, depending on their employer and specialization. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, geoscientists use sophisticated equipment and instruments to analyze the composition of earth, rock and water. Many seek natural resources, such as petroleum, metals and groundwater. Others work with environmental scientists to clean the environment. According to the American Geological Institute, the National Science Foundation considers the following areas major geoscience subdisciplines: geophysics, geology, hydrology, marine science, oceanography, atmospheric science, meteorology, planetary science, soil science and environmental science.
Environment
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, geoscientists can spend much of their time in the field examining Earth formations, collecting data, conducting surveys, creating field maps and using equipment to measure the earth's magnetic or gravitational field. Such field work requires geoscientists to work irregular and long hours in all types of weather. In laboratories, geoscientists may study specimens. Some geoscientists work in an office where they write reports or enter data.
Education
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, a bachelor's degree in geosciences or a related bachelor's degree with a concentration in geosciences may be the minimum requirement for a few entry-level job positions. Most geoscientists need a master's degree. A Ph.D. is a requirement for advanced teaching and research positions in college institutions.
Salary
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, geoscientists earned a national mean hourly wage of $44.57 and a national mean annual wage of $92,710 in May 2009. Industries that employed the highest number of geoscientists included architectural, engineer and related services with an annual mean wage of $76,220; oil and gas extraction, $136,270; management, scientific and technical consulting services, $73,920; state government, $62,550; and the federal executive branch, $94,560.
Job Outlook
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for geoscientists is expected to grow faster than average at a rate of 18 percent through 2018. Job applicants with a master's degree in geoscience are expected to have excellent job opportunities. On the other hand, candidates who hold a Ph.D. and are applying for research and college teaching jobs will face fierce competition.
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