Exploration Geologist

Geoscientists may specialize as a field or exploration geologist. They study the nature, the composition and the structure of the earth to increase scientific knowledge, locate materials and mineral, and direct the extraction of minerals, environmental protection of land after mining.

Geoscientists discover the earth’s surface and its resources of value, and usually work in an oil exploration. Geoscientist in the minerals industry may perform the following tasks: exploring specific areas of the earth to establish, studying rock core, cuttings and samples, studying geo-statics and sampling theory, undertaking ground magnetic and gravity surveys, undertaking ground magnetic and gravity surveys, examining specimens in the lab using x-ray, assisting in determining the economics of extraction, advise on geological suitability for structures, contributing to environmental assessment, using computers to integrate and interpret data, preparing mathematical models to describe processes, preparing geological reports, supervising and coordinating the work of field officers.

Geophysicists study physical aspects of the earth to determine its structure and composition, locate minerals or ground water and to detect, monitor and forecast seismic, magnetic, electrical and thermal activity. Moreover, an exploration geologist may spend nearly as much time outdoors as they will indoors. Outdoor work may include scoping out a sight and looking at rock formation on the surface, supervising the drilling process.  

Tasks performed in the minerals industry may include:

·         Conducting surveys of variations in the earth's gravitational and magnetic fields to determine its physical features;

·         Investigating the structure and stability of the earth's mantle and crust;

·         Studying the causes of earthquakes and other stress states of the earth's crust;

·         Performing laboratory and field studies, ground and drill hole surveys;

·         May supervise and coordinate the work of technical officers and technicians.

Skill Level for Geophysicists:

The entry requirement for this occupation is a bachelor degree or higher qualification. In some instances relevant experience is required in addition to the formal qualification.