Geologist Science & Engineering Professionals
SaveWhat Does a Geologist Do?
Geologists research the materials that form the earth. Their observations depend on the purpose of the research. Depending on their specialisation, geologists study how the Earth has been shaped over time, its geological layers, the quality of minerals for mining purposes, earthquakes and volcanic activity for private services, and similar phenomena.
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Where Do I Start?
Scientific Research Methodology
The theoretical methodology used in scientific research involving doing background research, constructing an hypothesis, testing it, analysing data and concluding the results.
Sign up to trackReady to go deeper? Pick up to 3 skills to focus on from the list below.
These are common skills for this role. Real-world experience matters more than ticking every box — use this as a guide, not a checklist.
Skills You Need to Become a Geologist
Essential Skills
Essential Skills
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EssentialScientific Research Methodology knowledge
The theoretical methodology used in scientific research involving doing background research, constructing an hypothesis, testing it, analysing data and concluding the results.
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EssentialCartography knowledge
The study of interpreting the elements depicted in maps, the measures and technical specifications.
No book recommendations available yet.
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EssentialGeology knowledge
Solid earth, rock types, structures and the processes by which they are altered.
No book recommendations available yet.
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EssentialMathematics knowledge
Mathematics is the study of topics such as quantity, structure, space, and change. It involves the identification of patterns and formulating new conjectures based on them. Mathematicians strive to prove …
No book recommendations available yet.
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EssentialScientific Modelling knowledge
Scientific activity consisting in selecting the relevant aspects of a situation and aiming to represent physical processes, empirical objects and phenomena to allow a better understanding, visualisation or quantification, and …
No book recommendations available yet.
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EssentialStatistics knowledge
The study of statistical theory, methods and practices such as collection, organisation, analysis, interpretation and presentation of data. It deals with all aspects of data including the planning of data …
No book recommendations available yet.
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EssentialGeological Time Scale knowledge
System of chronological measurement dividing geologic history into several temporal divisions and subdivisions that take ancient life, geography, and climates into account.
Recommended Books
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EssentialApply Safety Procedures In Laboratory skill
Make sure that laboratory equipment is used in a safe manner and the handling of samples and specimens is correct. Work to ensure the validity of results obtained in research.
Course recommendations coming soon.
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EssentialApply Scientific Methods skill
Apply scientific methods and techniques to investigate phenomena, by acquiring new knowledge or correcting and integrating previous knowledge.
Course recommendations coming soon.
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EssentialApply Statistical Analysis Techniques skill
Use models (descriptive or inferential statistics) and techniques (data mining or machine learning) for statistical analysis and ICT tools to analyse data, uncover correlations and forecast trends.
Course recommendations coming soon.
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EssentialCalibrate Laboratory Equipment skill
Calibrate laboratory equipment by comparing between measurements: one of known magnitude or correctness, made with a trusted device and a second measurement from another piece of laboratory equipment. Make the …
Course recommendations coming soon.
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EssentialCollect Geological Data skill
Participate in the collection of geological data such as core logging, geological mapping, geochemical and geophysical surveying, digital data capture, etc.
Course recommendations coming soon.
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EssentialExecute Analytical Mathematical Calculations skill
Apply mathematical methods and make use of calculation technologies in order to perform analyses and devise solutions to specific problems.
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EssentialOperate Scientific Measuring Equipment skill
Operate devices, machinery, and equipment designed for scientific measurement. Scientific equipment consists of specialised measuring instruments refined to facilitate the acquisition of data.
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EssentialPerform Laboratory Tests skill
Carry out tests in a laboratory to produce reliable and precise data to support scientific research and product testing.
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EssentialPerform Scientific Research skill
Gain, correct or improve knowledge about phenomena by using scientific methods and techniques, based on empirical or measurable observations.
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EssentialRecord Test Data skill
Record data which has been identified specifically during preceding tests in order to verify that outputs of the test produce specific results or to review the reaction of the subject …
Course recommendations coming soon.
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EssentialWrite Scientific Papers skill
Present the hypothesis, findings, and conclusions of your scientific research in your field of expertise in a professional publication.
Course recommendations coming soon.
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EssentialCarry Out Geological Explorations skill
Perform exploration activities for mines and fields with the aim of analysing the properties of the area and finding ores.
Course recommendations coming soon.
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EssentialConduct Soil Sample Tests skill
Analyse and test soil samples; determine gas chromatography and gather relevant isotope and carbon information; determine viscosity.
Course recommendations coming soon.
Optional Skills (5 of 34 displayed)
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OptionalGeographic Information Systems knowledge
The tools involved in geographical mapping and positioning, such as GPS (global positioning systems), GIS (geographical information systems), and RS (remote sensing).
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OptionalSedimentology knowledge
The study of sediments, namely sand, clay, and silt, and the natural processes undergone in their formation.
Recommended Books
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OptionalEnvironmental Legislation knowledge
The environmental policies and legislation applicable in a certain domain.
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1 book -
OptionalGeochemistry knowledge
The scientific discipline that studies the presence and distribution of chemical elements in the geological systems of Earth.
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3 books -
OptionalGeophysics knowledge
The scientific field that deals with the physical processes and properties of, and spatial environment surrounding Earth. Geophysics also deals with the quantitative analysis of phenomena such as magnetic fields, …
Recommended Books
2 books -
OptionalGeological Mapping knowledge
The technique used to create maps that clearly illustrate the geological features and rock layers of an area that may be useful for mining projects and geological explorations.
Recommended Books
2 books -
OptionalGeochronology knowledge
The branch of geology and scientific field specialised in dating the age of rocks, rock formations, and sediments in order to determine geological events and map the chronology of Earth.
Recommended Books
1 book -
OptionalImpact Of Geological Factors On Mining Operations knowledge
Be aware of the impact of geological factors, such as faults and rock movements, on mining operations.
No book recommendations available yet.
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OptionalSoil Science knowledge
The field of science that studies soil as a natural resource, its characteristics, formation, and classification. It also examines the physical, biological, and chemical potential of soil.
Recommended Books
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OptionalLogging knowledge
The process of felling, cutting trees and transforming them into timber, including mechanical felling and processing.
No book recommendations available yet.
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OptionalPetrology knowledge
The scientific field of geology that studies the composition, structure, texture, other characteristics, and regional gradations of rocks.
No book recommendations available yet.
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OptionalApply Digital Mapping skill
Make maps by formatting compiled data into a virtual image that gives a precise representation of a specific area.
Course recommendations coming soon.
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OptionalAssess Environmental Impact skill
Monitor environmental impacts and carry out assessments in order to identify and to reduce the organisation's environmental risks while taking costs into account.
Course recommendations coming soon.
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OptionalCollect Samples For Analysis skill
Collect samples of materials or products for laboratory analysis.
Course recommendations coming soon.
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OptionalConduct Field Work skill
Conduct field work or research which is the collection of information outside of a laboratory or workplace setting. Visit places in order to collect specific information about the field.
Course recommendations coming soon.
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OptionalConduct Land Surveys skill
Conduct surveys to determine the location and features of natural and man-made structures, on surface level as well as underground and underwater. Operate electronic distance-measuring equipment and digital measuring instruments.
Course recommendations coming soon.
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OptionalDesign Scientific Equipment skill
Design new equipment or adapt existing equipment to aid scientists in gathering and analysing data and samples.
Course recommendations coming soon.
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OptionalDevelop Geological Databases skill
Develop geological databases in order to acquire and organise information.
Course recommendations coming soon.
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OptionalDevelop Scientific Research Protocols skill
Develop and record the procedural method used for a specific scientific experiment in order to enable its replication.
Course recommendations coming soon.
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OptionalDevelop Scientific Theories skill
Formulate scientific theories based on empirical observations, gathered data and theories of other scientists.
Course recommendations coming soon.
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OptionalInterpret Geophysical Data skill
Interpret data of a geophysical nature: Earth's shape, its gravitational and magnetic fields, its structure and composition, and geophysical dynamics and their surface expression in plate tectonics.
Course recommendations coming soon.
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OptionalPrepare Geological Map Sections skill
Prepare geological sections, a vertical view of the local geology.
Course recommendations coming soon.
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OptionalProcess Data skill
Enter information into a data storage and data retrieval system via processes such as scanning, manual keying or electronic data transfer in order to process large amounts of data.
Course recommendations coming soon.
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OptionalProvide Technical Expertise skill
Provide expert knowledge in a particular field, especially concerning mechanical or scientific subjects, to decision makers, engineers, technical staff or journalists.
Course recommendations coming soon.
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OptionalStudy Aerial Photos skill
Use aerial photos to study phenomena on Earth's surface.
Course recommendations coming soon.
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OptionalUse Geographic Information Systems skill
Work with computer data systems such as Geographic Information Systems (GIS).
Course recommendations coming soon.
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OptionalWrite Research Proposals skill
Synthetise and write proposals aiming to solve research problems. Draft the proposal baseline and objectives, the estimated budget, risks and impact. Document the advances and new developments on the relevant …
Course recommendations coming soon.
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OptionalAdvise On Building Matters skill
Provide advice on building matters to the various parties involved in construction projects. Bring to their awareness important building considerations and consult on construction budgets.
Course recommendations coming soon.
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OptionalAdvise On Geology For Mineral Extraction skill
Provide advice of the impact of geological factors on the development of mineral production. Take into account factors such as cost, safety, and characteristics of deposits.
Course recommendations coming soon.
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OptionalConduct Sediment Control skill
Manage sediment control processes and projects. Plan sediment control actions to prevent eroded soil from polluting nearby waterways.
Course recommendations coming soon.
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OptionalExamine Geochemical Samples skill
Analyse laboratory samples using equipment such as spectrometers, gas chromatographs, microscopes, microprobes and carbon analysers. Determine the age and characteristics of environmental samples such as minerals, rock or soil.
Course recommendations coming soon.
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OptionalInvestigate Soil Stability skill
Collect soil samples from the railway site, using bores and test pits in order to determine ground stress capability and stability.
Course recommendations coming soon.
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OptionalPrepare Surveying Report skill
Write a survey report containing information on property boundaries, the height and depth of the terrain, etc..
Course recommendations coming soon.
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OptionalProvide Information On Geological Characteristics skill
Provide information on geological structures, host rock quality, groundwater implications and details on the mineralogical and textural composition of ores to enable mining and processing to be planned efficiently. The …
Course recommendations coming soon.
