Geoscientists, Except Hydrologists and Geographers
Medium49.96%
Salary Range
Low (10th %)$52,500
Median$92,580
High (90th %)$172,600
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Study the composition, structure, and other physical aspects of the Earth. May use geological, physics, and mathematics knowledge in exploration for oil, gas, minerals, or underground water; or in waste disposal, land reclamation, or other environmental problems. May study the Earth's internal composition, atmospheres, and oceans, and its magnetic, electrical, and gravitational forces. Includes mineralogists, paleontologists, stratigraphers, geodesists, and seismologists.
The occupation of "Geoscientists, Except Hydrologists and Geographers" carries an automation risk of 50.0%, which closely aligns with its base risk of 50.8%. This moderate risk arises from the fact that several core components of the role are susceptible to increasing levels of automation. Notably, tasks such as "locating potential sources of geothermal energy," planning and conducting field studies, and "analyzing and interpreting geological data using computer software" are repetitive or data-driven in nature, making them prime candidates for automation through advanced software, remote sensing, and machine learning algorithms. These tasks can benefit from technologies that streamline data collection, optimize survey logistics, and rapidly process and interpret large datasets, reducing the need for manual input. However, the occupation also features several highly resistant tasks that help moderate its overall automation risk. Geoscientists are often called upon to "determine methods to incorporate geomethane or methane hydrates into global energy production or evaluate the potential environmental impacts of such incorporation." These tasks require a nuanced understanding of complex and often novel environmental phenomena, in addition to integrating scientific knowledge with practical energy production challenges. Furthermore, developing applied software for the analysis and interpretation of geological data, as well as conducting innovative research in areas such as geomechanical or geochemical processes for carbon sequestration, demand advanced problem-solving abilities, creativity, and domain expertise that are less amenable to automation. The most significant bottleneck skill identified for this occupation is originality, which has relatively low automatability scores (3.1% and 3.4%). Originality is essential when devising new research methodologies, developing bespoke software, and tackling unprecedented environmental and geological challenges. While some routine aspects of geoscience can be delegated to machines, the inherently creative, analytical, and integrative aspects of the profession act as strong barriers against full automation. As a result, although certain tasks within this field may become increasingly automated, geoscientists will remain vital for their ability to innovate, interpret, and adapt to new problems and evolving scientific landscapes.
Filter by Automatable Status
Locate potential sources of geothermal energy.
Partially Automatable
Analyze and interpret geological data, using computer software.
Partially Automatable
Investigate the composition, structure, or history of the Earth's crust through the collection, examination, measurement, or classification of soils, minerals, rocks, or fossil remains.
Partially Automatable
Analyze and interpret geological, geochemical, or geophysical information from sources, such as survey data, well logs, bore holes, or aerial photos.
Partially Automatable
Identify risks for natural disasters, such as mudslides, earthquakes, or volcanic eruptions.
Partially Automatable
Prepare geological maps, cross-sectional diagrams, charts, or reports concerning mineral extraction, land use, or resource management, using results of fieldwork or laboratory research.
Partially Automatable
Communicate geological findings by writing research papers, participating in conferences, or teaching geological science at universities.
Partially Automatable
Locate and estimate probable natural gas, oil, or mineral ore deposits or underground water resources, using aerial photographs, charts, or research or survey results.
Partially Automatable
Advise construction firms or government agencies on dam or road construction, foundation design, land use, or resource management.
Partially Automatable
Measure characteristics of the Earth, such as gravity or magnetic fields, using equipment such as seismographs, gravimeters, torsion balances, or magnetometers.
Partially Automatable
Locate and review research articles or environmental, historical, or technical reports.
Partially Automatable
Review environmental, historical, or technical reports and publications for accuracy.
Partially Automatable
Assess ground or surface water movement to provide advice on issues, such as waste management, route and site selection, or the restoration of contaminated sites.
Partially Automatable
Inspect construction projects to analyze engineering problems, using test equipment or drilling machinery.
Partially Automatable
Provide advice on the safe siting of new nuclear reactor projects or methods of nuclear waste management.
Partially Automatable
Design geological mine maps, monitor mine structural integrity, or advise and monitor mining crews.
Partially Automatable
Review work plans to determine the effectiveness of activities for mitigating soil or groundwater contamination.
Partially Automatable
Test industrial diamonds or abrasives, soil, or rocks to determine their geological characteristics, using optical, x-ray, heat, acid, or precision instruments.
Automatable
Study historical climate change indicators found in locations, such as ice sheets or rock formations to develop climate change models.
Partially Automatable
Develop strategies for more environmentally friendly resource extraction and reclamation.
Partially Automatable
Identify deposits of construction materials suitable for use as concrete aggregates, road fill, or other applications.
Partially Automatable
Determine ways to mitigate the negative consequences of mineral dust dispersion.
Partially Automatable
Identify possible sites for carbon sequestration projects.
Partially Automatable
Develop ways to capture or use gases burned off as waste during oil production processes.
Partially Automatable
Research geomechanical or geochemical processes to be used in carbon sequestration projects.
Partially Automatable
Develop applied software for the analysis and interpretation of geological data.
Partially Automatable
Plan or conduct geological, geochemical, or geophysical field studies or surveys, sample collection, or drilling and testing programs used to collect data for research or application.
Partially Automatable
Conduct geological or geophysical studies to provide information for use in regional development, site selection, or development of public works projects.
Partially Automatable
Identify new sources of platinum group elements for industrial applications, such as automotive fuel cells or pollution abatement systems.
Partially Automatable
Research ways to reduce the ecological footprint of increasingly prevalent megacities.
Partially Automatable
Collaborate with medical or health researchers to address health problems related to geological materials or processes.
Partially Automatable
Determine methods to incorporate geomethane or methane hydrates into global energy production or evaluate the potential environmental impacts of such incorporation.
Partially Automatable
Reading ComprehensionActive ListeningCritical ThinkingOperations MonitoringQuality Control AnalysisSystems AnalysisManagement of Material ResourcesWritingSpeakingMathematicsScienceActive LearningLearning StrategiesMonitoringSocial PerceptivenessCoordinationPersuasionNegotiationInstructingService OrientationComplex Problem SolvingOperations AnalysisTechnology DesignEquipment SelectionInstallationProgrammingOperation and ControlEquipment MaintenanceTroubleshootingRepairingJudgment and Decision MakingSystems EvaluationTime ManagementManagement of Financial ResourcesManagement of Personnel Resources
Arm-Hand SteadinessAuditory AttentionCategory FlexibilityControl PrecisionDeductive ReasoningDepth PerceptionDynamic FlexibilityDynamic StrengthExplosive StrengthExtent FlexibilityFar VisionFinger DexterityFlexibility of ClosureFluency of IdeasGlare SensitivityGross Body CoordinationGross Body EquilibriumHearing SensitivityInductive ReasoningInformation OrderingManual DexterityMathematical ReasoningMemorizationMultilimb CoordinationNear VisionNight VisionNumber FacilityOral ComprehensionOral ExpressionOriginalityPerceptual SpeedPeripheral VisionProblem SensitivityRate ControlReaction TimeResponse OrientationSelective AttentionSound LocalizationSpatial OrientationSpeech ClaritySpeech RecognitionSpeed of ClosureSpeed of Limb MovementStaminaStatic StrengthTime SharingTrunk StrengthVisual Color DiscriminationVisualizationWrist-Finger SpeedWritten ComprehensionWritten Expression
Administration and ManagementAdministrativeEconomics and AccountingSales and MarketingCustomer and Personal ServicePersonnel and Human ResourcesProduction and ProcessingFood ProductionComputers and ElectronicsEngineering and TechnologyDesignBuilding and ConstructionHistory and ArcheologyPhilosophy and TheologyMechanicalMathematicsPhysicsChemistryBiologyPsychologySociology and AnthropologyGeographyMedicine and DentistryForeign LanguageFine ArtsEducation and TrainingLaw and GovernmentTelecommunicationsCommunications and MediaTransportationTherapy and CounselingPublic Safety and SecurityEnglish Language
Identifying Objects, Actions, and EventsMonitoring Processes, Materials, or SurroundingsGetting InformationInspecting Equipment, Structures, or MaterialsEstimating the Quantifiable Characteristics of Products, Events, or InformationJudging the Qualities of Objects, Services, or PeopleProcessing InformationEvaluating Information to Determine Compliance with StandardsAnalyzing Data or InformationMaking Decisions and Solving ProblemsThinking CreativelyUpdating and Using Relevant KnowledgeDeveloping Objectives and StrategiesScheduling Work and ActivitiesOrganizing, Planning, and Prioritizing WorkPerforming General Physical ActivitiesHandling and Moving ObjectsControlling Machines and ProcessesOperating Vehicles, Mechanized Devices, or EquipmentWorking with ComputersDocumenting/Recording InformationInterpreting the Meaning of Information for OthersCommunicating with Supervisors, Peers, or SubordinatesCommunicating with People Outside the OrganizationEstablishing and Maintaining Interpersonal RelationshipsAssisting and Caring for OthersSelling or Influencing OthersResolving Conflicts and Negotiating with OthersPerforming for or Working Directly with the PublicCoordinating the Work and Activities of OthersDeveloping and Building TeamsTraining and Teaching OthersGuiding, Directing, and Motivating SubordinatesCoaching and Developing OthersProviding Consultation and Advice to OthersPerforming Administrative ActivitiesStaffing Organizational UnitsMonitoring and Controlling ResourcesRepairing and Maintaining Electronic EquipmentRepairing and Maintaining Mechanical EquipmentDrafting, Laying Out, and Specifying Technical Devices, Parts, and Equipment
CrystalMakerCompass softwareACD Systems CanvasAlara CRystalViewAquifer test softwareAtoll GeoCADBilkoBOSS DidgerChemStatData logger softwareEarthworks MaxiPitEasySolve Software SizePermEnigma softwareEPIC GISEvolution Computing FastCADField data recorder softwareGemcom GEMSESRI ArcViewAdobe PhotoshopESRI ArcInfoData mining softwareESRI ArcIMSSASRSI ENVITrimble TerramodelThe MathWorks MATLABMapping softwareMySQLPythonOriginLab OriginRSI interactive data language IDL softwareGolden Software SurferInternet browser softwareGitLaboratory information management system LIMSMaptek VulcanMineSightMicrosoft Active Server Pages ASPLandmark Graphics GeoGraphixLeica Geosystems ERDAS IMAGINESystat Software SigmaStatGeoModelGeoPLUS PetraGeosoft DAP serverGeosoft Oasis montajGeostatistical modeling GSTAT softwareGeostatistics software GS+Gresens 92Groundwater VistasMicrosoft ProjectMicrosoft WordHydrogeology Basin2HydroSOLVE AQTESOLVMicrosoft OutlookIHS Energy PowerToolsIRIS Seismic Processing WorkshopLandmark VIPMICRODEMMidland Valley 3DMoveMIT OASESMJ Systems LogsleuthOpenOffice.orgPaleoMagPaleontological Statistics PASTPaleoTaxParameter Estimation PESTPolyMapPowerCADRockWare ChemFluxRockware CrossLogRockWare DepthCon2000RockWare EruptRockWare Geochemist's Workbench GWBRockWare GeoTrigRockWare Grav2DcRockWare JlogRockWare PlanRockWare PotentRockWare QuickSynRockWare RockWorksRockWare StratbugsRockWare VEGORockWare WinSismSACLANTCENScientific Software Group FEFLOWScientific Software Group SVHeatSeeByte SeeTrackSeismic interpretation softwareSeismic visualization softwareShape softwareSolvcalvStarpint Software Super SlugStrainSimTECHBASETriton Elics International SeaClassUpperspace DesignCADUpperspace ModelCADWaterloo Hydrogeologic FlowPath IIWell logging softwareERDAS ER MapperIntergraph ImageStation Stereo Softcopy Kit SSKIntergraph ImageStation Stereo Softcopy Kit SSKCrystalMakerCompass softwareACD Systems CanvasAlara CRystalViewAquifer test softwareAtoll GeoCADBilkoBOSS DidgerChemStatData logger softwareSASERDAS ER MapperThe MathWorks MATLABMapping softwareRSI ENVITrimble TerramodelGemcom SurpacMySQLPythonESRI ArcViewGitOriginLab OriginESRI ArcGIS softwareEarthworks MaxiPitGolden Software SurferLaboratory information management system LIMSGroundwater modeling system GMSESRI ArcInfoMapInfo ProfessionalMineSightGeographic information system GIS systemsMicrosoft Active Server Pages ASPESRI ArcIMSLandmark Graphics GeoGraphixLeica Geosystems ERDAS IMAGINESystat Software SigmaStatEasySolve Software SizePermEnigma softwareEPIC GISEvolution Computing FastCADField data recorder softwareGemcom GEMSRSI interactive data language IDL softwareMicrosoft ProjectMicrosoft AccessGeoModelGeoPLUS PetraGeosoft DAP serverGeostatistics software GS+Gresens 92Microsoft ExcelMicrosoft PowerPointGroundwater VistasHydrogeology Basin2IHS Energy PowerToolsLandmark VIPMICRODEMMIT OASESMJ Systems LogsleuthOpenOffice.orgPaleoMagPaleontological Statistics PASTPaleoTaxParameter Estimation PESTPolyMapPowerCADRockWare ChemFluxRockware CrossLogRockWare DepthCon2000RockWare GeoTrigRockWare Grav2DcRockWare JlogRockWare PotentRockWare QuickSynRockWare RockWorksInterpex IXIDRockWare StratbugsRockWare VEGOSeismic Micro-Technology KINGDOMRockWare WinSismSACLANTCENSeeByte SeeTrackMHC Document ExpressSeismic interpretation softwareMineGeo softwareShape softwareRockWare FIRSTPIXSolvcalvStrainSimTECHBASEEarthSoft EQuIS GeologyGeospatial data abstraction library GDALRockWare GRADIXRockWare MicroMODELSchlumberger Inside RealityScientific Software Group Infinite ExtentSocorro Scientific Software Refract2KWord processing softwareUpperspace DesignCADUpperspace ModelCADWell logging softwareWaterloo Hydrogeologic AquaChemAutodesk AutoCADWord processing softwareGeographic resources analysis support system GRASSGeographic resources analysis support system GRASSGeographic information system GIS softwareGeographic information system GIS softwareESRI ArcGIS softwareGeomechanical design analysis GDA softwareIRIS Seismic Processing WorkshopRockWare Geochemist's Workbench GWBAutodesk AutoCADAdobe AcrobatAdobe AcrobatInternet browser softwareGeographic information system GIS systemsMapInfo ProfessionalMaptek VulcanGeomechanical design analysis GDA softwareData mining softwareHydroSOLVE AQTESOLVGemcom SurpacInterpex IXIDMultivariate statistical program MVSP softwareMultivariate statistical program MVSP softwareClover Technology GALENAClover Technology GALENABentley Systems gINTBentley Systems gINTGeosoft Oasis montajGeostatistical modeling GSTAT softwareEarthSoft EQuIS GeologyGroundwater modeling system GMSGeospatial data abstraction library GDALEarthWorks Downhole ExplorerEarthWorks Downhole ExplorerEvolution Computing EasyCADEvolution Computing EasyCADGeo-Logic Systems LithoTect InterpreterGeo-Logic Systems LithoTect InterpreterMidland Valley 3DMoveRockWare EruptRockWare PlanScientific Software Group FEFLOWScientific Software Group SVHeatSeismic visualization softwareStarpint Software Super SlugTriton Elics International SeaClassWaterloo Hydrogeologic FlowPath IIWaterloo Hydrogeologic AquaChemSeismic Micro-Technology KINGDOMMHC Document ExpressMineGeo softwareRockWare FIRSTPIXRockWare GRADIXRockWare MicroMODELSchlumberger Inside RealityScientific Software Group Infinite ExtentSocorro Scientific Software Refract2KNational Geophysical Data Center GEODASNational Geophysical Data Center GEODASParadigm SKUA-GOCADParadigm SKUA-GOCADRed Rock DeltaGraphRed Rock DeltaGraphRockWare RockPack IIIRockWare RockPack IIIRockWare Visual STUNTRockWare Visual STUNTTerrain surface mapping softwareTerrain surface mapping softwareAdobe PhotoshopEmail softwareEmail softwareMicrosoft ExcelMicrosoft Office softwareMicrosoft Office softwareMicrosoft OutlookMicrosoft PowerPointMicrosoft WordMicrosoft Access
Water Resource Specialists
Medium52.67%
Design or implement programs and strategies related to water resource issues such as supply, quality, and regulatory compliance issues.
Data Scientists
Medium59.38%
Develop and implement a set of techniques or analytics applications to transform raw data into meaningful information using data-oriented programming languages and visualization software. Apply data mining, data modeling, natural language processing, and machine learning to extract and analyze information from large structured and unstructured datasets. Visualize, interpret, and report data findings. May create dynamic data reports.
Surveyors
Medium50.29%
Make exact measurements and determine property boundaries. Provide data relevant to the shape, contour, gravitation, location, elevation, or dimension of land or land features on or near the earth's surface for engineering, mapmaking, mining, land evaluation, construction, and other purposes.
Geodetic Surveyors
Medium60.06%
Measure large areas of the Earth's surface using satellite observations, global navigation satellite systems (GNSS), light detection and ranging (LIDAR), or related sources.
Mining and Geological Engineers, Including Mining Safety Engineers
Medium49.08%
Conduct subsurface surveys to identify the characteristics of potential land or mining development sites. May specify the ground support systems, processes, and equipment for safe, economical, and environmentally sound extraction or underground construction activities. May inspect areas for unsafe geological conditions, equipment, and working conditions. May design, implement, and coordinate mine safety programs.
Petroleum Engineers
Medium51.23%
Devise methods to improve oil and gas extraction and production and determine the need for new or modified tool designs. Oversee drilling and offer technical advice.
Surveying and Mapping Technicians
Medium54.28%
Perform surveying and mapping duties, usually under the direction of an engineer, surveyor, cartographer, or photogrammetrist, to obtain data used for construction, mapmaking, boundary location, mining, or other purposes. May calculate mapmaking information and create maps from source data, such as surveying notes, aerial photography, satellite data, or other maps to show topographical features, political boundaries, and other features. May verify accuracy and completeness of maps.
Soil and Plant Scientists
Medium48.11%
Conduct research in breeding, physiology, production, yield, and management of crops and agricultural plants or trees, shrubs, and nursery stock, their growth in soils, and control of pests; or study the chemical, physical, biological, and mineralogical composition of soils as they relate to plant or crop growth. May classify and map soils and investigate effects of alternative practices on soil and crop productivity.
Biologists
Medium43.26%
Research or study basic principles of plant and animal life, such as origin, relationship, development, anatomy, and functions.
Conservation Scientists
Medium46.68%
Manage, improve, and protect natural resources to maximize their use without damaging the environment. May conduct soil surveys and develop plans to eliminate soil erosion or to protect rangelands. May instruct farmers, agricultural production managers, or ranchers in best ways to use crop rotation, contour plowing, or terracing to conserve soil and water; in the number and kind of livestock and forage plants best suited to particular ranges; and in range and farm improvements, such as fencing and reservoirs for stock watering.
Atmospheric and Space Scientists
Medium54.71%
Investigate atmospheric phenomena and interpret meteorological data, gathered by surface and air stations, satellites, and radar to prepare reports and forecasts for public and other uses. Includes weather analysts and forecasters whose functions require the detailed knowledge of meteorology.
Chemists
Medium51.25%
Conduct qualitative and quantitative chemical analyses or experiments in laboratories for quality or process control or to develop new products or knowledge.
Environmental Scientists and Specialists, Including Health
Medium51.39%
Conduct research or perform investigation for the purpose of identifying, abating, or eliminating sources of pollutants or hazards that affect either the environment or public health. Using knowledge of various scientific disciplines, may collect, synthesize, study, report, and recommend action based on data derived from measurements or observations of air, food, soil, water, and other sources.
Environmental Restoration Planners
Medium49.13%
Collaborate with field and biology staff to oversee the implementation of restoration projects and to develop new products. Process and synthesize complex scientific data into practical strategies for restoration, monitoring or management.
Industrial Ecologists
Medium49.08%
Apply principles and processes of natural ecosystems to develop models for efficient industrial systems. Use knowledge from the physical and social sciences to maximize effective use of natural resources in the production and use of goods and services. Examine societal issues and their relationship with both technical systems and the environment.
Hydrologists
Medium50.06%
Research the distribution, circulation, and physical properties of underground and surface waters; and study the form and intensity of precipitation and its rate of infiltration into the soil, movement through the earth, and return to the ocean and atmosphere.
Geographers
Medium47.14%
Study the nature and use of areas of the Earth's surface, relating and interpreting interactions of physical and cultural phenomena. Conduct research on physical aspects of a region, including land forms, climates, soils, plants, and animals, and conduct research on the spatial implications of human activities within a given area, including social characteristics, economic activities, and political organization, as well as researching interdependence between regions at scales ranging from local to global.
Environmental Science and Protection Technicians, Including Health
Medium50.23%
Perform laboratory and field tests to monitor the environment and investigate sources of pollution, including those that affect health, under the direction of an environmental scientist, engineer, or other specialist. May collect samples of gases, soil, water, and other materials for testing.
Geological Technicians, Except Hydrologic Technicians
Medium52.73%
Assist scientists or engineers in the use of electronic, sonic, or nuclear measuring instruments in laboratory, exploration, and production activities to obtain data indicating resources such as metallic ore, minerals, gas, coal, or petroleum. Analyze mud and drill cuttings. Chart pressure, temperature, and other characteristics of wells or bore holes.
Hydrologic Technicians
Medium53.13%
Collect and organize data concerning the distribution and circulation of ground and surface water, and data on its physical, chemical, and biological properties. Measure and report on flow rates and ground water levels, maintain field equipment, collect water samples, install and collect sampling equipment, and process samples for shipment to testing laboratories. May collect data on behalf of hydrologists, engineers, developers, government agencies, or agriculture.
Mathematicians
Medium44.50%
Conduct research in fundamental mathematics or in application of mathematical techniques to science, management, and other fields. Solve problems in various fields using mathematical methods.
Cartographers and Photogrammetrists
Medium56.29%
Research, study, and prepare maps and other spatial data in digital or graphic form for one or more purposes, such as legal, social, political, educational, and design purposes. May work with Geographic Information Systems (GIS). May design and evaluate algorithms, data structures, and user interfaces for GIS and mapping systems. May collect, analyze, and interpret geographic information provided by geodetic surveys, aerial photographs, and satellite data.
Zoologists and Wildlife Biologists
Medium47.45%
Study the origins, behavior, diseases, genetics, and life processes of animals and wildlife. May specialize in wildlife research and management. May collect and analyze biological data to determine the environmental effects of present and potential use of land and water habitats.
Astronomers
Medium46.13%
Observe, research, and interpret astronomical phenomena to increase basic knowledge or apply such information to practical problems.
Physicists
Medium51.27%
Conduct research into physical phenomena, develop theories on the basis of observation and experiments, and devise methods to apply physical laws and theories.
Climate Change Policy Analysts
Medium47.42%
Research and analyze policy developments related to climate change. Make climate-related recommendations for actions such as legislation, awareness campaigns, or fundraising approaches.
Environmental Economists
Medium50.32%
Conduct economic analysis related to environmental protection and use of the natural environment, such as water, air, land, and renewable energy resources. Evaluate and quantify benefits, costs, incentives, and impacts of alternative options using economic principles and statistical techniques.
Anthropologists and Archeologists
Medium43.46%
Study the origin, development, and behavior of human beings. May study the way of life, language, or physical characteristics of people in various parts of the world. May engage in systematic recovery and examination of material evidence, such as tools or pottery remaining from past human cultures, in order to determine the history, customs, and living habits of earlier civilizations.
Historians
Medium48.06%
Research, analyze, record, and interpret the past as recorded in sources, such as government and institutional records, newspapers and other periodicals, photographs, interviews, films, electronic media, and unpublished manuscripts, such as personal diaries and letters.