Geologist and Geophysicist

• Diploma of Geoscience

The very ground we stand on is more than just dirt and gravel! The complex nature and components of the earth's crust are exactly what geologists and geophysicists study, albeit in different ways.

Geologists study the minerals, rocks, underground water deposits and fossils in the earth's crust using a vast array of techniques. They may collect and interpret rock and soil samples and conduct geological surveys and field studies using high tech equipment, such as computers, electron microscopes, satellite imagery and analogue modelling equipment. They can also locate and value deposits of minerals and participate in the study of natural disasters including earthquakes and land slides.

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To become a geologist or a geophysicist, you need to hold tertiary qualifications. There are 72% who have Bachelor Degrees, 19% who have Postgraduate Degrees and 6% who have no post school qualifications.

TAFE SA offers the Diploma of Geoscience.

Flinders University offers a Bachelor of Science (Earth Sciences).

The University of Adelaide also offers a Bachelor of Science majoring in the following areas: Geology, Geophysics or Environmental Geosciences.

The University of South Australia offers a Master of Applied Science in Geology.

Employment can be sought from mineral and petroleum companies as well as consulting firms specialising in resource exploration, engineering or the environment. Geologists and geophysicists are also employed by governments, research laboratories and universities. Current job prospects are below average for both occupational groups. Employment is closely linked to the level of mining and petroleum exploration activity, which is affected by the price of mineral and energy commodities. It must be highlighted that the rise and fall of commodity prices is cyclical and that as mining activity increases, so will the demand for geologists and geophysicists.

For further information, contact:

Department of Primary Industries and Resources, Office of Minerals and Energy Resources
GPO Box 1671 Adelaide SA 5001
Ph: (08) 8226 0222
Fax: (08) 8226 0476
Email: pirsa.minerals@saugov.sa.gov.au
Internet Address: http://www.pir.sa.gov.au

Geological Society of Australia
7th Floor 301 George St Sydney NSW 2000
Ph: (02) 9290 2194
Fax: (02) 9290 2198
Email: publicity@gsa.org.au
Internet Address: http://www.gsa.org.au

Minerals Council of Australia
PO Box 4497 Kingston ACT 2604
Ph: (02) 6233 0600
Fax: (02) 6233 0699
Email: info@minerals.org.au
Internet Address: http://www.minerals.org.au/careers

Mining

To be updated.

"My work as a geologist has taken me to many interesting and spectacular locations, including Hawaii, Canary Islands, New Zealand, Canadian Arctic and the North American Rockies. Many other people would have to pay a lot of money to see some of the places and sights that I am paid to see!''. The spectrum of roles that geologists can undertake is as diverse as the minerals they study. Exploration geologists, for example, search for vital clues from the earth's surface that indicate where particular resources may lie. Geomorphologists try to restore to its original state land that was previously used for mining. Finding solutions to environmental problems such as land degradation and irresponsible waste disposal is what drives environmental geologists. Hydrogeologists apply the results from their studies in areas of water resources and systems management.

Geophysicists apply the principles of physics and mathematics to their study of the earth. They examine such things as the electrical, gravitational, magnetic and seismic properties of rocks. Such analysis allows them to evaluate engineering constraints or the environmental impacts of proposed mining or development projects. They conduct geophysical surveys using satellite imaging and electronic measuring equipment designed for ground, airborne or marine operations. By far the largest number of jobs currently are for exploration geophysicists, who search for minerals, groundwater and oil and gas. However, as public interest in the environment grows, there is a developing field in the area of environmental investigation and monitoring of oil and gas fields, as well as greenhouse gas disposal.

Geologists and geophysicists work in laboratories, offices and in the field. They may work independently or as members of a mixed team of professional and non-professional staff. They may have contact with the public, especially if needing permission to go onto private land. Fieldwork can involve spending time in remote desert, tropical or Antarctic/arctic regions. The hours of work can be irregular and it may be necessary to spend long periods away from home.

They must enjoy technical and engineering activities. It is essential that they practice a high level of occupational safety. They need to be able to work as part of a team as well as work independently. They also need to be physically fit and prepared to work outdoors in a range of environments.

Excellent mathematical, scientific, research and analytical skills are the foundation skills for geologists and geophysicists. A high level of computer knowledge is required. This is particularly true for geophysicists, as they are required to use interpretive software programs to develop geological models that simulate the results obtained from surveys. A willingness to travel to and work in the most desolate locations, both within and beyond national borders is also essential. As geologists and geophysicists often collaborate with their counterparts in these distant locations, an adaptive nature and competent communication skills are also vital. Communication skills also help when working with those from allied professions, such as engineers, scientists, land owners and government officials.

Graduate geologists and geophysicists have annual starting salaries of approximately $50,000 to $70,000. An experienced geologist or geophysicist may earn in excess of $80,000 per annum.

For further information about all TAFE SA Courses, phone 1800 882 661 or email tafeinfo@saugov.sa.gov.au