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Alabama Department of Labor

Labor Market Information Division
SOC: 19-2042 Geoscientists, Except Hydrologists and Geographers
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, oceans, and its magnetic, electrical, and gravitational forces. Include mineralogists, crystallographers, paleontologists, stratigraphers, geodesists, and seismologists.
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Education: Most of these occupations require a four-year bachelor's degree, but some do not.
OJT: Employees in these occupations usually need several years of work-related experience, on-the-job training, and/or vocational training.
Tasks: Analyze and interpret geological, geochemical, or geophysical information from sources such as survey data, well logs, bore holes, or aerial photos. 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. Prepare geological maps, cross-sectional diagrams, charts, or reports concerning mineral extraction, land use, or resource management, using results of fieldwork or laboratory research. Analyze and interpret geological data, using computer software. 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. Assess ground or surface water movement to provide advice regarding issues such as waste management, route and site selection, or the restoration of contaminated sites. Locate and estimate probable natural gas, oil, or mineral ore deposits or underground water resources, using aerial photographs, charts, or research or survey results. Locate and review research articles or environmental, historical, or technical reports. Communicate geological findings by writing research papers, participating in conferences, or teaching geological science at universities.
License: This applicant must call or go to the State Board of Licensure for Professional Geologists website to retrieve the required application forms. The completed application packet must filled out online, printed and mailed to the State Board of Licensure for Professional Geologists. Biennial License Fee: $150.00 Biennial Renewal Fee: $150.00 New Applicant Fee: $150.00 Fundamentals of Geology Examination Fee: $150.00 Practice of Geology Examination Fee: $250.00
Outlook: Good
Alabama Employment Outlook
Alabama Wage Data
Hourly Wage   Annual Wage
Entry $22.03   Entry $45,811.00
Mean $36.14   Mean $75,163.00
Experience $43.20 Experience $89,834.00

The data is based on the May 2017 Occupation Employment Survey employment and wage estimate file. The wages have been aged using the most current ECI factors reflecting wages as of June 2018.

Alabama Projections
Estimated Employment 2016Projected Employment 2026Annual Average OpeningsAnnual Growth Rate
29032030.98
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Occupational Videos
19-2042.00 Geoscientists, Except Hydrologists and Geographers