Pursuing A Career As An Engineering Geologist

If you are someone who enjoys the fields of geology and engineering, and you also have a concern for the health and safety of the general public, a career as an engineering geologist might be the perfect fit for you. If you have ever thought about pursuing this type of career, here are the answers to some questions you might have.

What Kind of Schooling is Required?

Any type of career in engineering requires strong math and science skills. When pursuing the appropriate type education, a bachelor's degree in engineering is usually required when pursuing a career as an engineering geologist. Minors and electives should focus on taking courses in environmental science and geology.

While a Master's degree is typically not required for entry level positions, it can be helpful for getting better and higher-paying jobs down the road. Engineering geologists will most likely have to pass certain exams in order to attain proper licensing. These exams and licensing requirements vary from state to state.

What Types of Skills Are Needed?

Some important qualities that successful engineering geologists possess include:

• Analytical skills
• The ability to make important decisions
• The ability to think logically
• Problem-solving skills for complex projects
• Strong writing skills for preparing reports and clear instructions

Engineering geologists will also need the proper skills and education to do things such as collect and classify rock and groundwater samples, know and understand laws and regulations pertaining to environmental investigations and hazardous waste, and evaluate potential hazards such as landslides and seismic activity.

Where Do Engineering Geologists Work?

Engineering geologists do things like help determine if the bedrock underneath the ground will be able to support heavy structures and deem an area safe for building. They also help to determine if it is safe for people to live or work in particular areas. These types of geologists normally work in areas of civil engineering but can also work in the industries of oil and gas extraction and mining operations.

Talk with the experts at a company like Geo Plus Partners if you have specific questions about what engineering geologists do.

What is the Salary and Job Outlook?

The career of an engineering geologist falls under the category of mining and geologic engineers. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there were 8,300 employees working in this particular field. It is expected to grow by 6% by the year 2024. The average salary is $94,040 per year which works out to be $45.21 an hour. For engineering geologists who choose to work in the oil and gas extraction industry, the average salary in 2015 was $132,660.