In these uncertain times, Science, technology,
engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields are all the rage among job seekers
looking for stable and timeless careers. In fact, employment in science and engineering occupations
was expected to grow by 18.7% between 2010 and 2020, across all STEM fields.
While jobs in the physical sciences aren’t growing as rapidly as computer and
mathematical scientist occupations, plenty of opportunities exist for those who hold a geology degree.
While many laymen might think geology is just the study of rocks, geologists know that the field has much more to offer, and prospective job seekers with an interest in the Earth’s composition have numerous sub-disciplines to choose from. Some geological jobs allow you to explore outer space while others keep you firmly rooted on Earth, creating maps or studying the topography of glaciers. Let’s explore five little-known geological jobs that promote a greater understanding of Earth and its history.
1.
Astrogeologist
Humanity has long looked to the stars for
inspiration, and today’s innovators are working hard to make space tourism a
reality. Astrogeologists are among the hard-working professionals who keep the
dream of space exploration alive. It’s likely that Richard Branson has at least
one astrogeologist on his payroll at Virgin Galactic, a spaceflight company
founded in 2004.
Interestingly, however, astrogeology doesn’t have a direct connection to spaceflight per se. Instead, those within the discipline of astrogeology study the growth and evolution of celestial bodies including planets, asteroids, comets, and moons. Astrogeology is also known as planetary geology, and trained astrogeologists may create planetary maps, conduct the remote sensing of celestial surfaces, and more.
2.
Cartographer
Astrogeology has much in common with
cartography, as both disciplines involve exploration and are deeply rooted in
human history. Cartographers are responsible for making maps and ensuring their
precision. Whether those maps are in paper or digital form, accuracy is
essential to a cartographer’s job.
Cartographers should hold at least a bachelor’s degree in mathematics, according to Maryville University. Further, “a combination of experience and/or further education in cartography, geology, or civil engineering” is vital for map-making professionals. And make no mistake: The competition is fierce in the realm of cartography, which is ranked No. 4 in the U.S. News and World Report’s list of best engineering jobs.
3.
Glaciologist
Climate change is directly linked to geology,
as the negative effects of the phenomenon become increasingly apparent. It’s no
secret that the Earth’s glaciers are melting at a rapid rate, and glaciologists
are on the front lines of the phenomenon. Glaciologists study the formation and movement of glaciers,
both arctic and alpine, as well as ice caps and sheets.
While collaboration with other glaciologists and professionals is part of the job, plenty of solo work is involved. Furthermore, a glaciologist’s office is often in a remote location, and jackets are always required outdoors.
4.
Petroleum Geologist
If you’re interested in exploring coastlines
and cultivating sustainability, you may be interested in working as a petroleum
geologist, arguably the occupation least involved with actual rocks on this
list. But make no mistake, this dynamic and lucrative occupation is still
firmly rooted in STEM and in the field of geology.
Petroleum geologists work to determine the location and amount of combustible fuel in a particular area. The job toes the line between land and sea, and the job requirements are a bit more intensive than in some other geological disciplines. Generally speaking, a master’s degree is preferred for all prospective petroleum geologist candidates, along with appropriate certification such as the Certification for Petroleum Geology (CPG).
5.
Geomorphologist
The Earth is made up of countless components,
some of which can change the very nature of our planet’s surface. The study of
the way in which the Earth’s surface is morphed and altered by oceans, rivers,
air, mountains, and beyond is called geomorphology. Typically, geomorphologists
specialize in a single area such as sand, rivers, or rock as well as mineral
formations.
Information gathered by geomorphologists is used in a variety of applications such as healthcare. Minerals and rocks aren’t always as innocuous as they seem. Asbestos, for example, is a naturally occurring silicate mineral commonly used in construction materials. It’s also extremely dangerous, and prolonged exposure to asbestos fibers can cause cancer including an aggressive lung cancer known as mesothelioma.
Geomorphologists are integral to the mesothelioma prevention process by continuing to study the forms and processes of asbestos. Searching for mineral-based alternatives and regularly assessing asbestos risks at job sites may also be part of the job of a trained geomorphologist.
Final
Thoughts
Studying rock formations is just the beginning
for today’s geologists. Workers in the versatile discipline of geology might
head to Antarctica to study glaciers, observe and map out a changing coastline,
or help plan a major oil pipeline. No matter the geologic field you hope to
specialize in, a strong background in STEM subjects can help you stand out.