Geological Technicians, Except Hydrologic Technicians
Life, Physical, and Social Science
Work happens in laboratories, at drill sites, and on survey or mine trips. Solid and fluid samples, including mud and drill cuttings, are collected, prepared, and run through lab tests; pressure, temperature, and other well or borehole readings are charted. Notes, sketches, maps, and cross-sections get drawn up, equipment is adjusted or repaired, and earlier reports are read to support prospecting. The job can include exploratory drilling, well logging, or underground mine surveys. It tends to suit people who like sample testing, field travel, and keeping orderly logs that scientists and engineers can use.
Annual Median Wage in Field (2025)
$53'350
Median Wage Market Position
$53'350
What you might do
- Analyze rock, mineral, and fluid samples in the lab
- Prepare mud, cuttings, and fluid samples for testing
- Join field surveys, drilling, and mine mapping work
- Chart pressure, temperature, and other well readings
- Draw geological maps, sketches, and cross-sections
- Adjust and repair testing and survey equipment
Skills that matter
- Analyzing mud and drill cuttings
- Charting well pressure and temperature
- Preparing geological maps and cross-sections
- Logging samples and field survey data
- Drafting technical reports on sample analysis
- Repairing laboratory and field instruments
AI & the future of this role
Instrument readings and sample analysis may become more automated, reducing time spent on routine data reduction. Field collection, well-site judgment, and interpreting messy natural conditions still tend to require people on site.
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Includes O*NET® 30.3 Database information by USDOL/ETA under CC BY 4.0; modified by LostInCareer. Wage/outlook from BLS. Attribution details