GEF

Unit 4   |  The Global Ecosystem 96 CAREER FOCUS: GEOSCIENTIST Education: Most geoscientist jobs require at least a bachelor’s degree and many require a Master’s degree. In several states, geoscientists may need a license to offer their services to the public. Median Salary (2015): $89,700. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), geoscientists study the physical aspects of the Earth, such as its composition, structure, and processes, to learn about its past, present, and future. Many geoscientists work in environmental protection and preservation, and are involved in projects to clean up and reclaim land. Some specialize in a particular aspect of the Earth, such as its oceans. Most geoscientists split their time between working in offices and laboratories, and working outdoors. Doing research and investigations outdoors is commonly called fieldwork and can require irregular working hours and extensive travel to remote locations. Typical job duties include: ■■ Planning and carrying out field studies, in which they visit locations to collect samples and conduct surveys. ■■ Analyzing aerial photographs, well logs, rock samples, and other data sources to locate deposits of natural resources and estimate their size. ■■ Conducting laboratory tests on samples collected in the field. ■■ Making geological maps and charts. ■■ Preparing written scientific reports. ■■ Presenting their findings to clients, colleagues, and other interested parties. ■■ Reviewing reports and research done by other scientists. For more information on this and other careers in Sustainability, go to bls.gov/oco/.