UNIT GROUP 2112 GEOLOGISTS AND GEOPHYSICISTS
GEOLOGISTS AND GEOPHYSICISTS study physical aspects of the earth to determine its structure and composition, locate and advise on the extraction of minerals, petroleum or ground water; and detect, monitor and forecast seismic, magnetic, electrical, thermal and oceanographic activity.
Skill Level:
The entry requirement for this unit group is a bachelor degree or higher qualification. In some instances relevant experience is required in addition to the formal qualification.
Tasks Include:
- conducting studies of the structure, nature and formation of the earth's crust and the minerals contained in it
- studying and dating fossils and rock strata to develop knowledge of the evolution and biology of life forms, or to assess their commercial applications
- studying the effects of natural events such as erosion, sedimentation, earthquakes and volcanic activity on the formation of the earth's surface and sea beds
- examining and analysing geological specimens, rock cores, cuttings and samples using optical, chemical, electronic and mechanical techniques
- conducting surveys of variations in the earth's gravitational and magnetic fields to determine its physical features
- investigating the propagation of seismic waves to determine the structure and stability of the earth's mantle and crust
- studying the causes of earthquakes and other stress states of the earth's crust
- performing laboratory and field studies, and airborne, ground and drill hole surveys
Occupations:
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