What Geological and Petroleum Technicians Do

Geological and petroleum technicians provide support to scientists and engineers in exploring and extracting natural resources, such as minerals, oil, and natural gas.

Duties

Geological and petroleum technicians typically do the following:

• Compile information from reports, computer databases, and other sources for use in looking for natural resources (geological prospecting)
• Install and maintain laboratory and field equipment
• Gather geological data and samples such as rocks and soils in the field and prepare samples for laboratory analysis
• Conduct scientific tests on samples to determine their content and characteristics
• Prepare notes, sketches, and maps to display geological characteristics of the land
• Monitor well exploration and drilling activities
• Prepare reports and presentations that document their investigation and findings

In the field, geological and petroleum technicians use sophisticated equipment such as seismic instruments and gravity-measuring devices to gather geological data. They also use handtools to collect samples of rocks and other materials for scientific analysis.

Geological and petroleum technicians use computers and laboratory equipment to analyze data and samples collected in the field. They also use mapping software and geographic information systems (GIS) to catalog and plot data. With the results of their analysis, they can evaluate a site to gauge its potential for further exploration and development or they can monitor quality at an existing production site.

Geological and petroleum technicians often work on geological prospecting and surveying teams under the supervision of scientists and engineers who evaluate their work for accuracy and determine whether the site should be further explored. In addition, they might work with scientists and technicians in other fields. For example, geological and petroleum technicians might work with environmental scientists and technicians to monitor the environmental impact of drilling and other activities.

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2012-13 Edition