Geologists study the composition, structure, and other physical aspects of Earth. With the use of sophisticated instruments and by analyzing the composition of the earth and water, they study Earth's geologic past and present to find supplies of natural resources, such as groundwater, metals and other minerals, petroleum, and coal.
Specifically, Geologists read and interpret geologic maps and documents. They collect and interpret data from borehole studies, soil assessments, and fault studies. They research information on the identification of geological formations, foundations, slope stabilization, retaining wall plan development and right-of-way development, and prepare their reports and geologic maps based on their findings.
They determine the potential impact of federal, state, and local regulations related to the projected exploration and usage of given geological structures. During this process, they describe and classify soil and rocks and develop soil and geology reports. In a process known as geologic surface mapping, they develop detailed 3-D geologic models using mine-modeling software.
On mining projects, they frequently are responsible for mine planning and development, exploration programs, property acquisitions, and resource estimations. In these cases, they develop/coordinate exploration drill plans, and work with federal, state, and local agencies on permits for the drilling plans. Throughout, they develop budgets for and track all associated exploration costs. In the planning for excavation of coal mines, they coordinate and evaluate slope stability studies to determine pit wall design parameters, and coordinate, and analyze pit wall monitoring programs.
They assist mining engineers in the mine design, including the scheduling for the expansion of the mine with its associated grade and tonnage reports. They help in designing haul roads used in the extraction and delivery of mined coal, and develop haul simulations. They aid in the preparation of presentation quality maps and documents for federal and state agencies.
Geologists need to be familiar with underground drilling, blasting, rock handling, and ground control methods. In all these processes, they review and apply appropriate geophysical standards in implementing their designed geophysical survey. They interface with mining engineers and other field staff during and following the completion of such geophysical surveys.
Some Geologists may become involved in the issues of air quality in the mining environment, becoming familiar with dust sampling and methane and carbon monoxide detection procedures as outlined in the federal Mine Safety and Health Administration regulations. In this capacity, they may complete the federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration course in Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response.
According to the U.S. Department of Labor median annual earnings of Geologists (geoscientists) were US Dollars 68,730 in May 2004. The middle 50 percent earned between US Dollars 49,260 and US Dollars 98,380. The lowest 10 percent earned less than US Dollars 37,700, and the highest 10 percent earned more than US Dollars 130,750. According to the National Association of Colleges and Employers, beginning salary offers in July 2005 for graduates with bachelor's degrees in geology and related sciences averaged US Dollars 39,365.
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