Geoscientist | Average UK Salary & Outlook

Geoscientists study the Earth's structure and formation, and analyse rocks to explore its natural mineral and energy resources.

Typical task
Working hours
Attractive values

Analyze and interpret geological, geochemical, or geophysical information from sources such as survey data, well logs, bore holes, or aerial photos.
Plan or conduct geological, geochemical, or geophysical field studies or surveys, sample collection, or drilling and testing programs used to collect data for research or application.
Prepare geological maps,

Analyze and interpret geological, geochemical, or geophysical information from sources such as survey data, well logs, bore holes, or aerial photos.
Plan or conduct geological, geochemical, or geophysical field studies or surveys, sample collection, or drilling and testing programs used to collect data for research or application.
Prepare geological maps, cross-sectional diagrams, charts, or reports concerning mineral extraction, land use, or resource management, using results of fieldwork or laboratory research.
Analyze and interpret geological data, using computer software.
Investigate the composition, structure, or history of the Earth's crust through the collection, examination, measurement, or classification of soils, minerals, rocks, or fossil remains.
Assess ground or surface water movement to provide advice on issues such as waste management, route and site selection, or the restoration of contaminated sites.
Locate and estimate probable natural gas, oil, or mineral ore deposits or underground water resources, using aerial photographs, charts, or research or survey results.
Locate and review research articles or environmental, historical, or technical reports.
Communicate geological findings by writing research papers, participating in conferences, or teaching geological science at universities.
Measure characteristics of the Earth, such as gravity or magnetic fields, using equipment such as seismographs, gravimeters, torsion balances, or magnetometers.
Conduct geological or geophysical studies to provide information for use in regional development, site selection, or development of public works projects.
Identify risks for natural disasters, such as mudslides, earthquakes, or volcanic eruptions.
Design geological mine maps, monitor mine structural integrity, or advise and monitor mining crews.
Advise construction firms or government agencies on dam or road construction, foundation design, land use, or resource management.
Inspect construction projects to analyze engineering problems, using test equipment or drilling machinery.
Develop applied software for the analysis and interpretation of geological data.
Identify deposits of construction materials suitable for use as concrete aggregates, road fill, or other applications.
Collaborate with medical or health researchers to address health problems related to geological materials or processes.
Determine methods to incorporate geomethane or methane hydrates into global energy production or evaluate the potential environmental impacts of such incorporation.
Determine ways to mitigate the negative consequences of mineral dust dispersion.
Develop strategies for more environmentally friendly resource extraction and reclamation.
Develop ways to capture or use gases burned off as waste during oil production processes.
Identify new sources of platinum group elements for industrial applications, such as automotive fuel cells or pollution abatement systems.
Identify possible sites for carbon sequestration projects.
Locate potential sources of geothermal energy.
Provide advice on the safe siting of new nuclear reactor projects or methods of nuclear waste management.
Research geomechanical or geochemical processes to be used in carbon sequestration projects.
Research ways to reduce the ecological footprint of increasingly prevalent megacities.
Review work plans to determine the effectiveness of activities for mitigating soil or groundwater contamination.
Study historical climate change indicators found in locations such as ice sheets or rock formations to develop climate change models.

Average salary
37,462 GBP *
per year

Average salary for Geoscientist

Big gender gap

40,694 GBP
30,840 GBP

Average salary for full-time Geoscientist

Showing:

37,462 GBP
30,840 GBP
40,694 GBP

Salary over time for Geoscientist

Salary for this role has increased over time

35,826 GBP
37,661 GBP
36,632 GBP
39,337 GBP
38,945 GBP
36,852 GBP
37,462 GBP
37,462 GBP
39,645 GBP

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Future outlook for Geoscientists

Balanced outlook

9 000+ jobs available

Balanced outlook

1% yearly wage growth (on average)

Very good outlook

26% chance of automation in the future

Which qualifications do I need?

Find out what you need to know in order to become a Geoscientist and the highest average level of education for people in this role.

In terms of people already doing this job:

50% of people in this role have a Bachelor's degree
25% of people in this role have a Master's degree
13% of people in this role have a Doctoral degree

You'll need:

the ability to use, repair and maintain machines and tools
to be thorough and pay attention to detail
customer service skills
the ability to use your initiative
knowledge of building and construction
analytical thinking skills
patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
persistence and determination
to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device

Get the right qualification to begin your journey to becoming a Geoscientist

Geology

What soft skills do I need?

Rise above the competition by brushing up on the 5 most important soft skills you need to become a Geoscientist.

Critical Thinking Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems

Reading Comprehension Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents

Science Using scientific rules and methods to solve problems

Speaking Talking to others to convey information effectively

Active Listening Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times

What technical skills do I need?

Technical skills are programmes, softwares and things you need to know in order to be a successful Geoscientist. Check that you know:

Analytical or scientific software EarthWorks Downhole Explorer; RockWare Geochemist's Workbench GWB; Seismic Micro-Technology KINGDOM; The MathWorks MATLAB

Computer aided design CAD software

Data base user interface and query software GeoPLUS Petra; Geosoft DAP server; Microsoft Access

Graphics or photo imaging software ACD Systems Canvas; Adobe Systems Adobe Photoshop

Map creation software ESRI ArcGIS software

Improve your skills today

Geology

Analytical Thinking Job requires analyzing information and using logic to address work-related issues and problems. Integrity Job requires being honest and ethical. Attention to Detail Job requires being careful about detail and thorough in completing work tasks. Initiative Job requires a willingness to take on responsibilities and challenges. Persistence Job requires persistence in the face of obstacles.

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Geoscientist | Average UK Salary & Outlook

Salary statistics

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Future outlook for Geoscientists

Geoscientist - Your future job?

Which qualifications do I need?

What soft skills do I need?

What technical skills do I need?

Things to highlight for your Geoscientist interview

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