Geological Technicians, Except Hydrologic Technicians

Assist scientists or engineers in the use of electronic, sonic, or nuclear measuring instruments in laboratory, exploration, and production activities to obtain data indicating resources such as metallic ore, minerals, gas, coal, or petroleum. Analyze mud and drill cuttings. Chart pressure, temperature, and other characteristics of wells or bore holes.

How to read this profile

BLS projects U.S. employment for Geological Technicians, Except Hydrologic Technicians to increase by 3.6% between 2024 and 2034, from 7,300 to 7,600 jobs. Its estimate of 1,000 annual openings includes replacement needs, so it does not represent current vacancies, contract postings, or freelance demand. The wage ($53,350), education (Associate's degree), and related experience (None) figures on this profile describe typical U.S. employees. O*NET skills describe the occupation; they do not assess an individual worker's proficiency.

Base employment (2024)

7,300

Projected employment (2034)

7,600

Projected change (2024–2034)

4%

Annual openings (projected average)

1,000

Pay & Preparation
Loading wage data…
Loading wage data…

$53,350

Associate's degree

None

Moderate-term on-the-job training

Essential Skills

Reading Comprehension (3.75/5) • Critical Thinking (3.5/5) • Writing (3.25/5) • Monitoring (3.25/5) • Time Management (3.25/5) • Judgment and Decision Making (3.12/5)

O*NET describes occupational requirements; these ratings do not measure current job-posting frequency or an individual worker’s proficiency.

BLS projections are long-term estimates; annual openings include growth and replacement needs and are not current vacancies.

Loading labor-market data…
Loading labor-market data…
Loading labor-market data…

Market data tells you what is happening.
SmartBid shows you where you fit.

Evaluate opportunities using demand, competition, client quality, and your experience—then focus your effort where you have the strongest chance to win.

Find my best opportunities