How to Be Economic Geologist - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Jan 22, 2020 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

How to Become

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The depletion of natural resources has had a significant economic impact on geologists. As demand for resources increases, the need for skilled economic geologists is essential to ensure that resources are being used in a sustainable and responsible manner. By carefully assessing the geological characteristics of a certain area, these professionals are able to identify potential sites for resource extraction.

This is an important process that can help maximize the amount of resources extracted and minimize the environmental impact. In addition, economic geologists can also provide advice on the development of renewable energy sources, such as solar, wind, and geothermal energy, which offer a more sustainable form of energy production.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a Bachelor's Degree. To become an economic geologist, you will need to first obtain a bachelor's degree in geology, earth science, or a related field. Students should take courses in mineralogy, petrology, geochemistry, and geophysics.
Get Work Experience. After graduating with a bachelors degree, it is important to gain work experience in the field. You can do this by getting an internship at a geological survey or geological consulting firm.
Earn a Graduate Degree. While not always required, obtaining a master's degree or doctorate in geology can give you an edge in the job market as an economic geologist.
Obtain Licensure. Depending on the state you are working in, you may need to obtain a professional license in order to practice as an economic geologist.
Develop Your Skills. As an economic geologist, you must stay up-to-date on the latest technological advances and methods of exploration. Take classes or seminars in geologic mapping, mineral deposits, and other related topics to remain current in the field.
Join Professional Organizations. Joining professional organizations such as the Society of Economic Geologists (SEG) will help you stay connected with other professionals in your field and provide networking opportunities.

In order for a geologist to stay updated and efficient, they must stay abreast of the latest developments in their field by reading industry publications, attending professional conferences and networking with colleagues. They must also pursue continuing education opportunities to expand their knowledge and stay up-to-date on the latest technologies and techniques. they must keep up with relevant laws and regulations, have a working knowledge of geographic information systems (GIS) and be familiar with the principles of data analysis and interpretation.

Finally, they must maintain a sharp focus on safety protocols, as well as a commitment to environmental stewardship. All of these elements are essential for a successful career as an economic geologist.

You may want to check Marine Geologist, Petroleum Geophysicist, and Structural Geologist for alternative.

Job Description

Evaluate potential oil and gas reserves.
Conduct geological surveys.
Monitor underground water resources.
Analyze and interpret geological data.
Develop geological models for resource evaluation.
Develop plans for resource exploitation.
Design geological maps for exploration and development.
Prepare reports on geological findings.
Detect hazardous geological conditions such as landslides, seismic activity, and flooding.
Monitor environmental and safety regulations related to resource extraction.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Understanding of geological processes and features
Knowledge of the physical and chemical properties of minerals, rocks, and sedimentary deposits
Ability to interpret geological data and maps
Expertise in mineral and energy resource exploration techniques
Understanding of economic and environmental considerations related to resource extraction and development
Proficiency with geological field mapping methods
Ability to use computer software and specialized geological equipment
Excellent communication skills
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
Detail-oriented with a high level of accuracy

Economic geologists are highly specialized professionals who use their knowledge of geology and economics to identify, assess and develop mineral and energy resources. They are essential to a range of industries and responsible for the exploration and production of minerals and other natural resources. To be successful in this field, an economic geologist must possess a number of key skills.

These include the ability to interpret geological data, identify potential resources, assess their commercial value, and understand the complexities of the extraction process. They must also have excellent communication skills to effectively present their findings to investors, policymakers, and other stakeholders. By having these skills, economic geologists are able to bring together the various elements required for the successful development of mineral and energy resources, ensuring that these resources are used in the most efficient and profitable manner.

Resource Geologist, Business Analyst, Oil and Gas, and Mining Geologist are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have with geological field work?
How do you stay up-to-date on the changing economic geology landscape?
Describe a project that you completed that demonstrates your expertise in economic geology.
What methods do you use to assess the mineral potential of a region?
What techniques do you use to analyze the economic viability of a mineral deposit?
How do you ensure the safety of yourself and others during field work?
What challenges have you encountered in past economic geology projects?
How do you collaborate with other scientists and professionals to complete projects?
What strategies do you employ to identify new mineral deposits?
How do you explain complex scientific concepts to non-scientists?

Common Tools in Industry

GIS Software. Used to create, analyze and visualize data related to geography and geology. (eg: ArcGIS)
Geophysical Software. Used to analyze and interpret data related to seismic surveys, gravity surveys and well logs. (eg: GeoDepth)
3D Modeling Software. Used to create 3D models of geological features. (eg: Petrel)
Well Logging Software. Used to analyze data collected during the drilling process. (eg: Petrophysics)
Geochemical Software. Used to analyze geochemical data. (eg: GeoChemistry)
Data Analysis Software. Used to analyze large datasets. (eg: R programming language)
Mapping Software. Used to create maps from spatial data. (eg: QGIS)
Mineral Identification Software. Used to identify minerals in rocks and soil samples. (eg: Olympus X-Ray Diffraction System)
Remote Sensing Software. Used to analyze aerial images and satellite imagery. (eg: ENVI)
Drillhole Logging Software. Used to log drillholes during exploration campaigns. (eg: Geobor S)

Professional Organizations to Know

American Institute of Professional Geologists (AIPG)
Society of Economic Geologists (SEG)
Association for Women Geoscientists (AWG)
American Association of Petroleum Geologists (AAPG)
Geological Society of America (GSA)
Mineralogical Society of America (MSA)
Association of Environmental & Engineering Geologists (AEG)
International Association for Promoting Geoethics (IAPG)
International Association for Mathematical Geosciences (IAMG)
International Association for the Study of the Earths Interior (IASPEI)

We also have Exploration Geologist, Tectonic Geologist, and Geochemist jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Mineralogy. The scientific study of minerals and how they form, their chemical composition, and their physical properties.
Petrology. The study of rocks, including their origin, composition, structure, and other physical and chemical characteristics.
Structural Geology. The study of the forces and processes that deform the Earths rocks and cause them to form distinctive patterns or structures.
Ore Deposit Modeling. A method used to study ore deposits and their characteristics in order to better understand the formation of ore bodies and their potential for economic exploitation.
Exploration Geophysics. The use of geophysical techniques to locate and identify potential ore bodies.
Stratigraphy. The study of the layers of the Earth's crust, including the age of sedimentary rocks, the origin of volcanic rocks, and the nature of unconformities.
Seismology. The study of seismic waves and how they are used to map out the Earths interior.
Hydrogeology. The study of the movement, distribution, and quality of water below the surface of the Earth.
Economic Geology. The application of geology to minimize risk and maximize profits in mineral exploration and mining operations.