We surveyed 1,137 geologists to better understand the work environment and required skills of a typical geologist. Here are the results.

How much intelligence is required as a geologist?

Low

High

Working as a geologist typically requires higher levels of intelligence when compared with the average career. This means that geologists are required to actively learn new things related to their discipline and solve complex problems.

Can I learn to become a geologist?

Intrinsic Talent

Acquired Talent

A career as a geologist typically depends predominantly on qualities you can gain through experience, with a small aspect of skills you are born with.

Is it easy to get a job as a geologist?

Easy

Hard

It’s typically difficult to find a job as a geologist. If you’re curious about the numbers, check out the job market for geologists.

Info

Do geologists work full-time or part-time?

88% of geologists work in full-time roles while 12% work part-time.

Is being a geologist stressful?

Low

High

Geologists tend not to find their jobs stressful, which likely contributes positively to career satisfaction.

Is being organized important as a geologist?

Low

High

Organization is not considered a particuarly important part of being a geologist.

How competitive is the workplace for geologists?

Low

High

Geologists see mild competition in their workplace.

Does being a geologist require frequent time pressure to complete tasks?

Low

High

Geologists will have to sometimes face time pressure on the job.

Are geologists allowed to express themselves creatively?

Low

High

Geologists are afforded a certain level of ability to express themselves creatively, compared to other careers.

Do geologists have control over the direction of their work?

Low

High

Geologists tend to have a set and inflexible work schedule that they are unable to deviate from too much.

Is being a geologist physically demanding?

Low

High

Being a geologist may occasionally require demanding physical activity, which may make it not a suitable career choice for everyone.

Are geologists exposed to a wide variety of work?

Low

High

While sometimes repetitive, geologists tend to have opportunities for variety in their work.

Does being a geologist require attention to detail?

Low

High

Attention to detail isn't necessarily required to be successful as a geologist.

Does being a good geologist require compassion and empathy?

Low

High

The ability to be compassion and empathetic isn't considered fundamental to success as a geologist.