Earth Sciences
Career Options

The recent high demand for Earth Sciences and Geology graduates has translated into a wide range of employment opportunities with high starting salaries. Earth Scientists and Geologists are recognised and employed by government, semi-government and resource orientated industries worldwide. As we progress into the 21st Century, Earth Science professionals will play an increasingly vital role in our community.

The interrelated nature of the major disciplines within Earth Sciences offers flexibility and the prospect to pursue many other areas of interest, such as niche market jobs which combine Earth Sciences with other specialised skills such as computing, teaching, business management and environmental science.

There is a range of career opportunities open to a keen and successful graduate. The mining and exploration industries are traditionally large employers of geologists in Australia, but there are many other industries and professions that today draw upon the expertise of geologists. The technological advances of the past two decades have greatly increased the demand for many of the Earth's natural minerals which are essential components in manufacturing and processing of the goods which we all use. The discovery of these mineral resources, their management and the search for new natural resources, are all dependent on the geologist. Environmental Scientists are also in demand as it is important as scientists who know and understand about the Earth, its resources, their management and the natural environment.

Graduates in Geology may find employment as exploration or mining geologists, geological survey, petroleum geologists or research scientists in industry or government research institutions. In Environment or Earth Science graduate positions may be typically available as environmental consultants, as well as in education and environmental management (e.g. mine site rehabilitation, soil conservation, land degradation, contaminated site remediation and groundwater studies).

A detailed overview listing employers of Earth Science graduates, sample job titles, societies and associations, and a range of other relevant organisations can be downloaded from the Careers Service: Linking Your Study to Employment Options site (Earth Science Major).