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Geoscientist, Geoscience Professional, Petroleum Geologist, Physical Scientist, Planetary Geologist, Sedimentologist (carbonate / clastic), Stratigrapher, Surficial Geologist, Volcanologist
In Canada, the federal government groups and organizes occupations based on a National Occupational Classification (NOC) system. This alis occupation may not reflect the entire NOC group it is part of. Data for the NOC group can apply across multiple occupations.
The NOC system is updated every 5 years to reflect changes in the labour market. Government forms and labour market data may group and refer to an occupation differently, depending on the system used.
Here is how this occupation has been classified over time.
2006 NOC
2006 NOC-S
2011 NOC
2016 NOC
2021 NOC
2023 OaSIS
Geologists study:
Geologists conduct geological surveys, subsurface studies, and field studies. They record and interpret geological information from sources that include:
From fieldwork and lab research, they prepare geological maps, cross-sectional diagrams, and reports. They also conduct 3D and 4D modelling of geological data.
They use a wide array of instruments in their work, such as:
They work with computers in both the field and the office.
Geologists also:
They work in teams with:
Geologists may work in various areas.
Coal geologists locate and classify coal resources. They determine their fit for coal mining and coal bed methane (gas) development.
Computing geologists develop software such as database systems, geographic information systems, or statistics packages. They use it to study data and information.
Economic geologists locate, rate, and classify mineral deposits.
Engineering geologists study geological data. They advise government agencies and construction companies. This helps with choosing locations for buildings, dams, highways, airfields, and tunnels. They work with other engineers in oil, gas, and mineral exploration and production. They also work in environmental cleanups.
Environmental geologists assess the environmental impact of the development or use of mineral, hydrocarbon (oil, gas, coal), and water resources. They help to restore disturbed land to its original condition (reclamation). Some reclamation projects increase the financial value of the land.
Geochemists study the chemical makeup and interactions of minerals, rocks, and fluids. They strive to understand the distribution and migration of materials in Earth’s crust.
Geochronologists determine the age of rocks. They do this by studying the radioactive decay of key elements.
Geomorphologists examine landforms and processes such as erosion and glaciation. These processes cause Earth’s surface to change.
Hydrogeologists study the properties, amount, and makeup of groundwater and formation waters. They may search for potable water or address environmental issues. These issues can include:
To learn more, see the Hydrologist occupational profile.
Marine geologists study coastal and marine environments and their evolution. They explore ocean basins for mineral and petroleum potential.
Mineralogists study, identify, and classify minerals according to their makeup and structure. They study the properties of minerals. They also develop industrial and environmental uses.
Mining geologists locate and study Earth’s mineral and rock resources. They suggest ways to remove them safely and efficiently.
Paleontologists study fossils for a variety of purposes, such as to:
Petrographers describe and classify rocks, most often after a microscopic study.
Petroleum geologists determine the geological characteristics of an underground reservoir and the fluids in it. This helps them decide where to drill for oil and gas. It helps Petroleum Engineers optimize the extraction process. Petroleum geologists study research gathered from:
Planetary geologists study the nature and history of planets and satellites in the solar system.
Sedimentologists study the processes that result in forming sedimentary rocks. They apply this knowledge to help locate coal, petroleum, and other types of mineral resources.
Shale-oil and shale-gas geologists locate and study oil and gas resources in very low permeability reservoirs and unconventional reservoirs.
Stratigraphers study arrangements of sedimentary rock layers. They do this by examining the fossil and geological makeup of boreholes and diamond drill cores. This helps locate coal and petroleum.
Structural geologists study the geometry and elements of brittle and plastic rock deformation. For example, they might study the evolution of mountain building. Or they might consider how to use earth structures in resource extraction.
Surficial geologists study sediments and rock layers close to Earth’s surface. Their findings apply to:
Volcanologists study active and dormant volcanoes. They predict eruptions to minimize potential damage. They learn about the physics and chemistry of volcanic processes.
Well-site geologists work closely with drilling crews in the field. They make sure wells penetrate target zones. They also ensure coring samples are taken at required intervals.
In Alberta, most geologists work in the energy industries. They spend much of their time working in office settings. They may spend some time at rig sites.
Mineral and mining geologists are more likely to do fieldwork. Some geologists spend 3 to 6 months a year doing fieldwork. They live and work in remote locations and cover large areas. They may travel by foot, float plane, helicopter, boat, all-terrain vehicle, snowmobile, or truck. They may work underground part of the time. Those who work in international exploration travel a lot.
Physical requirements for geologists vary with the type of work. Geologists in labs may do little or no heavy lifting. Those collecting samples in the field may need to lift items weighing up to 20 kilograms. Collecting samples can involve a lot of walking.
In Alberta, this occupation is part of 1 or more 2006 National Occupational Classification (NOC) groups. If there are multiple related NOC groups, select a NOC heading to learn about each one.
Interest in synthesizing information to plan and direct field studies, drilling and testing programs, and seismic, electromagnetic, magnetic, gravimetric, radiometric, radar and other remote sensing programs to extend knowledge of the earth; in assessing deposits and geological age; and in determining characteristics and suitability of materials for use as concrete aggregates, road fill and other applications
Interest in precision working with instruments to identify deposits of construction materials; and in participating in remote sensing programs and in analyses of core samples, drill cuttings and rock samples to identify chemical, mineral, hydrocarbon and biological composition
Interest in consulting to recommend the acquisition of lands, exploration and mapping programs, and mine development; and in advising in areas such as waste management, route and site selection and the restoration of contaminated sites; may supervise and co-ordinate well drilling, completion and workovers, and mining activities
To identify or change your interest codes, complete the Interests Exercise in CAREERinsite.
The interest code helps you figure out if you’d like to work in a particular occupation.
It’s based on the Canadian Work Preference Inventory (CWPI), which measures 5 occupational interests: Directive, Innovative, Methodical, Objective, and Social.
Each set of 3 interest codes for this NOC group is listed in order of importance.
A code in capital letters means it’s a strong fit for the occupation.
A code in all lowercase letters means the fit is weaker.
To fill in or change the values for your abilities, complete the Abilities Exercise in CAREERinsite.
A Quick Guide
You are born with abilities that help you process certain types of information and turn it into action. These abilities influence which skills you can learn more easily.
The abilities or aptitudes shown for this NOC group come from the General Aptitude Test Battery (GATB). The GATB measures 9 aptitudes. It groups them into 3 categories: mental, visual, and physical.
The abilities scores range from 1 to 5, with 5 being stronger.
Geologists need:
They should enjoy:
In Alberta, this occupation is part of 1 or more 2016 National Occupational Classification (NOC) groups. If there are multiple related NOC groups, select a NOC heading to learn about each one.
This chart shows which job skills are currently in highest demand for this occupational group. It was created using this occupation's 24 most recent Alberta job postings, collected between Dec 23, 2021 and Dec 20, 2024.
Review these skills to learn:
| Health benefits: Health care plan | 19 |
|---|---|
| Health benefits: Dental plan | 18 |
| Financial benefits: Bonus | 16 |
| Tasks: Plan, direct and participate in analyses of geological, geochemical and geophysical survey data, well logs and other test results, maps, notes and cross sections | 15 |
| Tasks: Identify and advise on anticipated natural risks | 15 |
| Construction Specialization: Team player | 14 |
| Construction Specialization: Flexibility | 14 |
| Tasks: Plan, direct and participate in geological, geochemical and geophysical field studies, drilling and geological testing programs | 13 |
| Health benefits: Vision care benefits | 13 |
| Work Setting: Consulting geology, geophysics or engineering firm | 13 |
Geologists need at least a bachelor’s (B.Sc.) degree in geology. Some employers prefer a master’s degree (M.Sc.). Geology researchers must have a doctoral (PhD) degree.
They must do ongoing professional development to keep up to date. They need knowledge of:
The following schools offer programs and courses that meet this occupation’s educational requirements. Other eligible programs and courses may be available.
The following schools offer programs or courses that are related to this occupation but are not required to enter the field.
To expand or narrow your program options, visit Post-Secondary Programs and start your search with:
Completing a program does not guarantee entrance into an occupation. Before enrolling in an education program, prospective students should look into various sources for education options and employment possibilities. For example, contact associations and employers in this field.
Certain professional titles or duties within this occupation are protected by provincial legislation. Requirements vary if you use these titles or perform these duties.
The related legislation is shown below. If there are multiple related legislations, select a certification heading to learn about each one.
Geologists examine rocks from Earth’s surface and subsurface to study the nature and history of the earth’s crust. Geophysicists study the water, surface, and internal composition of Earth.
Before 2014, APEGA awarded the titles of professional geologist and professional geophysicist. These titles remain valid for those who hold them. New applicants can only receive the title of professional geoscientist.
Under Alberta’s Engineering and Geoscience Professions Act [pdf] and Engineering and Geoscience Professions General Regulation [pdf], you must register as a member of the Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of Alberta (APEGA) to practice as a Professional Geoscientist or engage in the practice of geoscience.
You do not have to register if you work under the direct supervision of a professional geoscientist and do not call yourself a Professional Geoscientist.
For information on what you need and other details, visit the certification profile Geoscientist.
Source: 2021-2025 Alberta Regional Occupational Demand Outlook
Geologists work for:
This section shows the industries where the majority of people in this occupation work. The data is based on the 2016 Census.
In Alberta, this occupation is part of 1 or more 2016 National Occupational Classification (NOC) groups.
Geoscientists and oceanographers
2016 NOC: 2113
86.0% of people in this occupational group work in:
NOC groups often include several related occupations. Although there is labour market data for the larger NOC group, this occupation makes up only a part of that group. It means data for this occupation may be different than the data shown. For examples, see Note.
This section shows the short-term demand forecasted for this occupation in Alberta over a 3-year period. It also shows the number of people employed in the occupation.
In Alberta, this occupation is part of 1 or more 2021 National Occupational Classification (NOC) groups.
Source: 2023-2025 Alberta Short-Term Employment Forecast
NOC groups often include several related occupations. Although there is labour market data for the larger NOC group, this occupation makes up only a part of that group. It means data for this occupation may be different than the data shown. For examples, see Note.
To see data for all occupations, visit Occupations in Demand.
This section shows the employment outlook for this occupation in Alberta over a 5-year period.
Employment outlook is influenced by a wide variety of factors including:
In Alberta, this occupation is part of 1 or more 2016 National Occupational Classification (NOC) groups.
Source: 2021-2025 Alberta Regional Occupational Demand Outlook
Annual growth is from 2021 to 2025. New positions created each year are in addition to job openings created by employment turnover.
NOC groups often include several related occupations. Although there is labour market data for the larger NOC group, this occupation makes up only a part of that group. It means data for this occupation may be different than the data shown. For examples, see Note.
Employment turnover is expected to increase as members of the baby boom generation retire over the next few years.
In Alberta, this occupation is part of 1 or more 2016 National Occupational Classification (NOC) groups. If there are multiple related NOC groups, select a NOC heading to learn about each one.
Unless otherwise noted, the data shown here is for all industries and all regions in Alberta.
All wage estimates are hourly except where otherwise indicated. Wages and salaries do not include overtime hours, tips, benefits, profit shares, bonuses (unrelated to production), and other forms of compensation.
To see the full survey data for this NOC group, visit the wage profile.
Other wage sources
To make an informed wage and salary decision, research other wage sources [pdf] to supplement this data.
Good Reliability, represents a CV of between 6.01% and 15.00% and/or fewer than 30 survey observations and/or if survey observations represent less than 50% of all estimated employment for the occupation.
| Wages* | Low (5th percentile) | High (95th percentile) | Average | Median |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Starting | $24.04 | $79.82 | $53.75 | $52.05 |
| Overall | $37.44 | $84.13 | $65.53 | $62.82 |
| Top | $40.00 | $109.85 | $78.97 | $76.88 |
Swipe left and right to view all data. Scroll left and right to view all data.
* All wage estimates are hourly except where otherwise indicated. Wages and salaries do not include overtime hours, tips, benefits, profit shares, bonuses (unrelated to production) and other forms of compensation.
Pay brackets for hourly wages
| ALL INDUSTRIES | $130,597 |
|---|---|
| Oil & Gas Extraction | $153,869 |
| Professional, Scientific & Technical Services | $99,826 |
| Public Administration | $100,372 |
Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of Alberta (APEGA) website: www.apega.ca
Canadian Federation of Earth Sciences (CFES) website: www.earthsciencescanada.com
Canadian Society of Petroleum Geologists (CSPG) website: www.cspg.org
Get information and referrals about career, education, and employment options from Alberta Supports.
Updated Mar 31, 2022. The information contained in this profile is current as of the dates shown. Salary, employment outlook, and educational program information may change without notice. It is advised that you confirm this information before making any career decisions.
