geology-technician/references/tasks.md

Tasks & work activities — geology technician

Source: O*NET 30.3, occupation 19-2042.00 (Geoscientists, Except Hydrologists and Geographers).

Task statements

• [Core] Analyze and interpret geological data, using computer software.
• [Core] Locate and review research articles or environmental, historical, or technical reports.
• [Core] Identify risks for natural disasters, such as mudslides, earthquakes, or volcanic eruptions.
• [Core] Review environmental, historical, or technical reports and publications for accuracy.
• [Core] Analyze and interpret geological, geochemical, or geophysical information from sources, such as survey data, well logs, bore holes, or aerial photos.
• [Core] Plan or conduct geological, geochemical, or geophysical field studies or surveys, sample collection, or drilling and testing programs used to collect data for research or application.
• [Core] Investigate the composition, structure, or history of the Earth's crust through the collection, examination, measurement, or classification of soils, minerals, rocks, or fossil remains.
• [Core] Prepare geological maps, cross-sectional diagrams, charts, or reports concerning mineral extraction, land use, or resource management, using results of fieldwork or laboratory research.
• [Core] Locate and estimate probable natural gas, oil, or mineral ore deposits or underground water resources, using aerial photographs, charts, or research or survey results.
• [Core] Conduct geological or geophysical studies to provide information for use in regional development, site selection, or development of public works projects.
• [Core] Advise construction firms or government agencies on dam or road construction, foundation design, land use, or resource management.
• [Core] Communicate geological findings by writing research papers, participating in conferences, or teaching geological science at universities.
• [Core] Measure characteristics of the Earth, such as gravity or magnetic fields, using equipment such as seismographs, gravimeters, torsion balances, or magnetometers.
• [Supplemental] Design geological mine maps, monitor mine structural integrity, or advise and monitor mining crews.
• [Supplemental] Collaborate with medical or health researchers to address health problems related to geological materials or processes.
• [Supplemental] Determine methods to incorporate geomethane or methane hydrates into global energy production or evaluate the potential environmental impacts of such incorporation.
• [Supplemental] Determine ways to mitigate the negative consequences of mineral dust dispersion.
• [Supplemental] Develop strategies for more environmentally friendly resource extraction and reclamation.
• [Supplemental] Develop ways to capture or use gases burned off as waste during oil production processes.
• [Supplemental] Identify new sources of platinum group elements for industrial applications, such as automotive fuel cells or pollution abatement systems.
• [Supplemental] Identify possible sites for carbon sequestration projects.
• [Supplemental] Locate potential sources of geothermal energy.
• [Supplemental] Provide advice on the safe siting of new nuclear reactor projects or methods of nuclear waste management.
• [Supplemental] Research geomechanical or geochemical processes to be used in carbon sequestration projects.
• [Supplemental] Research ways to reduce the ecological footprint of increasingly prevalent megacities.
• [Supplemental] Review work plans to determine the effectiveness of activities for mitigating soil or groundwater contamination.
• [Supplemental] Study historical climate change indicators found in locations, such as ice sheets or rock formations to develop climate change models.
• [Supplemental] Inspect construction projects to analyze engineering problems, using test equipment or drilling machinery.
• [Supplemental] Identify deposits of construction materials suitable for use as concrete aggregates, road fill, or other applications.
• [Supplemental] Assess ground or surface water movement to provide advice on issues, such as waste management, route and site selection, or the restoration of contaminated sites.
• [Supplemental] Test industrial diamonds or abrasives, soil, or rocks to determine their geological characteristics, using optical, x-ray, heat, acid, or precision instruments.
• [Supplemental] Develop applied software for the analysis and interpretation of geological data.

Detailed work activities

• Advise others about environmental management or conservation.
• Advise others on management of emergencies or hazardous situations or materials.
• Analyze environmental data.
• Analyze geological or geographical data.
• Analyze geological samples.
• Collect data about project sites.
• Communicate results of environmental research.
• Conduct research to gain information about products or processes.
• Coordinate cross-disciplinary research programs.
• Design research studies to obtain scientific information.
• Determine methods to minimize environmental impact of activities.
• Develop plans to manage natural or renewable resources.
• Develop software or applications for scientific or technical use.
• Develop sustainable industrial or development methods.
• Inspect facilities or sites to determine if they meet specifications or standards.
• Inspect work sites to identify potential environmental or safety hazards.
• Instruct college students in physical or life sciences.
• Interpret research or operational data.
• Locate natural resources using geospatial or other environmental data.
• Measure environmental characteristics.
• Monitor construction operations.
• Prepare maps.
• Prepare scientific or technical reports or presentations.
• Proofread documents, records, or other files to ensure accuracy.
• Research geological features or processes.
• Research hydrologic features or processes.
• Research impacts of environmental conservation initiatives.
• Review plans or proposals for environmental conservation.
• Review professional literature to maintain professional knowledge.