# Tasks & work activities — palaeontologist

Source: O*NET 30.3, occupation 19-2042.00 (Geoscientists, Except Hydrologists and Geographers) — manual nearest-occupation mapping via ISCO group 2114; the official ESCO crosswalk has no entry for this ESCO occupation.

## Task statements

- **[Core]** Analyze and interpret geological data, using computer software.
- **[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.
- **[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.
- **[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.
- **[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.
- **[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.
- **[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]** 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.