Geology - After Graduation
There are many exciting careers available to you with a degree in geology.
Future Careers
MHCC Career Coaches are here to help you explore your career options after graduation. Below are a few common paths graduates can pursue.
Geological Technicians, Except Hydrologic Technicians
In this role, your daily tasks will include testing and analyzing samples to determine their content and characteristics, using laboratory apparatus or testing equipment, and collecting or preparing solid or fluid samples for analysis.
Soil and Plant Scientists
In these roles, you will develop methods of conserving or managing soil that farmers or forestry companies can apply. You will also provide information or recommendations to farmers or other landowners regarding how they can best use the land, promote plant growth, or avoid or correct problems such as erosion.
Geodetic Surveyors
As a geodetic surveyor, you will calculate the exact horizontal and vertical position of points on the Earth's surface and conduct surveys to determine precise positions, measurements of points, elevations, lines, areas, volumes, contours, or other features of land surfaces.
Petroleum Engineers
When you work as a petroleum engineer, you will be responsible for specifying and supervising well modification and stimulation programs to maximize oil and gas recovery and need to maintain records of drilling and production operations.
Conservation Scientists
As a conservation scientist, you advise land users, such as farmers or ranchers, on plans, problems, or alternative conservation solutions. You will also compute design specifications for implementing conservation practices using survey or field information, technical guides, or engineering manuals.
Mining and Geological Engineers, Including Mining Safety Engineers
In these roles, you will monitor mine production rates to assess operational effectiveness and supervise, train, and evaluate technicians, technologists, survey personnel, engineers, scientists, or other mine personnel.
Geoscientists, Except Hydrologists and Geographers
As a Geoscientist, you communicate geological findings by writing research papers, participating in conferences, or teaching geological science at universities. You also locate and estimate probable natural gas, oil, or mineral ore deposits or underground water resources using aerial photographs, charts, or research or survey results.
Geothermal Production Managers
If you become a geothermal production manager, your daily tasks will include developing or managing budgets for geothermal operations and developing operating plans and schedules for geothermal operations.
Hydrologists
As a hydrologist, you will install, maintain, and calibrate instruments that monitor water levels, rainfall, and sediments and develop computer models for hydrologic predictions.
Geothermal Technicians
As a geothermal technician, you will monitor and adjust operations of geothermal power plant equipment or systems and prepare and maintain logs, reports, or other documentation of work performed.
Water Resource Specialists
As a water resource specialist, you will analyze stormwater systems to identify opportunities for water resource improvements and conduct, or oversee the conduct of, investigations on matters such as water storage, wastewater discharge, pollutants, permits, or other compliance and regulatory issues.
Learn more with MHCC's Career coachJob Boards
Here are places to search for current openings at organizations that hire for your skill set.
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Have questions about the Geology Program?
Read Geology Frequently Asked Questions