Most commonly reported Work Activities
- Getting Information Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
- Analysing Data or Information Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by breaking down information or data into separate parts.
- Interacting With Computers Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.
- Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.
- Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events Identifying information by categorising, estimating, recognising differences or similarities, and detecting changes in circumstances or events.
- Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.
- Processing Information Compiling, coding, categorising, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying information or data.
- Thinking Creatively Developing, designing, or creating new applications, ideas, relationships, systems, or products, including artistic contributions.
- Making Decisions and Solving Problems Analysing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.
- Interpreting the Meaning of Information for Others Translating or explaining what information means and how it can be used.
Working Life
Geologists study the origins, structure and composition of the Earth. They can find out information about the Earth by examining rocks, minerals, crystals, steam sediments and fossils.
They may work for oil, mining or specialist survey companies, using their knowledge to find and extract natural resources like oil, coal, water and uranium. In oil exploration, geologists must be very confident that the right area has been found before drilling begins. They also need to know what type of structure is being drilled, and how stable it is. This information may be obtained by taking rock samples. Most oil companies have research laboratories, where geologists try to improve discovery techniques. They will also spend time doing fieldwork, possibly in remote areas, both at sea and on land.
Geologists are now searching for new oil sites, for example, in the North Atlantic. Some geologists investigate the use of geothermal power (stored heat from inside the Earth) as an alternative energy source. Iceland gets most of its energy from heat stored in recently molten volcanic rock.
Rainfall may also be stored in rocks below ground. Hydrogeologists are experts at finding and managing underground water resources. This work is especially important in very hot countries, where most water may be below ground.
Some geologists monitor and observe the behaviour of earthquakes and volcanoes, using their research to predict eruptions and earthquakes more reliably.
With any type of geological engineering or development, careful study must be made of the possible impact on the environment, including people, animals, buildings, roads and railways. A range of geological data may be sampled before any work takes place, including the type and thickness of underlying bedrock. Geologists must take into account faults and weaknesses in the area, which may cause drainage problems, or instability. They also work with mining companies to help them to identify where ore deposits are located.
Most commonly reported Work Tasks
- Plan or conduct geological, geochemical, or geophysical field studies or surveys, sample collection, or drilling and testing programmes used to collect data for research or application.
- Analyse and interpret geological data, using computer software.
- 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.
- Analyse and interpret geological, geochemical, or geophysical information from sources, such as survey data, well logs, bore holes, or aerial photos.
- Identify risks for natural disasters, such as mudslides, earthquakes, or volcanic eruptions.
- Prepare geological maps, cross-sectional diagrams, charts, or reports concerning mineral extraction, land use, or resource management, using results of fieldwork or laboratory research.
- Communicate geological findings by writing research papers, participating in conferences, or teaching geological science at universities.
- Locate and estimate probable natural gas, oil, or mineral ore deposits or underground water resources, using aerial photographs, charts, or research or survey results.
- Advise construction firms or government agencies on dam or road construction, foundation design, land use, or resource management.
- Measure characteristics of the Earth, such as gravity or magnetic fields, using equipment such as seismographs, gravimeters, torsion balances, or magnetometers.
Further Information
- Geologist, engineering- from: GradIreland
- Mine geologist- from: GradIreland
Qualities - Geologist
Geologists must be responsible, self-reliant, well-motivated and have good communication skills.
The Field Geologist needs to be in good physical condition, able to cope with differing weather conditions, and have sharp eyesight.
The Geologist may often have to take sole charge of a project and will, therefore, require the ability to organise and lead a mixed group of people.
He or she must be prepared to work, if overseas, in remote terrains and be prepared to travel widely as project requirements dictate.
However, not all Geologists engage in field work. Geology is a multi-disciplinary subject and there are many branches involving laboratory or aerial photographic studies.
Geologists should be enthusiastic about their science, have good powers of observation, good judgement and logical thought.
Interests - Geologist
This occupation is typically suited for people with the following Career Interests:
Investigative
The Investigative person will usually find a particular area of science to be of interest. They are inclined toward intellectual and analytical activities and enjoy observation and theory. They may prefer thought to action, and enjoy the challenge of solving problems with sophiscticated technology. These types prefer mentally stimulating environments and often pay close attention to developments in their chosen field.
Realist
Realists are usually interested in 'things' - such as buildings, mechanics, equipment, tools, electronics etc. Their primary focus is dealing with these - as in building, fixing, operating or designing them. Involvement in these areas leads to high manual skills, or a fine aptitude for practical design - as found in the various forms of engineering.
Realists like to find practical solutions to problems using tools, technology and skilled work. Realists usually prefer to be active in their work environment, often do most of their work alone, and enjoy taking decisive action with a minimum amount of discussion and paperwork.
Entry / Progression - Geologist
To gain professionally recognised qualifications, you need to complete a relevant foundation degree course and then undertake a period of training in employment. There are a limited number of courses countrywide that are particularly relevant to minerals/mining surveying.
The B.Sc in Geomatics has been accredited by the Society of Chartered Surveyors of Ireland (SCSI/RICS), the Irish Institution of Surveyors (IIS), the Institution of Civil Engineering Surveyors (ICES) and the Construction Industry Board, UK. Graduates of the course are eligible to become corporate members of these professional bodies.
Most professional geophysicists are graduates. A combined degree in Geology and Physics, or a degree containing significant amounts of geology, maths and physics, may be acceptable. Many posts will require a good Second Class Honours degree. It is often desirable but not essential to obtain higher degrees, e.g. Master's Degrees in Geophysics.
Sample Education and Training Pathways
A number of courses are available throughout the country that focus on learning and skills that may be useful for this career. The examples and links below may guide you in your research.
Further Education (FET)
Further Education & Training (FET) Courses are delivered by local ETBs, ranging in duration from several weeks up to 20 months. Courses are designed to meet the labour market needs and often include a large element of work experience.
Example search terms include: applied sciences, general engineering.
Search for FET Courses
PLC Courses (FET)
PLC courses are full-time courses, one or two years duration, with awards at Level 5 and 6 on the NFQ. They are offered nationally in Schools and Colleges of Further Education.
Example search terms include: applied sciences, general engineering.
Search for PLC Courses
Apprenticeships:
Apprenticeships are structured work-based training programs that combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction. They run from 2 – 4 years and are open to individuals of all ages, including school leavers, those seeking a career change, and existing employees who wish to upskill.
Examples: Engineering, Geo-Driller.
Search for Apprenticeships
Higher Education CAO (Undergraduate)
Higher Education courses at Levels 6 to 8 on the NFQ, delivered in Universities and Technological Universities & Institutes. Courses run from 2 – 5 years and places are allocated on a points-based system, processed by the Central Application Office.
Example search terms include: geography and geoscience, biological, earth and environmental sciences, science, mathematical, physical and geological sciences, geographic science, geology and physics, maths and physics, geospatial surveying.
Search for CAO Courses
Higher Education (Postgraduate)
Postgraduate courses are courses at Levels 9 and 10 on the NFQ and usually last 1 – 2 years full time, or longer if a PhD or part time. Entrants typically require an undergraduate award (Level 8).
Example search terms include: geoinformatics for environmental geology, geology, applied environmental geology, offshore, environmental geology, earth sciences, research, exploration, field geology, geophysics, petroleum geology, geochemistry, economic geology, environmental geology.
Search for Postgraduate Courses
Professional Development
Professional development (CPD) courses are specialised training, formal education, or advanced professional learning that improves skills, professional knowledge, competency, and overall effectiveness in the professional world.
Society Of Chartered Surveyors Ireland
Check the Useful Contacts tab on this page to see if there are any professional bodies listed who may provide training related to this career.
Pay & Salary - Geologist
Salary Range (thousands per year)* €35k - €81k
Salaries vary based on employer, location, experience, duties, and role.
Data Source(s):
Payscale/ Salary explorer/ Glassdoor
Last Updated: July, 2024
Labour Market Updates - Geologist
Note: The following information relates to occupations that include: Chemical scientists; Biological scientists; Biochemists; Physical scientists; Social and humanities scientists; Natural and social science professionals n.e.c.; Conservation professionals; Environment professionals; Research and development managers.
This information has been derived from the Solas National Skills Bulletin (2023).
The annual employment growth rate over the five-year period was above average for this occupation, with employment increasing by almost 2,000 persons between 2021 and 2022. Almost a third of employment was in industry with the remainder spread across many sectors. The number of new employment permits issued grew from 164 to 506 between 2021 and 2022, with two fifths of permits issued for roles in the manufacturing of chemicals/pharma sub-sector for scientists and analysts (e.g. quality control, chemists); other roles include medical scientists/technologists, microbiologists, process development and R&D scientists.
In June 2022, medical scientists were moved to the Critical Skills Employment Permit List due to issues with sourcing suitable candidates; in Summer 2023, the Government announced plans to expand the number of training places for medical scientists by 20 places. The Recruitment Agency Survey identified difficult-to-fill vacancy mentions for analytical and process scientists. Online job adverts for this occupation grew slightly in 2022, almost all related to posts for R&D managers.
This was the most frequently occurring occupation in online job adverts in 2022. With employment levels increasing and demand still evident, shortages are expected to persist for this occupation, particularly in the chemical/pharmaceutical manufacturing sector, for those with experience and/or in niche areas. The recent decline in the value of pharmaceutical exports in Ireland is unlikely to have a significant impact on the demand for skills as, in addition to being in strong demand in the pharma & biopharma processing industry, they are much sought after elsewhere in both the life sciences sector (e.g. medical devices) and other manufacturing (e.g. food & beverage); in addition, Government focus (and investment) on research and innovation will also sustain the already strong demand for these skills. Shortages of analytical, process and medical scientists are likely to continue.
Useful Contacts - Geologist
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Institute of Geologists of Ireland
- Geology Department, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4
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- See contact form on website
- Click Here
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Geological Survey of Ireland
- Beggars Bush, Haddington Rd., Dublin 4
- (01) 678 2896
- Click Here
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Wind Energy Ireland
- Sycamore House Millennium Park Osberstown Naas Co Kildare W91 D627
- 045 899341
- [email protected]
- Click Here
