Why We Love It
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$105,720Potential Avg. Salary
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10.4%Job Growth Rate
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Growing DemandJob Outlook
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Get to TravelCareer Attribute
Geochemists are scientists that study, analyze and research samples of soil, rock, minerals and other natural materials of the Earth. They also monitor the Earth;s composition to develop information on the age, nature and structure of specific geological locations.
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What is a Geochemist?
The following job responsibilities are common for Geochemists:
- Conducts and plans geochemical land surveys and fieldwork
- Collects and analyzes samples of soil, rocks and sediment to determine information of the Earth’s history and developments
- Interprets data and results of field surveys and tests to produce reports and charts
- Generates computer models of hydrocarbon using specialist software
- Writes technical reports and papers and presents them to other engineers
A Day In The Life
Geochemists use geology and chemistry in the exploration of the Earth’s natural resources like rock, sediment, natural gas, oil and minerals. They can also use their knowledge and expertise to help reduce pollutants and increase water quality in natural water reservoirs.
Based on the data they accumulate, they will then write reports using complex software to build computer-generated models. They will then present these findings, charts, and models to managers and fellow employees.
Typical Work Schedule
Working hours are long and shift-work schedules. Travel is necessary for fieldwork studies and also for visiting job sites.
Projected Job Growth
Job growth in this industry is at a slow and steady incline. With the need of more studies to aid our environment the demand for this position could rise suddenly.
Typical Employers
Most geochemists are employed by oil companies, environmental agencies, government agencies, universities and colleges and research facilities.
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How To Become a Geochemist
An undergraduate degree in geochemistry, geology, environmental sciences, chemical engineering or a related subject is required for this career choice. Courses such as, geology, mathematics, chemistry, earth science and physics are required.
Geochemist Salary Data
We’ve provided you the following to learn more about this career. The salary and growth data on this page comes from recently published Bureau of Labor Statistics data while the recommendations and editorial content are based on our research.
National Anual Salary
Low Range
$62,030Average
$105,720High Range
---National Hourly Wage
Low Range
$30/hrAverage
$51/hrHigh Range
---How do Geochemist salaries stack up to other jobs across the country? Based on the latest jobs data nationwide, Geochemist's can make an average annual salary of $105,720, or $51 per hour. On the lower end, they can make $62,030 or $30 per hour, perhaps when just starting out or based on the state you live in.
Salary Rankings And Facts
#55 Nationally for All Careers
Above Average Salary Nationally
Highest Education Among Geochemists
- 9.4% Doctorate
- 36.8% Masters
- 47.1% Bachelors
- 2.3% Associates
- 4.1% College
- 0% High School
- 0.3% Less than High School
Job Growth Projections and Forecast
2014 Total Jobs
36,4002024 Est. Jobs
40,200Job Growth Rate
10.4%Est. New Jobs
3,800How does Geochemist job growth stack up to other jobs across the country? By 2024, there will be a change of 3,800 jobs for a total of 40,200 people employed in the career nationwide. This is a 10.4% change in growth over the next ten years, giving the career a growth rate nationwide of Above Average.
Growth Rankings And Facts
#176 Nationally for All Careers
Above Avg. Growth Nationally
What Companies Employ The Most Geochemists
| Industry | Current Jobs | New Jobs Needed | % Increase |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oil and gas extraction | 8,000 | 1,000 | 1% |
| Engineering services | 6,200 | 800 | 1% |
| Management, scientific, and technical consulting services | 5,300 | 1,500 | 2% |
