Study the composition, structure, and other physical aspects of the Earth. May use geological, physics, and mathematics knowledge in exploration for oil, gas, minerals, or underground water; or in waste disposal, land reclamation, or other environmental problems. May study the Earth's internal composition, atmospheres, and oceans, and its magnetic, electrical, and gravitational forces. Includes mineralogists, paleontologists, stratigraphers, geodesists, and seismologists.
Key competencies for this occupation at a glance
Annual wage data for Geoscientists, Except Hydrologists and Geographers (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
22,510
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $58,790. 25th percentile: U.S. $72,440. 50th percentile: U.S. $99,240. 75th percentile: U.S. $134,350. 90th percentile: U.S. $178,880. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
| Metric | U.S. |
|---|---|
| 10% of workers earn the following or less | $58,790 |
| 10% of workers earn the following or more | $178,880 |
| Workers on average earn | $111,310 |
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
Frequently requested by employers in job postings
