Geoscientists, Except Hydrologists and Geographers
Geoscientists study the physical aspects of the Earth.
Is geoscientists, except hydrologists and geographers a good career?
It scores 23/100 and ranks #256 of 825 occupations on pay, growth, employment and openings. Here's what the federal data says, with no editorializing.
Advantages
- Pays well above the U.S. median wage ($101,920 vs $61,390)
Possible tradeoffs
- Typically requires a bachelor's degree
What geoscientists, except hydrologists and geographers earn
Wages: BLS OEWS May 2025Pay is a range, not a number. Half of U.S. geoscientists, except hydrologists and geographers earn between $75,110 and $139,380 a year.
Best-paying states
Best-paying metros
Strongest employment concentration
Live geoscientists, except hydrologists and geographers jobs
No live geoscientists, except hydrologists and geographers openings yet
When the jobs.best ATS feed launches, verified geoscientists, except hydrologists and geographers openings will appear here — each shown against the $101,920 national median. Nothing here is placeholder.
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- Typical education
- Bachelor's degree
- Work experience
- None
- On-the-job training
- None
- Outlook
- Employment is projected to grow as fast as average through 2034.
Education
Geoscientists typically need a bachelor’s degree in geoscience or a related field, such as physical science or natural resources.
Geoscience programs include courses in mineralogy, geology, and other sciences, along with subjects such as mathematics and engineering. Some programs focus on a particular area of geoscience, such as environmental geology, while others prepare students to become generalists.
Programs also usually involve geology fieldwork that provides students with practical experience. Students may gain additional experience by completing a geosciences internship while in college. Interns usually work under the supervision of a senior geoscientist on tasks such as preparing for field visits, collecting samples, and writing reports.
Master’s and doctoral degree programs in geoscience typically involve more specialization, research, and technical experience than bachelor’s programs do. Having a graduate degree may make candidates more competitive for certain entry-level positions or for advancement.
Licenses, certifications & registrations
Most states require licensing for geologists who offer services to the public. Public service activities include those associated with civil engineering projects, environmental protection, and regulatory compliance.
Licensure requirements vary by state, but applicants typically must meet minimum education and experience requirements and earn a passing score on an exam.
Contact your state licensing board
Important qualities
Communication skills. Geoscientists must be able to present their research findings clearly to a variety of audiences, including both scientists and those who do not have a background in geoscience.
Critical-thinking skills. Geoscientists conduct research through observation and testing, then evaluate data to explain their findings.
Outdoor skills. Geoscientists may spend significant time outdoors performing fieldwork. They must be comfortable being outside for long periods, which may include overnight camping.
Physical stamina. Geoscientists need to be physically fit because they may need to hike, sometimes to remote locations, while carrying equipment for fieldwork.
Problem-solving skills. Geoscientists must be able to analyze statistical data and other information in order to address problems.
Related occupations
How much do geoscientists, except hydrologists and geographers make?
The national median wage is $101,920 a year, with the middle half earning between $75,110 and $139,380 (BLS OEWS May 2025).
Is geoscientists, except hydrologists and geographers a good career?
On the Jobs.best index it scores 23 of 100 and ranks #256 of 825 occupations, weighing pay, growth, employment and openings. Employment is projected to change +3.2% through 2034.
What education do you need to become a geoscientists, except hydrologists and geographer?
The typical entry-level education is bachelor's degree.
Where do geoscientists, except hydrologists and geographers earn the most?
Among states, Texas pays the highest median ($145,220). Local pay for every state and metro is below.