Marine Geologist
What is a Marine Geologist?
You take a deep breath, then plunge yourself down into the inky depths of the watery abyss down below. You breathe in the oxygen from the tank strapped to your back as you make your way downwards, using your scuba fins to propel yourself forward. Soon, the murky ocean floor comes into view. You swim past a school of colorful fish that dart away before landing softly, kicking up a small cloud of sediment. You've reached your destination. Time to take some samples.
The marine geologist makes their home in the great oceans of the Earth. They seek to understand the geology of the ocean floor, including the chemical composition of sediments and rocks, plate tectonics, volcanic activity, earthquakes and tidal waves, and even natural resources like oil and gas. Some of their work includes taking core samples, mapping the physical features of the seafloor, and finding and assessing sites for extracting fossil fuels. They often work both in the field and in the lab, collecting data and taking it back for analysis. Most are employed either by oil companies, research laboratories, or government agencies, often in coastal states like California, Texas, Florida, and Hawaii.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, marine geology falls under the category of geosciences, whose members make an average annual salary of $99,240, or about $47.71 an hour, as of May 2024. Because the field is relatively small and therefore somewhat competitive, most employers typically require a master's degree, even for many entry-level jobs. However, the industry is still enjoying steady growth with a projected five to seven percent yearly growth based on a number of factors, including technological advances for conducting oceanic research and an increasing demand for natural resources.
Dive right in and explore the deep secrets that the ocean has to offer as a marine geologist!
For More Information:
How to Become a Marine Geologist | EnvironmentalScience.org
What does a Marine Geologist do? Career Overview, Roles, Jobs | GSA
What is marine geology? | U.S. Geological Survey
Geoscientists : Occupational Outlook Handbook: : U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
