What is a Geological Sample Test Technician?
Example of Geological Sample Test Technician Job Test or analyze geological samples, crude oil, or minerals to detect presence of petroleum, gas, or mineral deposits indicating potential for exploration or production or to determine physical or chemical properties to ensure that products meet quality standards.
What Do Geological Sample Test Technicians Do On a Daily Basis?
- Prepare notes, sketches, geological maps, or cross sections.
- Test and analyze samples from potential underground carbon sequestration sites.
- Participate in geological, geophysical, geochemical, hydrographic, or oceanographic surveys, prospecting field trips, exploratory drilling, well logging, or underground mine survey programs.
- Inspect engines for wear or defective parts, using equipment or measuring devices.
- Test and analyze samples to determine their content and characteristics, using laboratory apparatus or testing equipment.
- Compile, log, or record testing or operational data for review and further analysis.
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What Skills Do You Need to Work as a Geological Sample Test Technician?
Below is a list of the skills most Geological Sample Test Technicians say are important on the job.
Critical Thinking: Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
Reading Comprehension: Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.
Monitoring: Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.
Writing: Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.
Science: Using scientific rules and methods to solve problems.
Active Listening: Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
Related Job Titles
- Geotechnicial Properties Technician
- Quality Control Technician (QC Technician)
- Specialist Field Engineer
- Ore Tester
- Chalk Tester
Job Demand for Geological Sample Test Technicians
In 2016, there was an estimated number of 15,000 jobs in the United States for Geological Sample Test Technician. New jobs are being produced at a rate of 16% which is above the national average. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts 2,400 new jobs for Geological Sample Test Technician by 2026. There will be an estimated 1,900 positions for Geological Sample Test Technician per year.

The states with the most job growth for Geological Sample Test Technician are Wyoming, North Carolina, and Utah. Watch out if you plan on working in Kentucky, West Virginia, or New Hampshire. These states have the worst job growth for this type of profession.
Average Geological Sample Test Technicians Salary
The average yearly salary of a Geological Sample Test Technician ranges between $28,020 and $108,110.

Geological Sample Test Technicians who work in New Mexico, Alaska, or Kentucky, make the highest salaries.
How much do Geological Sample Test Technicians make in each U.S. state?
State | Annual Mean Salary |
---|---|
Alabama | $52,180 |
Alaska | $76,650 |
Arizona | $45,350 |
Arkansas | $45,670 |
California | $52,900 |
Florida | $39,930 |
Georgia | $64,110 |
Idaho | $40,750 |
Illinois | $39,500 |
Indiana | $60,210 |
Kansas | $48,530 |
Kentucky | $64,540 |
Louisiana | $64,640 |
Maryland | $50,230 |
Massachusetts | $62,840 |
Michigan | $50,010 |
Minnesota | $55,610 |
Mississippi | $52,570 |
Missouri | $49,620 |
Montana | $61,730 |
Nebraska | $66,470 |
Nevada | $56,330 |
New Mexico | $90,010 |
New York | $54,920 |
North Dakota | $60,050 |
Ohio | $49,660 |
Oklahoma | $55,580 |
Pennsylvania | $49,190 |
South Carolina | $51,610 |
Tennessee | $54,600 |
Texas | $66,760 |
Utah | $51,400 |
Virginia | $46,460 |
Washington | $53,840 |
West Virginia | $57,350 |
Wyoming | $59,410 |
Tools & Technologies Used by Geological Sample Test Technicians
Below is a list of the types of tools and technologies that Geological Sample Test Technicians may use on a daily basis:
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Word
- Microsoft PowerPoint
- Autodesk AutoCAD
- Adobe Systems Adobe Illustrator
- Corel CorelDraw Graphics Suite
- Leica Geosystems ERDAS IMAGINE
- Golden Software Surfer
- Geographic resources analysis support system GRASS
- Landmark GeoGraphix
- Seismic Micro-Technology KINGDOM
- Clark Labs IDRISI Andes
- Parallel Geoscience SPW
- Midland Valley 2DMove
- Martin D Adamiker’s TruFlite
- Surface III
How to Become a Geological Sample Test Technician
What education or degrees do I need to become a Geological Sample Test Technician?

How Long Does it Take to Become a Geological Sample Test Technician?

Geological Sample Test Technicians Sector

Below are examples of industries where Geological Sample Test Technicians work:

Similar Careers
Those thinking about becoming a Geological Sample Test Technician might also be interested in the following careers:
Career changers with experience as a Geological Sample Test Technician sometimes find work in one of the following fields:
References:
Image Credit: Jeffrey Beall via Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike License
More about our data sources and methodologies.
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