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Career Preparation

Prepare for the careers of today & tomorrow

As global issues related to energy and mineral resources, environmental pollution, climate change, and natural hazards grow in importance, so does the importance of a degree in Earth and Atmospheric Sciences.

Our students take their knowledge into many career fields. They are well prepared to work in the energy and environmental industries, research, education, federal and state government agencies, policy think tanks, and non-profit organizations.

They have become researchers, petroleum engineers, environmental specialists, atmospheric scientists, hydrologic field technicians, logging geoscientists, field geologists, policy advisors, educators, and more.

Job openings for recent graduates

Why is it great to work for the USGS?

Embark on an exciting future! From the peaks of the highest mountains to the depths of the deepest seas, the U.S. Geological Survey has career opportunities that make a difference in both the lives of others and in the environment.

USGS job postings

Job outlook

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of geoscientists is projected to grow 5 percent from 2021 to 2031, about as fast as the average for all occupations. About 2,400 openings for geoscientists are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Many of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.

The demand for earth scientists is growing. Several pressures on the domestic market include the rising demand for energy, and the increasing need for clean water resources and associated environmental management.

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Our domestic employment outlook is also affected by the increased need for mineral, metal, and energy products in the rapidly developing markets of Asia. In addition, many Earth scientists are nearing retirement, boosting the demand for geoscientists to replace them. A student beginning an Earth science concentration now will be well poised to take advantage of the strong market in the coming years.

Positions in the future will increasingly emphasize the integration of geological data acquisition (from soils, water, and rocks), analysis, synthesis, and response. This is especially true of volcanic and earthquake hazards. In addition, more attention is being given to predicting and mitigating the effects of flooding. This will require a new generation of geologists trained in the quantitative aspects of watershed hydrology, river mechanics and wetland function, and restoration.

Salary information

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the annual median pay for geoscientists in 2023 was $92,580. The salary you might earn will vary, depending upon the industry. Even more good news: these numbers are likely to increase in the future, because demand for raw materials continues to grow.

2023 Median Annual Salaries of Geoscience-related Occupations

Breakout Salary Data from American Geophysical Institute

Potential career growth

Many geoscientists begin their careers working for industry, for energy companies (a rapid growth sector currently), environmental consulting companies, or for government agencies, where there are hundreds of positions in each state. After gaining experience, they may move into upper management positions with private sector companies, earning as much or more than $140k annually.

A tradition of success

Virtually all Earth and Atmospheric Sciences majors who are interested in pursuing a career in the geosciences are successful. Some move directly into private industry. Others begin graduate studies either within the state or at the most competitive schools in the country.

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Department of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences

Career Preparation

Prepare for the careers of today & tomorrow

Job openings for recent graduates

Job outlook

Salary information

2023 Median Annual Salaries of Geoscience-related Occupations

Potential career growth

A tradition of success

The College of Arts & Sciences

Career Preparation

Prepare for the careers of today & tomorrow

Job openings for recent graduates

Job outlook

Salary information

2023 Median Annual Salaries of Geoscience-related Occupations

Potential career growth

A tradition of success

Department of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences social media channels

The College of Arts & Sciences