Geological and mineral technologists and technicians (NOC 2212)

Geological and mineral technologists and technicians provide technical support and services or may work independently in the fields of oil and gas exploration and production, geophysics, petroleum engineering, geology, mining and mining engineering, mineralogy, extractive and physical metallurgy, metallurgical engineering and environmental protection.

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Geological technician

WorkBC's Career Trek

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Geological and Mineral Technologists

• Conduct or direct geological, geophysical, geochemical, hydrographic or oceanographic surveys, prospecting field trips, exploratory drilling, well logging or underground mine survey programs
• Configure, operate and maintain geophysical survey and well logging instruments and equipment
• Prepare notes, sketches, geological maps and cross sections
• Prepare, transcribe or analyze seismic, gravimetric, well log or other geophysical and survey data • Assist engineers and geologists in the evaluation and analysis of petroleum and mineral reservoirs
• Prepare or supervise the preparation of rock, mineral or metal samples and perform physical and chemical laboratory tests
• Conduct or assist in environmental audits, in the design of measures to minimize undesirable environmental effects of new or expanded mining and oil and gas operations, and in the development of waste management and other related environmental protection procedures
• May supervise oil and gas well drilling, well completions and work-overs
• May conduct or supervise studies and programs related to mine development, mining methods, mine ventilation, lighting, drainage and ground control
• May assist engineers and metallurgists in specifying material selection, metal treatments or corrosion protection systems
• May assist hydrogeologists in evaluating groundwater and well circulation and in report preparation
• May develop specifications for heat treatment of metals or for welding, design welding fixtures, troubleshoot welding processes or quality problems and supervise welding projects
• May co-ordinate crew members' activities during seismic tests.

Geological and mineral technicians

• Participate in geological, geophysical, geochemical, hydrographic or oceanographic surveys, prospecting field trips, exploratory drilling, well logging or underground mine survey programs and in environmental audits and related environmental protection activities
• Operate and maintain geophysical survey and well logging instruments and equipment
• Prepare notes, sketches, geological maps and cross sections
• Assist in preparing, transcribing or analyzing seismic, gravimetric, well log or other geophysical and survey data
• Assist in the preparation of rock, mineral or metal samples and in conducting physical and chemical laboratory tests
• Assist in hydrogeological field and laboratory studies and in preparation of reports
• Carry out a limited range of other technical functions in support of geology, geophysics and petroleum and mining engineering.

Geological and mineral technologists and technicians usually work a 35 to 40-hour week, however, extended hours or shift work may also be required. They may work either indoors in an office or laboratory or in field locations, such as mines, construction sites or wilderness areas while some workers may temporarily relocate to remote locations during field work.

Outdoor work sites can be dirty and noisy and safety precautions must be undertaken to reduce risks associated with field work. Some technologists and technicians perform field work during the summer months and indoor laboratory work during the winter.

There will be job openings due to the need to replace retiring workers, as well as the creation of new jobs.

Employment growth is expected for geological and mineral technologists and technicians in the mining sector as a result of exploration and mining activity. British Columbia's Oil and gas industry has also seen growth in recent years, as high prices increased production and exploration activities.

Demand for workers in the Professional business services industry is tied to a wide variety of other industries, including Manufacturing and Construction. Employment growth in this industry is expected to follow overall growth in the provincial economy.