Geochemist : Entry requirements

Relevant degree subjects include physical, mathematical and applied sciences and engineering. In particular, the following subjects may increase your chances:

• geology;
• geochemistry;
• geophysics/geotechnology;
• marine sciences/oceanography;
• mineral/mining engineering;
• chemical engineering.

A degree in geology or mineral/mining engineering is usually required for employment in mining and mineral extraction.

In research and academic institutions, laboratory-based technical staff with HNDs in science and engineering subjects, together with relevant work experience, can enter geochemistry. However, further qualifications in the subject areas listed above will be required for career progression.

A postgraduate qualification can be an advantage, especially for helping to gain contacts, but having one does not necessarily guarantee employment. If you are thinking of taking a postgraduate course, consider its relevance for the specialist career area you are interested in. For example, courses in petroleum geochemistry are the most appropriate for a career in the petrochemical industry and the Petroleum Exploration Society of Great Britain (PESGB)  provides grants for relevant postgraduate study.

Practical experience in temporary employment may be more beneficial in certain industries, whereas public research bodies generally require a relevant PhD.

Strong competition for vacancies means that any relevant work experience is extremely valuable, as it demonstrates interest and commitment to potential employers and will also help you to find out what the work is really like. Work shadowing and volunteering are also great ways of gaining experience and skills, as well as making contacts.

The number of jobs in this field is limited, particularly in academic and environmental research institutions, so competition for work can be intense. It is therefore a good idea to apply early in your penultimate year for vacation work with oil and gas operators, service companies and small consultancies. It is also advisable to apply for advertised vacancies as well as making speculative applications. Geological Society - Work Experience and Placements  lists relevant internships and placement opportunities, as well as ideas for arranging your own work experience. The Geochemical Baseline Survey of the Environment (G-Base)  advertises its own vacation work placements, which aim to enable students to gain valuable experience in the more practical aspects of geology and geochemistry.

Finalists should be ready to research potential employers and to start applying for graduate jobs early in the autumn term, checking company websites for details of graduate training schemes and visiting the university’s careers service for information, advice and guidance.

Candidates will need to show evidence of the following:

• strong interpersonal skills;
• the ability to work as part of a team;
• networking skills;
• research skills and the ability to manage a project or study;
• a conscientious, methodical approach for analysing samples and collating data;
• good IT and database skills;
• laboratory skills, such as general technical ability and safety awareness;
• intellectual and personal flexibility.

The job market fluctuates with oil prices and the status of existing and proposed projects, so changes in the industry should be regularly monitored by prospective applicants.

The exploration and extraction industry is international, which means there are opportunities to live and work abroad. Major employers recruit internationally, attracting many applicants from the US and Europe, where a higher degree is the normal qualification for entry to a professional career.

Recruitment, training and job titles vary from company to company. Some employers do not distinguish at entry level between, for example, petroleum, drilling and support engineering. Instead, candidates who demonstrate broad potential are recruited and then deployed after training. Recruitment is often informal, via contacts, networking and reputation. For example, an employer may recognise the quality of someone’s work and their expertise during a project or contract and offer them a job as a result.

For more information, see work experience and internships and search courses and research.