Geological technicians, except hydrologic technicians
SOC Code: 19-4043
Geological technicians, except hydrologic technicians carries a 37% AI exposure score (Medium automation risk), with a median annual wage of $48,390 and +1.5% projected employment growth from 2024 to 2034 (BLS), affecting approximately 9,800 workers. Full task breakdown, skills, and employer data are below.
Proportion of tasks susceptible to AI automation (O*NET analysis)
AI Exposure vs Industry Growth
Total occupations tracked
832
Covering all SOC major groups
Data currency
2024
BLS Employment Projections
AI exposure avg
40%
Fleet-wide median across all roles
Composite score weighing O*NET task data completeness, BLS projection methodology, and cross-validation with employer risk grades.
Employment Projections
Occupation Insight
Geological technicians, except hydrologic technicians (SOC 19-4043) carries an AI exposure score of 37%, placing it in the Medium automation-risk tier. This score is computed from O*NET Database 30.0 task-level analysis, where each task an occupation performs is evaluated against current generative AI, robotic process automation, and machine-learning capabilities. A score below 40% reflects tasks anchored in physical dexterity, unstructured environments, or high-touch human interaction that current AI cannot reliably replicate.
The economic context matters alongside the risk score. BLS counted approximately 9,800 workers in this occupation in 2024, and projects a +1.5% change through 2034 — modest growth that keeps the occupation viable even as tasks evolve. Median annual compensation stands at $48,390, reflecting both skill scarcity and the value employers place on the tasks that remain difficult to automate. Entry typically requires Associate's degree, plus None of related experience.
For career planners, this profile should be read alongside the task, skill, and knowledge breakdowns below and the list of employers whose workforce composition includes Geological technicians, except hydrologic technicians. Adjacent occupations shown further down offer lateral moves that preserve industry knowledge while potentially reducing exposure. Pair the AI exposure score with the BLS employment projection and wage percentiles above for a complete career assessment.
Education & Entry Requirements
Top Tasks (O*NET)
- 1. Test and analyze samples to determine their content and characteristics, using laboratory apparatus or testing equipment.
- 2. Collect or prepare solid or fluid samples for analysis.
- 3. Compile, log, or record testing or operational data for review and further analysis.
- 4. Prepare notes, sketches, geological maps, or cross-sections.
- 5. Operate or adjust equipment or apparatus used to obtain geological data.
- 6. Plan and direct activities of workers who operate equipment to collect data.
- 7. Participate in geological, geophysical, geochemical, hydrographic, or oceanographic surveys, prospecting field trips, exploratory drilling, well logging, or underground mine survey programs.
- 8. Set up or direct set-up of instruments used to collect geological data.
- 9. Record readings in order to compile data used in prospecting for oil or gas.
- 10. Prepare or review professional, technical, or other reports regarding sampling, testing, or recommendations of data analysis.
Key Skills Required
- Reading Comprehension
- Critical Thinking
- Writing
- Monitoring
- Time Management
- Active Listening
- Complex Problem Solving
- Judgment and Decision Making
- Speaking
- Coordination
Knowledge Areas
- Computers and Electronics
- Engineering and Technology
- Mathematics
- English Language
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Geography
- Customer and Personal Service
- Mechanical
- Public Safety and Security
Frequently Asked Questions
Will AI replace Geological technicians, except hydrologic technicians?
Geological technicians, except hydrologic technicians has an AI exposure score of 37%, indicating a medium level of automation risk. The majority of tasks in this role require human judgment, creativity, or physical presence that AI cannot easily replicate.
What is the job outlook for Geological technicians, except hydrologic technicians?
According to BLS Employment Projections 2024-2034, Geological technicians, except hydrologic technicians is projected to grow by 1.5% over the decade. Current employment stands at approximately 9,800 workers.
What skills are needed for Geological technicians, except hydrologic technicians?
Key skills for Geological technicians, except hydrologic technicians include Reading Comprehension, Critical Thinking, Writing, and others. Typical entry-level education is Associate's degree.
How much do Geological technicians, except hydrologic technicians earn?
The median annual wage for Geological technicians, except hydrologic technicians is $48,390, according to BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (May 2024). Actual earnings vary by location, experience, industry, and employer. The BLS publishes detailed wage percentiles by region in its Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics program.
What education is required for Geological technicians, except hydrologic technicians?
The typical entry-level education for Geological technicians, except hydrologic technicians is Associate's degree. Employers generally expect None of related work experience. On-the-job training typically involves Moderate-term on-the-job training. Requirements can vary by employer and specialization.
Which companies employ Geological technicians, except hydrologic technicians?
Geological technicians, except hydrologic technicians roles exist across many industries and employers. Workforce composition is estimated from BLS industry-occupation employment distributions matched to SEC-registered public companies.
AI Exposure Rating
Medium automation risk based on 10 analyzed tasks. Most tasks require human judgment and are resistant to automation.
Related Occupations
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Data sources: Bureau of Labor Statistics Employment Projections 2024–2034 and O*NET Database 30.0. Employment figures are rounded. Wage data from BLS Occupational Employment Statistics (OES).