Day in the life
A Day in the Life of a Geological Technician
What geological technicians actually do from the start of a shift to the end: the tasks, tools, schedule and realities of the job.
What is a typical day like for a geological technician?
Shift change at the rig. From there, the day usually includes log drill cores, run mud logging, and collect samples. Rotations and shifts are common in field roles.
Hour by hour: a typical shift
No two days are identical, but this timeline reflects a realistic day for a geological technician working full time.
- Shift change at the rig.
- Catch cuttings samples.
- Describe cuttings under a microscope.
- Monitor gas readings.
- Update the mud log.
- Package samples.
- Send reports.
Where geological technicians work
Technicians work at rigs, mines, field sites and labs.
Hours and schedule
Rotations and shifts are common in field roles.
Tasks you’ll do most often
- Log drill cores
- Run mud logging
- Collect samples
- Run lab tests
- Operate field instruments
- Manage data
- Support geologists
Tools you’ll use every day
- Microscopes
- Gas detectors
- GPS
- Core saws
- Field tablets
- Logging software
The best and hardest parts of the job
What people like
- Two-year path
- Field adventure
- Good pay with rotations
- Earth science work
What’s hard
- Remote rotations
- Weather
- Industry cycles
- Long shifts
You’ll likely thrive if…
- I like rocks and Earth science
- I like field work
- I can do rotations
- I’m detail-oriented
- I want a two-year path
- I don’t mind remote sites
Not sure? Take the free Geological Technician fit quiz or the Career Match Quiz.
Staying safe on the job
- Follow rig and mine safety
- Carry H2S monitors
- Wear PPE
- Follow field safety plans