insights Why the US is the best place to start a geology career

Geology careers are extremely diverse because they demand a wide range of skills, experience, and knowledge from other sciences such as chemistry, biology, and physics. A career in geology offers both lab-based and field roles, so there’s a high level of variety and the opportunity to become an environmental expert. Geologists solve many of today’s biggest environmental challenges, such as predicting earthquakes and conducting outdoor research. 

At Atkins, we deliver a range of quality projects to meet the needs and challenges of our clients across the USA. Working with our brands, AtkinsRéalis and Faithful+Gould, we help solve some of the biggest challenges the region faces. So, a career with us is a chance to work with some of the most talented professionals and gain unrivalled experience.

Delve in and explore the benefits of launching a career as a geologist in the US.

The role of a Geologist

So, what are geologists? They are responsible for studying and investigating the Earth’s physical structures and substances, such as rocks, soil, and even fossil fuels. These professionals compile reports and evaluations and help people prepare for potential natural disasters. 

If you’re newly graduated, you might be asking “what are the best geology careers?”. There’s a world of possibilities, from hydrogeology to specialising in biodiversity net gain like Rachel. Due to the value that these professionals provide, there’s great demand and diversity in their work.

There are a variety of industries that geologists can work in, from engineering to mining, and the tasks performed often depend on the sector. However, the main purpose of a geologist is to study the Earth and extract materials for further investigation. There are also different variations of a geologist, such as geotechnical engineers and engineering geologists.

Starting your geology career in North America

In the US, geologists are pioneering the energy frontier. Geologists hold the key to unlocking a future where traditional and alternative energy sources converge in perfect harmony. They are often involved in discovering and developing sites for energy sources, such as studying wind speeds and patterns to determine sites that are suitable for wind turbines. 

With the US steadfastly advancing towards its ambitious goal of achieving net zero emissions by 2050, the surge in demand for alternative energy sources is poised to drive substantial and sustained growth within this burgeoning market. Notably, this flourishing industry is projected to bolster employment opportunities for geoscientists, with a projected growth rate of 5 percent anticipated by 2031 in the US.

What’s the future of geology?

As technology evolves, there will continue to be a demand for geologists, meaning that these professionals will have to adapt to innovations to thrive in their roles. Along with big data, machine learning and artificial intelligence have the potential to transform geosciences. For example, 3D-mapping technologies are used to create 3D environments and models, which serves as a time-saving technique that allows professionals to see computer-generated projects and landscapes in more detail. 3D geological models provide geologists with a far more sophisticated and advanced understanding of the different rock structures and sediments in the subsurface.

The future of geology in the US and the broader North American region will also likely be defined by seismography, which monitors and detects earthquakes. With some of the most significant having occurred in North America, modern seismology technologies will play a key role for geologists in the future.

Geologists are growing more valuable as industries constantly seek new ways to innovate and generate more power. Overall, the future of geology will be defined by developments in technology, creating more opportunities for professionals to grow their careers in the US.

Are you looking to launch your career in geology?

At Atkins, we provide an array of career opportunities to ambitious and motivated professionals. As a provider of engineering and construction services, we have deep knowledge and understanding of various markets, including environment and geoscience. Our teams focus on data and technology to overcome our clients' challenges and help preserve the planet. We have a growing presence and have delivered a range of notable projects across the USA.

If you're interested in impactful careers in geology and want to find out more about working at Atkins, browse our available environment and geoscience jobs today.

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