Geological Technicians, Except Hydrologic Technicians

SOC code 19-4043 · O*NET-SOC 19-4043.00 · Considerable preparation needed · Science and engineering

Geological Technicians, Except Hydrologic Technicians pay

U.S. national figures, May 2025 BLS survey · How we got this number

Median pay

$53,350

a year

Hourly

$25.65

per hour

10th$35,770Median$53,35090th$99,560

The solid band is the middle 50% of workers; the bar spans the 10th to 90th percentile.

Average pay

$61,870

$29.75 per hour

Middle 50%

$44,850 – $72,110

25th to 75th percentile

Full spread

$35,770 – $99,560

10th to 90th percentile

People employed

6,980

nationwide

National U.S. figure, May 2025. Local pay can be higher or lower.

10th percentile: $35,770; $17.20/hr
25th percentile: $44,850; $21.56/hr
Median percentile: $53,350; $25.65/hr
75th percentile: $72,110; $34.67/hr
90th percentile: $99,560; $47.86/hr

What do geological technicians, except hydrologic technicians do?

Assist scientists or engineers in the use of electronic, sonic, or nuclear measuring instruments in laboratory, exploration, and production activities to obtain data indicating resources such as metallic ore, minerals, gas, coal, or petroleum. Analyze mud and drill cuttings. Chart pressure, temperature, and other characteristics of wells or bore holes.

The tasks that matter most day to day

Test and analyze samples to determine their content and characteristics, using laboratory apparatus or testing equipment.
Collect or prepare solid or fluid samples for analysis.
Compile, log, or record testing or operational data for review and further analysis.
Prepare notes, sketches, geological maps, or cross-sections.
Operate or adjust equipment or apparatus used to obtain geological data.
Plan and direct activities of workers who operate equipment to collect data.
Participate in geological, geophysical, geochemical, hydrographic, or oceanographic surveys, prospecting field trips, exploratory drilling, well logging, or underground mine survey programs.
Set up or direct set-up of instruments used to collect geological data.

How to qualify for this work

Preparation level: zone 4 — Considerable preparation needed

Education: Most of these occupations require a four-year bachelor's degree, but some do not.
Experience: A considerable amount of work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is needed for these occupations. For example, an accountant must complete four years of college and work for several years in accounting to be considered qualified.
Training: Employees in these occupations usually need several years of work-related experience, on-the-job training, and/or vocational training.

See all zone 4 occupations →

The federal survey did not capture education levels for this specific occupation, so the preparation-level card above is the best guide to the entry route.

Common questions

How much does a geological technicians, except hydrologic technicians earn?

The national median is $53,350 a year. The full range runs from $35,770 at the 10th percentile to $99,560 at the 90th — entry pay sits closer to the lower figure, and experience, licensing and specialisation move you up the range.

Can you become a geological technicians, except hydrologic technicians without a degree?

Not usually — this occupation sits in preparation zone 4, where the typical entry route is most of these occupations require a four-year bachelor's degree, but some do not. The education breakdown above shows what people in the role actually reported.

Skills and knowledge you need

Core skills

Reading Comprehension3.8/5
Critical Thinking3.5/5
Writing3.3/5
Monitoring3.3/5
Active Listening3.1/5
Speaking3.0/5

Knowledge areas

Computers and Electronics3.5/5
Engineering and Technology3.5/5
Mathematics3.5/5
English Language3.5/5
Chemistry3.2/5
Physics3.1/5
Geography3.1/5
Customer and Personal Service2.6/5

Transferable strengths: Time Management, Complex Problem Solving, Judgment and Decision Making, Coordination.