To become a mining geologist, you should determine the schooling and job experience that you need to gain. Generally, researching what potential employers want through job descriptions can help you plan for a career as a mining geologist. Other sources that can help you plan your career include high school or college guidance counselors, potential employers, and other mining or geology professionals. Often people learn how to become a mining geologist by speaking to people who are actively working the job.
Many times job advertisements can give a person valuable information about how to become a mining geologist. Typically, an ad will list the job duties, education required, and other information, such as required certifications or job experience. For example, one employer might require a mining geologist to have experience with specific computer software and mining systems. You frequently can find detailed job descriptions through online employment agencies or guidance counselors.
By studying the job descriptions, you can learn whether employers want applicants to have a college degree. Often the school requirements vary from employer to employer, but generally employers expect less education for entry-level mining geologists than for senior geologists. An example is a mining company that requires junior geologists to have a bachelor's degree in geology and a few years of experience as a field geologist. The same company requires a senior geologist to have a master's degree and actually prefers the applicant to have a doctorate in geology. Another company lists that a geologist needs at least a bachelor's degree and two or more year of field experience or a master's degree and one year of experience.
If you are attending college or planning to attend, you may consult a school guidance counselor for advice. When choosing a school, you should pick one that focuses on the sciences, such as geology and earth sciences. It is helpful if the school has a job placement program or has a work-study program that will count as work experience. Some school courses that will help you to become a mining geologist are computer-related subjects, mathematics, and communication. Often mining geologists need to communicate orally and in writing with superiors, other company employees, and various government agencies.
One of the best ways to learn how to become a mining geologist is to shadow a working geologist. Sometimes companies will allow prospective students to work with a mentor at the job. Other companies allow people to apprentice at the job. In some circumstances, it is possible to work at a mining company while attending school, and some companies will fully or partially pay for an employee's schooling.