Geochemist

Geochemistry uses the tools of chemistry to understand the mechanisms behind major geological systems (ie. the earth).  Geochemists, equipped with an expert-level-grasp of geology and chemistry, provide companies and research facilities with further insight into natural resources, geological processes and the earth in general. Your research can be used to discover natural resources or can help to better our environment by reducing pollutants or increasing water quality. Common job opportunities are with oil and gas companies, environmental consultancies and research facilities.

You will have to gain an undergraduate degree in one of the following relevant Science-based fields (Bachelor of Science), from a university. Relevant degree areas include physical, mathematical and applied sciences, and engineering. Majors that would suit a Geochemist are as follows (but not limited to): 

• chemical engineering
• earth sciences
• environmental sciences
• Geochemistry
• Chemistry 
• geology
• geophysics or geotechnology
• marine sciences or oceanography
• mineral or mining engineering

An undergraduate degree in the sciences is required for a degree for this career, but any opportunities to gain knowledge about the industry and this job should be taken to better your chances of being hired (for example, university vacation work or an internship). Furthering your studies to an honours/ masters level will also improve your hireability and expertise.

As a Geochemist, you will be working in the field often (ie. playing with rocks, outside, A LOT), so a standard 9-5 job is pretty much off the cards for you. Weekend work is common, leaving some weekdays free. Work days can have long, irregular hours, and the job often requires frequent travel around the country or overseas from time to time. However, the hours are flexible and can often be decided by you.

As a Geochemist, you can expect to earn anywhere around the South African average yearly salary of R500 000 – R700 000, depending on the company that you work for.  American companies are always looking for Geochemists, with an average salary of about $66 000 (roughly R900 000!). 

As a Geochemist, you should expect an academic, hands-on career. You will like this career if you are someone who likes to work in the field collecting samples and analysing laboratory test work or be involved in administration and operations management. This industry is international, providing opportunities to live and work abroad, so enjoying travel is a must. Geochemists love getting their sandy-fingers on state-of-the-art scientific equipment to analyse rocks, soil and other minerals.