Prospects depend on the employing organisation. Some have posts for team leaders or co-ordinators, some may also allow entry into general management. But it is more likely that geologists will progress into posts as senior or head geologists to cover a particular project or group of projects. Oil and engineering geologists move around a great deal between jobs, between employers and around the world. It should be realised that although many geological careers start with outdoor jobs, most of the senior appointments are office based.
Prospects are therefore good for promotion to senior scientific and management posts.
With experience it is possible to set up a consultancy. Most jobs for geologists are in or related to the petroleum industry and in particular, the exploration for oil and gas. This industry is subject to cyclical fluctuations. Since new sources of oil and gas must eventually be found exploration activities will increase in the future. When this transpires, geologists probably will have better employment opportunities.