The major employers of geological scientists include geophysical contractors, well-logging contractors, oil companies, civil engineering firms, extractive industries, and waste disposal. Opportunities in mining area few but overseas demand is fair for experienced staff. Quarrying opportunities depend on the demand for building materials. Hydrologists are employed by water boards and civil engineering firms. Openings in the public sector are very few at present.
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.