Geologist

Briefly explain what you do for a living.

I work as a geologist and conduct soil surveys. I am responsible for a research project that involves soil background concentration surveys that are conducted in the vicinity of mines. Our project group has collected soil samples from these areas, and we survey different elements. At the current stage, all samples have been analysed, and we are writing reports on the results. These reports will be published in the Hakku service for geological data products.

How have you ended up in the profession of your choice?

I started my studies at the University of Helsinki as a chemistry student. After the first year, students had to apply for different majors in natural sciences through a selection procedure. I was not yet sure which field I was most interested in, so I attended a lecture on geology out of curiosity. After that, I knew I had found my major.

Describe your typical working day or week.

I have focused on reporting on the results of my research project for the past few years. I create analyses, draw maps and use various computer programs. I work in a research group, and we have regular work meetings during which we work on concentration maps, for instance. I also participate in group and unit meetings every week.

What kind of work environment or working hours do you have?

My work is mostly remote, but I also regularly work at our office in Espoo. Taking soil samples requires travelling around Finland. Several geologists at Geological Survey of Finland are also involved in international projects, which may involve extensive travel and, if necessary, longer assignments abroad.

I work on weekdays and can also use flexitime.

What kind of competence or qualities are required in the profession?

Basic knowledge of geology and chemistry is important. Geologists may also specialise in different areas, such as bedrock, soil or water. In my work, I need to understand environmental legislation, for example. Digital skills are particularly useful, as new programs are constantly emerging. Understanding statistics is also important, as I need to calculate and interpret different statistical parameters in my work.

What is the best thing about your profession?

The best thing about my profession is that my work is connected to the environment and nature. I have worked with highly skilled and experienced people and learned a lot from them. I have been impressed by the depth of my colleagues’ competence, especially in the early stages of my career. I also like the opportunity to plan my own schedule and to decide on my holidays fairly freely.

What are the downsides of the profession or what seems challenging?

The administrative tasks related to my work may sometimes feel burdensome, as there are currently considerably fewer assistants in public services than there used to be. The researchers themselves manage the practical arrangements, and this takes time that could be used for actual research. Also, preparing funding applications is not always my favourite task, but it too must be done.

What would you tell a person considering the profession of a geologist?

Geologists have many specialisation options, such as marine geology, bedrock geology or palaeontology. Geologists who know how to model are in high demand at the moment.

Geologists need to be curious and willing to learn something new. If you like routine work, this profession may not be the best option for you.

How do you see the future of your profession?

Geologists have good employment prospects. Many mining geologists will be needed in the future, but there will also be demand for the skillset of environmental geologists. EU decision-making has a significant impact on the development of the field. If the EU decides to increase the recycling and sustainable exploitation of rare earth metals, it will create new job opportunities for geologists.