Geoscientists and environmental scientists use their knowledge of the physical makeup and history of the Earth to locate water, mineral, and energy resources; protect the environment; predict future geologic hazards; and offer advice on construction and land use projects.

Geoscientists study the composition, structure, and other physical aspects of the Earth. By using sophisticated instruments and analyses of the earth and water, geoscientists study the Earth's geologic past and present in order to make predictions about its future. For example, they may study the Earth's movements to try to predict when and where the next earthquake or volcano will occur and the probable impact on surrounding areas to minimize the damage. Many geoscientists are involved in the search for oil and gas, while others work closely with environmental scientists in preserving and cleaning up the environment.

Geoscientists usually study, and are subsequently classified in, one of several closely related fields of geoscience, including geology, geophysics, and oceanography. Geologists study the composition, processes, and history of the Earth. They try to find out how rocks were formed and what has happened to them since formation. They also study the evolution of life by analyzing plant and animal fossils. Geophysicists use the principles of physics, mathematics, and chemistry to study not only the Earth's surface, but also its internal composition; ground and surface waters; atmosphere; oceans; and its magnetic, electrical, and gravitational forces.  Oceanographers use their knowledge of geology and geophysics, in addition to biology and chemistry, to study the world's oceans and coastal waters. They study the motion and circulation of the ocean waters and their physical and chemical properties, and how these properties affect coastal areas, climate, and weather.

Environmental scientists conduct research to identify and abate or eliminate sources of pollutants that affect people, wildlife, and their environments. They analyze and report measurements and observations of air, water, soil, and other sources to make recommendations on how best to clean and preserve the environment. They often use their skills and knowledge to design and monitor waste disposal sites, preserve water supplies, and reclaim contaminated land and water to comply with Federal environmental regulations.

Career Sources and Professional Organizations

	Aerotek: Environmental Jobs & Staff - Provides environmental staffing and fills environmental jobs throughout the U.S. and Canada.  **NEW**
	American Water Works Association
	Brown and Caldwell - Environmental engineering and consulting jobs.
	Chevron Recruiting
	Coolworks - National & State Parks, Ski Resorts, etc.
	Cyber-Sierra's Natural Resources Job Search - a wonderful site!
	Environmental Careers Organization
	Environmental Jobs and Careers - has a nice variety
	Environmental Jobs in Environmental Career Opportunities - jobs & internships
	Environmental Organization WebDirectory - One of the best sites I have found so far.
	EnviroWorld: Florida's Enviro-Link With The World!!
	GeoJob Source
	GeoSearch, Inc. - Professional Recruitment Services
	GeoWeb Marketplace - You can view several jobs for free, but the jobs listed with GeoWeb require a subscription. A nice variety in jobs offered.
	GIS Jobs Clearinghouse - jobs all around the world in several industries.
	INFO-MINE - CareerMine
	IT Corp - Job Opportunities - They say they are the country's largest environmental management firm.
	Montgomery Watson - drinking water lab has jobs for chemists, biologists, computer scientists, engineers, etc.
	National Wildlife Federation
	Pollution Online - a great site!  Scroll down to the Career Center and click on job search.
	Professional Service Industries - for science and engineering jobs in the environmental field.
	Society of Exploration Geophysicists
	Society for American Archaeology
	Solid Waste Online News Front Page - published by Pollution Online.
	Texas Parks And Wildlife Department
	The Environmental Employment Pages - this site includes jobs for everyone who is interested in work involving the environmental field. A very good site with nice variety.
	The Society for Conservation Biology (SCB)
	Urban Planning Job Links
	U.S. Geological Survey
	USA Jobs - federal government opportunities
	Water Environment Federation
	Western U.S. GIS Job Search Sites

SAMPLE JOB TITLES

Entry Level:		Experienced:
	Civil Engineer		Environmental Scientist
	Environmental Engineer		Geochemist
	Geologist		Hydrologist
	Geoscientist		Oceanographer

ENHANCING EMPLOYABILITY

	Participate in internships and/or field experience
	Computer-related skills
	Excellent inter-personal skills
	Strong oral and written communication skills
	Strong problem-solving, decision-making skills
	Foreign language helpful
	Strong physical stamina for fieldwork