WORKING IN NEW ZEALAND

Studies physical aspects of the earth to determine its structure and composition, locate minerals, petroleum or ground water and to detect, monitor and forecast seismic, magnetic, electrical, thermal and oceanographic activity.

SKILL LEVEL:

The entry requirement for this occupation is a bachelor degree or higher qualification. In some instances relevant experience is required in addition to the formal qualification.

TASKS INCLUDE:

• conducts surveys of variations in the earth’s gravitational and magnetic fields to determine its physical features
• investigates the propagation of seismic waves to determine the structure and stability of the earth’s mantle and crust
• studies the causes of earthquakes and other stress states of the earth’s crust
• performs laboratory and field studies, and airborne, ground and drill hole surveys
• analyses and interprets data from studies to assist in locating water, petroleum or mineral-bearing structures and determining the structure, composition and evolution of sub-surface rocks
• investigates the physical properties of rocks under laboratory conditions
• prepares or supervises the preparation of laboratory reports and scientific papers
• may supervise and coordinate the work of technical officers and technicians
• may study the physical aspects of oceans such as density, temperature, salinity, water circulation, light and sound transmission

SPECIALISATIONS:

Physical Oceanographer

Seismologist