Headline risk
3%
Very Low RiskGeological technicians, except hydrologic technicians
AI displacement pressure score for United States AI Work Index, combining global AI task overlap with local wages, employment trends, and demand signals.
Why This Score
Share of job tasks that overlap with current AI capabilities
Median annual wage
Projected employment change over 10 years
Typical preparation needed for this occupation
Occupation profile
Assist scientists or engineers in the use of electronic, sonic, or nuclear measuring instruments in laboratory, exploration, and production activities to obtain data indicating resources such as metallic ore, minerals, gas, coal, or petroleum. Analyze mud and drill cuttings. Chart pressure, temperature, and other characteristics of wells or bore holes.
Task evidence
100% weighted task match · 25% effective coverage
Scores combine AI task overlap, human advantages, and local demand. How it works
United States Now
Median Wage
USD 48,390
Employment 2024
9.8K
Projected Change (2024–34)
1.5%
Openings (2024–34)
1.3K
Wage distribution
Demand outlook
Overall employment of geological and hydrologic technicians is projected to show little or no change from 2024 to 2034.
Role Profile
Tasks
- 1. Test and analyze samples to determine their content and characteristics, using laboratory apparatus or testing equipment. AI use: 99%
- 2. Collect or prepare solid or fluid samples for analysis. AI use: 0%
- 3. Compile, log, or record testing or operational data for review and further analysis. AI use: 99%
- 4. Prepare notes, sketches, geological maps, or cross-sections. AI use: 0%
- 5. Adjust or repair testing, electrical, or mechanical equipment or devices. AI use: 0%
- 6. Prepare or review professional, technical, or other reports regarding sampling, testing, or recommendations of data analysis. AI use: 0%
Technologies
Requirements
Work context
Worker profile
Median age 41.1 · 385K employed
Under 25: 10% · 25–54: 69% · 55+: 21%
Related
Source coverage
11/11 source families · O*NET 30.2 / OEWS 2024 / ORS 2025 / OOH 2025-08-28 / Projections 2024-34 / CPS 2025 / Anthropic task penetration
Data quality
Employment data available
Narrative & sources
Geological and hydrologic technicians support scientists and engineers in exploring, extracting, and monitoring natural resources.
Geological and hydrologic technicians work in offices, laboratories, and the field. Most geological and hydrologic technicians work full time.
Geological and hydrologic technicians typically need an associate’s degree or 2 years of postsecondary training in applied science or a science-related technology. Some jobs may require a bachelor’s degree. Geological and hydrologic technicians also receive on-the-job training.
The median annual wage for geological technicians, except hydrologic technicians was $48,390 in May 2024.
Overall employment of geological and hydrologic technicians is projected to show little or no change from 2024 to 2034.
Important context
This score measures structural AI displacement pressure, not actual job losses. Local wages and demand data are specific to United States AI Work Index; the underlying AI task overlap analysis is consistent across all countries.