Natural Resources Workers 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.

Natural Resources jobs are expected to grow faster than the average for all occupations through 2010.

Natural Resource Workers must have excellent interpersonal skills, because they usually work as part of a team with other scientists, engineers, and technicians.

Strong oral and written communication skills also are important, because writing technical reports and research proposals, as well as communicating research results to others, are important aspects of the work.

Since many jobs require foreign travel, knowledge of a second language is becoming an important attribute to employers.

A bachelor’s degree in geology or geophysics is adequate for some entry-level Natural Resources jobs, but more job opportunities and better jobs with good advancement potential usually require at least a master’s degree in related fields.

Fieldwork often requires working long hours, but Natural Resources Workers are usually rewarded by longer than normal vacations. They may have research positions with the Federal Government or in colleges and universities.