• Determines the resources present by sampling, examining and analysing geological specimens, rock cores, cuttings and samples using optical, chemical, electronic and mechanical techniques; surveys 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 aerial, ground and drill hole surveys.

• Frequently works indoors in offices and laboratories within universities and research facilities. Work indoors is likely to be in adequately heated, ventilated and clean, well maintained workspaces.

• Frequent work outdoors may be required in a wide range of locations that at times may be described as hostile, including oil drilling sites, on mountains, in the desert and at volcanic sites. Protective clothing and equipment will be required. When outdoors may work in all weathers.

• Occasional travel to fieldwork sites may be required.

• Medium to occasionally heavy physical demand.

• Sits frequently in office and laboratory areas. Stands and walks frequently in field situations to enable the setting up of equipment, observation of phenomena and collection of samples. Terrain may be dangerous.

• Occasional stretching, reaching, bending, squatting or crouching may be required to allow for the undertaking of tests and the collection of samples.

• Occasional lifting, carrying or pulling may be required.

• Moving, carrying or assembling research equipment on site within medium to heavy physical demand.

• Occasional contact with skin irritants or water depending on the worksite context.

• Occasional to frequent repetitive hand and finger movements are required when using hand-held objects and equipment including writing materials, the use of computers and laboratory and research equipment that may include GPS, electronic sensor and surveying equipment.

• Driving of vehicles for fieldwork will be required.

• Mental skills necessary include a high level of cognitive functioning with technical, practical, computing, research, analytical, mathematical, surveying, report writing, mathematical, communication, interpersonal, planning, organisational, problem solving, critical thinking and decision-making capabilities

• A relevant tertiary qualification or at least five years applicable experience (ANZSCO Skill Level 1). In some cases particular experience and/or on-job training may be required.