Geological Technicians, Except Hydrologic Technicians

Task by task

Each task this job involves, as listed by O*NET, rated on whether a large language model like GPT-4 could cut the time it takes by at least half at the same quality. Tasks marked Seen in real AI use appeared in conversations with Claude in April–May 2026 (Anthropic Economic Index).

• AI can speed this up on its own: 1 (3%)
• AI can speed this up with extra software: 21 (70%)
• Little or no AI speed-up: 8 (27%)

• Assemble, maintain, or distribute information for library or record systems.AI can speed this up on its own · core task
• Test and analyze samples to determine their content and characteristics, using laboratory apparatus or testing equipment.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task
• Compile, log, or record testing or operational data for review and further analysis.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task · Seen in real AI use
• Prepare notes, sketches, geological maps, or cross-sections.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task
• Prepare or review professional, technical, or other reports regarding sampling, testing, or recommendations of data analysis.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task · Seen in real AI use
• Read and study reports in order to compile information and data for geological and geophysical prospecting.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task
• Interview individuals, and research public databases in order to obtain information.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task
• Plot information from aerial photographs, well logs, section descriptions, or other databases.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task
• Plan and direct activities of workers who operate equipment to collect data.AI can speed this up with extra software · supplemental task
• Record readings in order to compile data used in prospecting for oil or gas.AI can speed this up with extra software · supplemental task
• Create photographic recordings of information, using equipment.AI can speed this up with extra software · supplemental task
• Participate in the evaluation of possible mining locations.AI can speed this up with extra software · supplemental task
• Assess the environmental impacts of development projects on subsurface materials.AI can speed this up with extra software · supplemental task
• Evaluate and interpret core samples and cuttings, and other geological data used in prospecting for oil or gas.AI can speed this up with extra software · supplemental task
• Develop and design packing materials and handling procedures for shipping of objects.AI can speed this up with extra software · supplemental task
• Collaborate with hydrogeologists to evaluate groundwater or well circulation.AI can speed this up with extra software · supplemental task
• Apply new technologies, such as improved seismic imaging techniques, to locate untapped oil or natural gas deposits.AI can speed this up with extra software
• Collect data on underground areas, such as reservoirs, that could be used in carbon sequestration operations.AI can speed this up with extra software
• Collect geological data from potential geothermal energy plant sites.AI can speed this up with extra software
• Compile data used to address environmental issues, such as the suitability of potential landfill sites.AI can speed this up with extra software
• Conduct geophysical surveys of potential sites for wind farms or solar installations to determine their suitability.AI can speed this up with extra software
• Evaluate and interpret seismic data with the aid of computers.AI can speed this up with extra software
• Collect or prepare solid or fluid samples for analysis.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Participate in geological, geophysical, geochemical, hydrographic, or oceanographic surveys, prospecting field trips, exploratory drilling, well logging, or underground mine survey programs.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Adjust or repair testing, electrical, or mechanical equipment or devices.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Operate or adjust equipment or apparatus used to obtain geological data.Little or no AI speed-up · supplemental task
• Set up or direct set-up of instruments used to collect geological data.Little or no AI speed-up · supplemental task
• Measure geological characteristics used in prospecting for oil or gas, using measuring instruments.Little or no AI speed-up · supplemental task
• Supervise well exploration, drilling activities, or well completions.Little or no AI speed-up · supplemental task
• Inspect engines for wear or defective parts, using equipment or measuring devices.Little or no AI speed-up · supplemental task