Collects and tests earth and water samples, records observations and analyses data in support of Geologists or Geophysicists.

Skill Level

2

Alternative Titles

• Earth Science Technical Officer

Specialisations

• Earth Science Laboratory Technician
• Geochemical Laboratory Technician
• Geological Technical Officer
• Geoscience Laboratory Technician
• Meteorological Observer
• Seismology Technical Officer
• Soil Science Technical Officer
• Water Resources Technical Officer

Unless you are exempt in very limited circumstances, you are required to have a positive Skills Assessment to apply for the visas listed above.

Skills Assessment authority for Earth Science Technician is Vocational Education and Training Assess (VETASSESS). To have a positive skills assessment, you must meet the following criteria:

• Three pathways to skills assessment by VETASSESS:
  • Pathway A- Qualification(s) assessed at least AQF Diploma level with a highly relevant field of study and at least one year of postqualification highly relevant employment at an appropriate skill level in the last five years
  • Pathway B- Qualification(s) assessed at least AQF Diploma level with an additional qualification at least AQF Certificate IV in a highly relevant field of study and at least one year of post-qualification highly relevant employment at an appropriate skill level in the last five years
  • Pathway C- Qualification(s) assessed at least AQF Diploma level without a highly relevant field of study and at least two years of post-qualification highly relevant employment at an appropriate skill level in the last five years

perform tests and experiments, and provide technical support functions to assist with research, design, production and teaching in chemistry, earth sciences, life sciences, and physical sciences.

Tasks

• preparing materials for experimentation such as freezing and slicing specimens and mixing chemicals
• collecting information and samples
• conducting field and laboratory experiments, tests and analyses
• presenting results in graphic and written form by preparing maps, charts, sketches, diagrams and reports
• performing routine mathematical calculations, and computations of measurements
• controlling the quality and quantity of laboratory supplies by testing samples and monitoring usage
• checking, calibrating and maintaining test equipment
• participating in fabricating, installing and modifying equipment to ensure that critical standards are met
• preparing experiments and demonstrations for science classes

Skill Level

Most occupations in this unit group have a level of skill commensurate with the qualifications and experience outlined below.
In Australia:
AQF Associate Degree, Advanced Diploma or Diploma (ANZSCO Skill Level 2)

In New Zealand:
NZ Register Diploma (ANZSCO Skill Level 2)

At least three years of relevant experience may substitute for the formal qualifications listed above. In some instances relevant experience and/or on-the-job training may be required in addition to the formal qualification.

Occupations in this Group

• 311411 Chemistry Technician
• 311412 Earth Science Technician
• 311413 Life Science Technician
• 311414 School Laboratory Technician
• 311415 Hydrographer
• 311499 Science Technicians nec