Seismologist

Seismologists are scientists that study earthquakes – how and why they take place. Their duties include collecting, analysing and monitoring how the Earth moves to help predict and prevent future disasters that could harm mankind. Some of the activities which are involved with being a Seismologist include: visiting earthquake sites, mapping earthquakes and measuring the magnitude on the Richter scale, assessing the damage potential of the earthquake and forecasting possible future earthquakes.

Studying and working with earthquakes isn’t the only thing that Seismologists do. Their work spreads into assisting the building engineering industry, detecting nuclear explosions, and the Mining, Mineral or Gas industries.

A Bachelor’s degree is the minimum required qualification for this career. Depending on what you would like to specialise in regarding the world of Seismology, a Master’s or Doctorate may be the minimum requirements. Field work requires a Master’s degree and conducting research requires a Doctorate.

Working hours are generally 40 hours a week. Field work, on the other hand, tends to require work to be completed over weekends or during the night.

Seismologists earn between R153 000 and R867 000, with an average of R450 000. Bonuses are generally awarded within this career and qualification and level of experience are factors which contribute to the salary package. Location also affects the salary package.

Here are a few things you can expect from a career as a Seismologist:

• Outdoor work is part of this career, however work is also carried out indoors
• The career is physically demanding, maintaining a high health levels is beneficial
• Working hours tend to be a bit odd as work is generally conducted when an earthquake takes place
• Some field work is carried out in remote locations and moving for extended periods is something to adjust to