STEM geology careers are some of the best jobs on Earth — literally. Check out what these professionals do, what they earn, and how to become one.

Working outside, studying the Earth’s soil and water, geologists provide information about the Earth for map-making, environmental health, and industries such as energy, farming, and construction. There are many jobs in this field, so we chose five of our favorites to look at in greater depth. One of these incredible geology careers might just be right for you.

1. Geologist

Understanding just what the soil is made up of is the job of the geologist. The samples taken outside are analyzed in a laboratory and the geologist reports on the findings. The information is important to consider when developing or using the land, making sure the environment is protected and the land used responsibly. This geology career pays a median salary of $89,790 and employment is expected to grow 14 percent through 2026. A bachelor’s degree in geoscience is required, and some earn a master’s degree before starting a career as a geologist. Geologists may find jobs with environmental or energy firms, mining companies, or military and federal organizations.

2. Environmental Field Technician

This geology career involves the testing for pollution in soil, water, and air. Some also monitor systems such as wastewater treatment for pollution. Environmental field technicians take samples and analyze soil and water using microscopes, sampling monitors, and lead sampling kits. They work for agencies or companies that must make sure they meet environmental standards and guard against pollution. An associate’s degree in environmental science, environmental health, or public health is required. An internship is often included and some states require licensing. A median salary of $44,190 is earned in this geology career, which has a projected job growth of nine percent.

3. Drilling Project Manager

Pursuing this geology career will place you in charge of drilling operations for an energy corporation. As the person in charge, you must ensure the project is successful and the site is a safe environment for everyone who works there. The drilling project manager must not only achieve quality work, but keep the project on budget and attain the employer’s goals. Aspiring drilling project managers must have at least an associate’s degree in geology, oil technology, or engineering and experience in drilling operations as well as management. One of the best-paying geology careers, drilling project managers earn a median salary of $101,514.

4. Field Seismologist

Earthquakes fascinate field seismologists, and working in the field provides information about why earthquakes happen, why they start and stop, and how the damage they cause can be minimized. Future field seismologists pursue this geology career to research the movement of the earth’s crust and identify the signs that signal an earthquake. A bachelor’s degree in geology or physics gives a good foundation for a master’s degree in seismology or geophysics. A median salary of $91,920 is earned by the field seismologist who may work in oil exploration, engineering and environmental consulting firms, financial institutions and insurance companies, or government departments and agencies.

5. Hydrogeologist

A geology career that concentrates on the way groundwater beneath the Earth’s surface moves through soil and rock, the hydrogeologist is the watchdog for clean water supplies. In this job, the goal is to help people stay healthy and not become sick from contaminated water. To accomplish this, the hydrogeologist must develop and use regulations to ensure water safety. If contamination does occur, those in this geology career work with others to clean up the pollution. After earning a bachelor’s degree in hydrogeology, environmental engineering, or environmental sciences,  hydrogeologists may earn a median salary of $63,000.

All geology careers are based on the study of the Earth’s soil, rock, or water. Fascination with just what makes up the Earth and how it can be protected can be the start of a great job. If you choose one of these geology careers, your office could be anywhere on Earth.