Speleologist

Median salary, education path, job outlook, and related careers — based on U.S. labor data.

What a Speleologist does

Explores and scientifically documents cave systems, studying their geology, hydrology, and unique ecosystems to advance conservation and resource management.

Education & path

The typical entry point is a master's degree. About 6 years (bachelor's + ~2-year master's).

Estimated cost of that path: ~$70,000. Estimated payback: ~6 years. Estimates only — actual cost varies widely by school and financial aid; payback assumes ~20% of income applied.

Related careers

• Nautical Cartographer — $72,000/yr
• Ice Pilot — $125,000/yr
• Aerial Survey Pilot — $88,000/yr
• Zoological Nutrition Scientist — $65,000/yr
• Tick Surveillance Biologist — $54,000/yr