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Hydrocarbons Field Geologists Award pay rates 2026–27
The minimum hourly rates and penalty rates under the Hydrocarbons Field Geologists Award 2020 [MA000064], in force from 1 July 2026. The lowest adult rate is $7.01 an hour, or $8.76 for casuals.
Minimum hourly rates
Adult rates per hour. The casual rate includes the casual loading. Junior, apprentice and trainee rates are set separately in the award.
| Classification | Full-time & part-time | Casual |
|---|---|---|
| Daily rig allowance (per full day worked) — Trainee | $7.01 | $8.76 |
| Minimum hourly rate — Trainee mudlogger | $27.31 | $34.14 |
| Minimum hourly rate — Competent mudlogger | $27.31 | $34.14 |
| Minimum hourly rate — Senior mudlogger | $31.36 | $39.20 |
| Minimum hourly rate — Trainee mudlogger (has a bachelor of science in geology) | $33.71 | $42.14 |
| Minimum hourly rate — Competent mudlogger (has a bachelor of science in geology) | $33.71 | $42.14 |
| Minimum hourly rate — Senior mudlogger (has a bachelor of science in geology) | $33.71 | $42.14 |
| Bachelor of Science in Geology | $33.82 | $42.28 |
| Minimum hourly rate — Data engineer | $35.33 | $44.16 |
Source: the Fair Work Commission's published rates. Check them against the award or the Fair Work Ombudsman's pay guide.
Hydrocarbons Field Geologists Award: common questions
What is the minimum pay rate under the Hydrocarbons Field Geologists Award?
From 1 July 2026, the lowest adult classification, Daily rig allowance (per full day worked) — Trainee, is $7.01 an hour for full-time and part-time employees and $8.76 an hour for casuals, which includes the casual loading. Higher classifications are paid more; the full table is on this page.
When do Hydrocarbons Field Geologists Award pay rates change?
The Fair Work Commission reviews minimum wages every year, and new rates usually apply from the first full pay period on or after 1 July. The rates on this page apply from 1 July 2026.
How do I check a payslip against the Hydrocarbons Field Geologists Award?
Upload the payslip to FairCheck's free payslip check. It reads the pay lines, confirms the award and classification with you, and shows whether the rates, penalties and super meet this award, with the reasoning for every line.