Life As a Hydrologist

Job Description: Research the distribution, circulation, and physical properties of underground and surface waters; and study the form and intensity of precipitation, its rate of infiltration into the soil, movement through the earth, and its return to the ocean and atmosphere.

Hydrologist Responsibilities

• Prepare hydrogeologic evaluations of known or suspected hazardous waste sites and land treatment and feedlot facilities.
• Study and document quantities, distribution, disposition, and development of underground and surface waters.
• Develop or modify methods for conducting hydrologic studies.
• Study public water supply issues, including flood and drought risks, water quality, wastewater, and impacts on wetland habitats.
• Apply research findings to help minimize the environmental impacts of pollution, waterborne diseases, erosion, and sedimentation.
• Evaluate research data in terms of its impact on issues such as soil and water conservation, flood control planning, and water supply forecasting.

Things a Hydrologist Should Know How to Do

Below is a list of the skills most Hydrologists say are important on the job.

Critical Thinking: Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.

Active Listening: Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.

Science: Using scientific rules and methods to solve problems.

Reading Comprehension: Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.

Complex Problem Solving: Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.

Speaking: Talking to others to convey information effectively.

Types of Hydrologist

• Geophysical Laboratory Chief
• Geophysicist
• Scientist
• Groundwater Programs Director
• Physical Scientist

Is There Going to be Demand for Hydrologists?

In the United States, there were 6,700 jobs for Hydrologist in 2016. New jobs are being produced at a rate of 10.4% which is above the national average. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts 700 new jobs for Hydrologist by 2026. Due to new job openings and attrition, there will be an average of 700 job openings in this field each year.

The states with the most job growth for Hydrologist are Utah, Arkansas, and Colorado. Watch out if you plan on working in Wyoming, South Dakota, or Maryland. These states have the worst job growth for this type of profession.

Do Hydrologists Make A Lot Of Money?

The salary for Hydrologists ranges between about $48,820 and $122,890 a year.

Hydrologists who work in New Jersey, Maryland, or Georgia, make the highest salaries.

How much do Hydrologists make in different U.S. states?

State	Annual Mean Salary
Alaska	$88,050
Arizona	$72,380
California	$99,080
Colorado	$93,750
Florida	$81,170
Georgia	$105,230
Idaho	$47,990
Illinois	$82,150
Indiana	$87,930
Louisiana	$64,370
Maine	$77,910
Maryland	$100,280
Massachusetts	$73,640
Michigan	$77,050
Minnesota	$75,110
Montana	$74,660
Nebraska	$63,440
Nevada	$87,640
New Hampshire	$95,520
New Jersey	$109,910
New Mexico	$88,640
New York	$75,560
North Carolina	$71,450
North Dakota	$71,890
Ohio	$79,680
Oklahoma	$88,370
Oregon	$86,020
South Carolina	$54,220
Tennessee	$87,440
Texas	$78,240
Utah	$86,270
Virginia	$90,330
Washington	$88,370
Wisconsin	$66,850
Wyoming	$65,690

What Tools do Hydrologists Use?

Below is a list of the types of tools and technologies that Hydrologists may use on a daily basis:

• Microsoft Excel
• Microsoft Word
• Microsoft Office
• Microsoft PowerPoint
• Web browser software
• Python
• Microsoft Access
• Email software
• Word processing software
• Data visualization software
• Autodesk AutoCAD
• Spreadsheet software
• Database software
• The MathWorks MATLAB
• Microsoft Visual Basic
• Geographic information system GIS software
• Graphics software
• Bentley MicroStation
• ESRI ArcView
• Microsoft Active Server Pages ASP

How to Become a Hydrologist

Education needed to be a Hydrologist:

How Long Does it Take to Become a Hydrologist?

Where do Hydrologists Work?

Below are examples of industries where Hydrologists work:

You May Also Be Interested In…

Those thinking about becoming a Hydrologist might also be interested in the following careers:

• Cartographers and Photogrammetrists

Are you already one of the many Hydrologist in the United States? If you’re thinking about changing careers, these fields are worth exploring:

• Mining and Geological Engineers, Including Mining Safety Engineers
• First-Line Supervisors of Aquacultural Workers

References:

• Bureau of Labor Statistics
• College Factual
• O*NET Online

Image Credit: Kelvinsong via Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 3.0 Unported

More about our data sources and methodologies.