What is a Hydrologist?
Position 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.
A Day in the Life of a Hydrologist
- Evaluate research data in terms of its impact on issues such as soil and water conservation, flood control planning, and water supply forecasting.
- Conduct short- and long-term climate assessments and study storm occurrences.
- Review applications for site plans and permits and recommend approval, denial, modification, or further investigative action.
- Study public water supply issues, including flood and drought risks, water quality, wastewater, and impacts on wetland habitats.
- Evaluate data and provide recommendations regarding the feasibility of municipal projects, such as hydroelectric power plants, irrigation systems, flood warning systems, and waste treatment facilities.
- Answer questions and provide technical assistance and information to contractors or the public regarding issues such as well drilling, code requirements, hydrology, and geology.
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Hydrologist Needed Skills
These are the skills Hydrologists say are the most useful in their careers:
Critical Thinking: Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
Reading Comprehension: Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.
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.
Speaking: Talking to others to convey information effectively.
Mathematics: Using mathematics to solve problems.
Types of Hydrologist Jobs
- Geophysical Laboratory Chief
- Environmental Consultant
- Isotope Hydrologist
- Geologist
- Volcanologist
What Kind of Hydrologist Job Opportunities Are There?
There were about 6,700 jobs for Hydrologist in 2016 (in the United States). 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. The BLS estimates 700 yearly job openings in this field.
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.
Salary for a Hydrologist
Hydrologists make between $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 & Technology 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
Learn what Hydrologist education requirements there are.
How many years of work experience do I need?
Where Hydrologists Work
Hydrologists work in the following industries:
Related Careers
Those thinking about becoming a Hydrologist might also be interested in the following careers:
Those who work as a Hydrologist sometimes switch careers to one of these choices:
- Mining and Geological Engineers, Including Mining Safety Engineers
- First-Line Supervisors of Aquacultural Workers
References:
Image Credit: Kelvinsong via Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 3.0 Unported
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