What Does it Take to Be a Hydrologist?
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.
What Do Hydrologists Do On a Daily Basis?
- Measure and graph phenomena such as lake levels, stream flows, and changes in water volumes.
- Develop computer models for hydrologic predictions.
- Apply research findings to help minimize the environmental impacts of pollution, waterborne diseases, erosion, and sedimentation.
- Prepare hydrogeologic evaluations of known or suspected hazardous waste sites and land treatment and feedlot facilities.
- Coordinate and supervise the work of professional and technical staff, including research assistants, technologists, and technicians.
- Study and analyze the physical aspects of the earth in terms of hydrological components, including atmosphere, hydrosphere, and interior structure.
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Skills Needed to be a Hydrologist
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.
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.
Related Job Titles
- Groundwater Consultant
- Isotope Hydrologist
- Hydrogeologist
- Environmental Consultant
- Hydrologist
Are There Job Opportunities for Hydrologists?
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. There will be an estimated 700 positions for Hydrologist per 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.
What is the Average Salary of a Hydrologist
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 each U.S. state?
| 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?
Although they’re not necessarily needed for all jobs, the following technologies are used by many Hydrologists:
- 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
Becoming a Hydrologist
Education needed to be a Hydrologist:
What work experience do I need to become a Hydrologist?
Where Hydrologists Work
Below are examples of industries where Hydrologists work:
Similar 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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