Life As a Hydrologist
Hydrologist Example 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.
List of Hydrologist Job Duties
- Collect and analyze water samples as part of field investigations or to validate data from automatic monitors.
- Design civil works associated with hydrographic activities and supervise their construction, installation, and maintenance.
- Monitor the work of well contractors, exploratory borers, and engineers and enforce rules regarding their activities.
- Study public water supply issues, including flood and drought risks, water quality, wastewater, and impacts on wetland habitats.
- Install, maintain, and calibrate instruments such as those that monitor water levels, rainfall, and sediments.
- Compile and evaluate hydrologic information to prepare navigational charts and maps and to predict atmospheric conditions.
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What Every Hydrologist Should Know
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
- Geologist
- Groundwater Consultant
- Volcanologist
- Hydrogeologist
- Environmental Consultant
Is There Job 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. 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.
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?
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
What education or degrees do I need to become a Hydrologist?
How many years of work experience do I need?
Where do Hydrologists Work?
Hydrologists work in the following industries:
You May Also Be Interested In…
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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