What Do Hydrologist Do?
Example of Hydrologist Job 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.
Life As 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.
- Develop or modify methods for conducting hydrologic studies.
- Review applications for site plans and permits and recommend approval, denial, modification, or further investigative action.
- Study and document quantities, distribution, disposition, and development of underground and surface waters.
- Monitor the work of well contractors, exploratory borers, and engineers and enforce rules regarding their activities.
- Collect and analyze water samples as part of field investigations or to validate data from automatic monitors.
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Things a Hydrologist Should Know How to Do
Hydrologists state the following job skills are important in their day-to-day work.
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
- Seismologist
- Hydrogeologist
- Environmental Consultant
- Geophysical Laboratory Chief
- Research 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.
Average Hydrologists Salary
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 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
How do I Become a Hydrologist?
Education needed to be a Hydrologist:
How many years of work experience do I need?
Who Employs Hydrologists?
The table below shows some of the most common industries where those employed in this career field work.
You May Also Be Interested In…
Those interested in being a Hydrologist may also be interested in:
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:
Image Credit: Kelvinsong via Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 3.0 Unported
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