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Hydrologist

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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.

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.

  • 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.

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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.

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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:

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How many years of work experience do I need?

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Who Employs Hydrologists?

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The table below shows some of the most common industries where those employed in this career field work.

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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:

References:

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

More about our data sources and methodologies.

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