Hydrologist Job Description, Skills, and Salary
Get to know about the duties, responsibilities, qualifications, and skills requirements of a hydrologist. Feel free to use our hydrologist job description template to produce your own. We also provide you with information about the salary you can earn as a hydrologist.
Who is a Hydrologist?
Hydrology is the science that studies water on Earth. Hydrologists study the qualities of water, its distribution, and its effects on the Earth’s surface to gain a better understanding of the complex and linked processes that govern life on Earth. The world’s oceans are normally not included in this field; rather, they are examined by oceanographers, but a hydrologist may occasionally be called to test ocean water samples.
As you may expect, hydrology has a wide variety of applications. Hydrologists are involved in the development of flood control programs, irrigation projects, and hydroelectric generation plans. They also do research on water for domestic and industrial use, and they frequently work as part of a team on projects ranging from skyscraper construction to pollution remediation. Many hydrologists specialize in a particular aspect of their profession, such as groundwater contamination or river flow.
Additionally, this land is pretty ancient. Humans harnessed water thousands of years before the advent of Christ to irrigate fields and supply energy for chores such as milling wheat. Hydrology was particularly critical for those living in low-lying, flood-prone areas, as it enabled them to take actions to lessen the risk of flooding and maybe foresee it. The Roman Aqueduct, one of the most complex hydrological projects of all time, was completed in 300 BCE to supply running water to the city of Rome.
A hydrologist’s training encompasses a broad range of disciplines, including chemistry, geology, soil science, and engineering. Depending on the hydrologist’s emphasis, studies in policy and planning may also be required, as hydrologists are frequently relied upon to assess land before it can be developed and to work on programs that provide usable water to towns, industries, and farms.
The hydrosphere, the Earth’s network of interconnected water systems, is a key topic of hydrology research. The hydrosphere’s activity causes water to circulate continuously, a process known as the hydrologic cycle. The hydrologic cycle transports water through the ground, along the Earth’s surface, and into the sky, repurposing water molecules daily. For example, the water you drink may have been consumed by another person or animal at some time in its history and may have lain dormant in the earth for generations, or it may have arrived in your reservoir last week with a batch of rain. As you can expect, studying this cycle and the factors that disrupt it is a critical component of the subject of hydrology.
A hydrologist conducts significant field and laboratory research to determine the physical parameters of the earth’s water systems. He or she may investigate the importance of water in an ecosystem, the amount of rainfall in a particular area, or the presence of pollutants in water samples. The majority of hydrologists work for universities, private research institutions, government agencies, environmental advocacy groups, and engineering consulting firms.
Hydrologists in research frequently devote months, if not years, to specific projects that require monitoring changes in water systems over time. A scientist may ascertain the amount of ground or surface water in a specific location, the rate of precipitation, and the various ways in which people, plants, and animals use water. Additionally, he or she may collect data on the adverse or beneficial consequences of human activity on a marine ecosystem.
A hydrologist may collect samples directly from lakes, streams, or other bodies of water to determine the water’s composition and to check for pollution. Additionally, he or she may collect surrounding soil and plant samples to ascertain the impacts of water contamination on living organisms. Hydrologists frequently undertake multiple laboratory tests to confirm their conclusions and then produce thorough scholarly papers about their findings.
Outside of research institutes, scientists may find employment with engineering corporations, federal and state governments, and nonprofit environmental organizations. Those engaged by engineering and consulting organizations guarantee that constructions and industries cause the least amount of disruption to surrounding water sources as feasible. They may be in charge of developing efficient, clean water systems for internal usage or of developing waste management plans that have a minimal impact on the environment. Government and nonprofit hydrologists are frequently involved in conservation and education programs, educating the public about the dangers of contaminating water systems and squandering precious water resources.
A hydrologist normally requires a master’s degree in hydrology, environmental science, or a closely related scientific area. Numerous government personnel, university teachers, and self-employed researchers hold Ph.D. degrees. Additional license or certification is normally not necessary, though a hydrologist may elect to sit for a certifying exam sponsored by a nationally recognized organization, such as the American Institute of Hydrology in the United States.
The majority of new scientists begin their careers as field and laboratory assistants, where they get firsthand knowledge of practical research methodologies from seasoned hydrologists. Assistants may be tasked with the responsibility of conducting experiments, entering data, and evaluating findings. After gaining experience as an assistant, a hydrologist who demonstrates competency can begin planning new projects and doing autonomous research.
Hydrologist Job Description
Below are the hydrologist job description examples you can use to develop your resume or write a hydrologist job description for your employee. Employers can also use it to sieve out job seekers when choosing candidates for interviews.
The duties and responsibilities of a hydrologist include the following:
- Conducting fieldwork to collect water and soil samples for study, as well as employing monitoring equipment to determine the attributes of water bodies, such as a river’s volume.
- Analyzing obtained samples to identify any concerns, such as pollutants.
- Analyzing data about the effects of pollution, drought, and erosion, among other topics.
- Predicting phenomena such as droughts, floods, water supply availability, and pollution movement using computer models.
- Evaluating the environmental impact of a variety of projects, from hydroelectric power plants to wastewater treatment plants.
- Creating graphs, charts, and written reports outlining their findings, and delivering them to clients or other stakeholders.
- Conducting studies on storm and watershed water
- Determining the amount of groundwater pollution
- Installing apparatus to monitor water quality
- Collaborating with federal, state, and local government and law enforcement agencies
- Writing reports
- Preparing hydrogeology data maps
- Presenting findings orally
- Planning and collecting surface or groundwater data, as well as monitoring them, to support projects and programs.
- Collaborating with local, state, and federal government agencies to address water resource concerns
- Researching watersheds and stormwater
- Proceeding with the processing of meteorological, snow, and hydrologic data.
- Creating a variety of maps and figures, including contour maps of groundwater heights, geologic structure, cross-sections, isopachs, and water quality data.
- Installing and maintaining instruments for water property and water quality measurements.
- Determining the nature and extent of groundwater contamination
- Writing reports and delivering oral presentations
- Collecting samples of surface water, groundwater, and soil to determine their chemical composition. For instance, to determine pollution levels.
Qualifications
To work as a hydrologist, you must possess the following degrees, certifications, and experience:
Bachelor’s degrees
A bachelor’s degree is required to work as a hydrologist. A master’s degree is required to climb to a higher position. Your degree must be in hydrology or a related field such as geology, environmental science, or engineering with an emphasis in hydrology or water science. A doctoral degree is required if you wish to conduct advanced research or hold a highly desirable job on a university faculty.
Licenses
Certain states require hydrologists to obtain licenses from state licensing bodies. You must achieve specific educational and experience requirements and pass an examination to obtain one.
Certifications
Additionally, you can apply to the American Institute of Hydrology for voluntary certification (AIH). To become certified, you must possess a bachelor’s degree and five years of relevant work experience, a master’s degree and four years of relevant work experience, or a doctorate and three years of relevant work experience. Additionally, you must pass a two-part written examination.
Experience
As an entry-level hydrologist, you will most likely begin your career as a research assistant or technician in a laboratory or office setting. Alternatively, you may pursue a career in field exploration. With experience, you can advance to the position of project leader, program manager, or senior researcher. Internships provide an excellent opportunity to get experience. For budding hydrologists, the American Water Resources Association (AWRA) advertises internship and job opportunities.
Essential Skills
Hydrologists accomplish their tasks using a combination of technical and soft abilities. Technical skills, such as sample collection and operation of specialized equipment, are typically acquired during higher education or laboratory experiences. However, soft skills, such as the ability to communicate complicated information to others and collaborate with a variety of professionals on water supply challenges, are also necessary for success as a hydrologist. Among the necessary abilities for a hydrologist are the following:
- Critical Thinking
Hydrologists employ critical thinking abilities to design plans and methods for addressing water supply issues.
- Analytical skills
A thorough review of field data can assist you in determining the current state of water quality and identifying trends over time.
- Computer skills
Because hydrologists rely on computer software to understand data and estimate future events, proficiency with these systems is required for the job.
- Physical endurance
Fieldwork may entail hiking to isolated sites with heavy equipment and collecting samples by wading or swimming.
- Organization and time management
Hydrologists frequently oversee many research projects, making it critical to be able to fulfill deadlines and manage their workload effectively.
- Interpersonal skills
Hydrologists are capable of communicating well with a variety of other professionals, including local government officials, scientists, and engineers. Additionally, they might develop excellent professional ties with others.
How to Become a Hydrologist
- Completion of a bachelor’s degree
A minimum of a four-year bachelor’s degree in one of the following fields is required to become a hydrologist:
- Environmental science Hydrology
- Geoscience Engineering (with a focus on hydrology or water science)
Make certain you research the degree possibilities offered by various schools and universities to pick the ideal fit for you.
- Obtain certification
While certifications are an optional step, they can significantly assist you to get a competitive edge over your colleagues. This could be because certificates are voluntary credentials. By obtaining one or more hydrology-related certificates, you demonstrate to employers that you are willing to go above and beyond the minimum educational requirements.
The American Institute of Hydrology offers two hydrology certifications that will help you improve your abilities and employability in your area. They are as follows:
- Hydrologic Technician Certification
This certification program consists of three levels. Level one is appropriate for entry-level professionals, while level three is appropriate for more experienced industry professionals. By completing continuing education classes and passing an exam, you can work your way up to a level three certification.
- Professional Hydrology Certification
You can earn this certification after each academic level in addition to many years of job experience. This qualification is available after five years of work experience following a bachelor’s degree, four years following a master’s degree or three years following a doctorate. Along with the academic and job experience requirements, you will be required to pass an examination.
- Obtain your license.
State licensing criteria for practicing hydrologists differ. You must review your state’s requirements. This may entail a minimum level of schooling and another exam. After obtaining your license, you can begin working as a licensed hydrologist.
- Accumulate work experience
In many cases, entry-level employment in hydrology entails work as a laboratory research technician or assistant. While enrolled in a bachelor’s or master’s program, you can gain experience through internships in labs or offices. Certain entry-level and internship employment include field exploration responsibilities. Promotion to a senior research post, project manager, or program manager is regarded as a worthwhile task after accumulating experience.
- Continue your education by pursuing a master’s degree.
While obtaining a master’s degree is an optional step, it can help you stand out from competitors, increase your income expectations, and familiarize you with a particular area of your field. Consider graduate programs in engineering, hydrogeology, environmental law, or aquatic biology.
- Pursue doctoral studies
Hydrologists may hold a Ph.D. at the highest level, which is required for university academic posts. While a doctorate may be necessary if you wish to work in a classroom setting, achieving this degree level can also increase your qualifications and enable you to earn a higher wage. Doctoral programs in watershed science, hydrological risks, hydrology, and water management are all possible.
Where to Work as a Hydrologist
Hydrologists frequently work in a variety of environments. These professionals primarily work in offices, laboratories, and classrooms, although they may also conduct fieldwork. Hydrologists frequently wade into bodies of water, such as lakes or streams, to collect samples and inspect monitoring equipment while on the job. Fieldwork can be harmed by inclement weather or high currents, and extensive travel may be required to visit some research places. When hydrologists are not out in the field, they spend their time in an office or laboratory analyzing their findings and modeling their data using computer software.
Numerous hydrologists are employed by the federal government, state governments, and statutory bodies. Hydrologists, on the other hand, work in the private sector in the mining industry, consulting firms, and engineering firms.
Hydrologist Salary Scale
In the United States, the average annual salary for a Hydrologist is $60,108.