Hydrologist

Your Fit

Income

$89K

Preparation

Extensive

Growth

1.5%

Definition
Your fit with this career
How much they earn
What they do
Job satisfaction
How to become

What is a Hydrologist?

A Hydrologist studies the movement, distribution, and quality of water in the Earth's atmosphere and on its surface. They analyze how water influences the environment and how human activities affect the water cycle.

Your test results

Why this fit score?

The fit report shows your areas of fit and misfit with Hydrologist.

Fit report

Test scores

The scores report summarizes what we learned about you. It shows your results on everything measured in the career test.

Scores report

How much does a Hydrologist earn

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, typical income (in USD) is...

Bottom 10%	Bottom 25%	Median (average)	Top 25%	Top 10%
$57K per year	$69K per year	$89K per year	$115K per year	$142K per year

Compared to other careers: Median is $41K above the national average.

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What does a Hydrologist do?

Work environment

Hydrologists work in a variety of settings, including government agencies, environmental consulting firms, research institutions, and non-profit organizations. Their work often involves both fieldwork, such as collecting water samples or measuring stream flow, and office work, like analyzing data and writing reports.

Quick task list

Collects and analyzes water samples to determine quality and pollution levels.
Monitors and forecasts water supply and flood risks.
Conducts research on water-related issues, such as climate change impacts.
Develops water management plans and conservation programs.
Advises policymakers and stakeholders on water resource management.

See full list of tasks with expert relevance ratings

Areas of specialization

Surface Water Hydrology: Focusing on water resources above ground, such as rivers, lakes, and wetlands.
Groundwater Hydrology: Studying underground water resources and aquifer systems.
Hydrogeology: Investigating the interplay between water and geological materials.
Water Quality Hydrology: Concentrating on the chemical and biological aspects of water quality.
Hydroinformatics: Applying computer technology and data analysis to solve hydrological problems.

Description

Hydrology is a critical field that connects environmental science, geology, and engineering. Hydrologists play a vital role in understanding how water affects ecosystems and human societies. They study everything from the local impacts of droughts and floods to global issues like climate change. Their work is crucial in managing water resources, ensuring water quality, and addressing environmental challenges.

A career in hydrology involves a mix of outdoor fieldwork, laboratory analysis, and computer-based data analysis. Hydrologists need to be skilled in scientific research methods, data interpretation, and problem-solving. They often collaborate with other scientists, engineers, and policymakers to develop sustainable solutions to water-related issues.

This field offers the opportunity to work on diverse projects, from local watershed management to international water conservation initiatives. Hydrologists contribute to vital environmental goals, such as protecting drinking water sources, preventing pollution, and managing the impacts of climate change on water resources.

Job Satisfaction

Sources of satisfaction

Making a tangible difference in managing and protecting vital water resources.
The variety of tasks, including fieldwork, research, and data analysis.
Opportunities to contribute to significant environmental and societal issues.

You might make a good Hydrologist if you are...

Passionate about environmental science and water conservation.
Skilled in scientific research and data analysis.
Comfortable working outdoors and in a laboratory setting.
Interested in geosciences and environmental engineering.
A good communicator, able to translate complex data into actionable information.

Pros:

Contributing to critical environmental and public health issues.
Diverse career opportunities in various sectors.
Engaging and dynamic work with a balance of field and office activities.

Cons:

The need for advanced education and continuous learning.
Fieldwork can sometimes be physically demanding and in remote locations.
Challenges in dealing with complex environmental regulations and policies.

How to become a Hydrologist

Typical education

A bachelor's degree in environmental science, geosciences, or a related field is typically required, taking about 4 years. However, many hydrologists have a master's degree or Ph.D., especially those in research or advanced positions.

High school preparation

Courses:

Biology and Chemistry for foundational scientific knowledge.
Environmental Science to understand ecosystems and natural resources.
Mathematics, especially statistics, for data analysis.
Geography to learn about physical landscapes and water systems.

Extra-Curricular Activities:

Participating in environmental clubs or local conservation projects.
Joining science clubs or competing in science fairs with water-related projects.
Volunteering with local watershed or water conservation organizations.

Preparation after high school

Earn a bachelor's degree in environmental science, geology, or a related field.
Gain practical experience through internships or summer jobs in environmental agencies or research labs.
Consider pursuing a master's degree or Ph.D. for advanced research roles or specialized positions.
Obtain certifications related to water resources or hydrology, if available.

More resources

American Geosciences Institute (AGI) - Provides resources and information on geosciences careers, including hydrology.
U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) Water Science School - Offers educational resources on various aspects of water, including hydrology.
American Water Resources Association (AWRA) - A multidisciplinary organization dedicated to the management and protection of water resources.
The Consortium of Universities for the Advancement of Hydrologic Science, Inc. (CUAHSI) - Supports research and education in hydrologic science.

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