Hydrologist

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Work Tasks

• Study the effects of water above and below ground
• Study rainfall and how rain moves through the earth and returns back to the ocean and atmosphere
• Study the chemistry and quality of water; map and chart water flow
• Study storms, glaciers, floods, and droughts and use what they learn to plan ways to protect the environment
• Work for consulting firms, business and engineering services, the government, research institutions, colleges and universities, and as self-employed
• Work with remote sensing instruments, lab instruments, two- and three-dimensional computer modeling, charts, and maps

Salary, Size & Growth

• $75,500 average per year ($36.25 per hour)
• A small occupation (6,900 workers in 2010)
• Expected to grow moderately (1.8% per year)

Education/Training

• Minimum for Entry: A 4-year degree in hydrology
• Employers Prefer: A master's or Ph.D. degree and experience
• Certification/Licensing: A license is required.