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Hydrologist

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AVG. SALARY

$85,690

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EDUCATION

Bachelor's degree

What They Do

Hydrologists Career Video

Insider Info

Hydrologists are scientists who specialize in the subject of the Earth's water. Working as a hydrologist means dealing with the problems of having too much water, having too little water or having polluted water.

Hydrologists study the physical properties of water. They also study how it circulates and where it is found. They study both surface water, like oceans, and underground water.

Examples of surface water projects include:

  • Reducing flood damage
  • Monitoring water supply for agriculture
  • Generating hydro power
  • Forecasting floods
  • Caring for rivers
  • Identifying pollution sources in order to protect wildlife
  • Studying the impact on the environment caused by pollution

Examples of projects involving groundwater (that is, water below the surface of the ground) include:

  • Supplying water through the construction of wells
  • Monitoring wells for pollutants
  • Treating polluted groundwater supplies
  • Studying the effect of groundwater production on the surface water supply

Be prepared to make some pretty important decisions as a hydrologist. It may be your research and your final say that causes a water reservoir to be closed or people to be evacuated during a flood.

Hydrologists also help determine how roads and buildings should be built and what impact these developments will have on the existing water.

"Hydrologists play an important role in monitoring the environmental impact and implications of new development," says Peter Best. He is a hydrologist from Australia whose interest in water developed from growing up in the dry Australian outback.

You're likely to find hydrologists working for governments on issues of flood control, water quality or water supply. They may work for private consulting firms on issues such as pollution control and engineering.

Hydrologists divide their time between fieldwork and the office. In the field, they measure water levels or collect data for research. In the office, they'll work with that data using computers. And they'll come up with solutions to their water problems.

Most hydrologists work a 40-hour week. Yet those who work in areas like flood forecasting for the National Weather Service may find themselves at work on evenings and weekends.

Working for a private consulting firm allows hydrologists to work on a wide variety of projects, but it has its drawbacks.

"I don't always enjoy the competitive, stressful environment that surrounds private consulting companies. Since we have to concern ourselves with making a profit, budgets and deadlines often decide the quality of work we can do," says Geoff Harris, a hydrologist in Indianapolis, Indiana.

Using modern techniques to study age-old water systems, hydrologists are often involved in helping to supply water to remote areas where there seems to be none.

"It's rewarding to see the faces of these people when the pump starts up and the first fresh water ever begins to flow in a remote village," says Best.

Just the Facts

Want a quick overview of what this career is about?Check out Just the Facts for simple lists of characteristics.

At a Glance

Study and manage water

  • Jobs are available in underdeveloped countries
  • Most hydrologists work a 40-hour week
  • A university degree and a strong science background are recommended

Contact

  • Email Support

  • 1-800-GO-TO-XAP (1-800-468-6927)
    From outside the U.S., please call +1 (424) 750-3900

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