Hydrologist
Average Salary: $70,638
Hydrology is the study of how water moves through the water cycle on earth. It combines several fields: earth science, geology, geophysics, engineering, and chemistry. Hydrologists specialize in underground and surface water supplies used by a water agency.
General Job Description
- Measures, analyzes and models the occurrence and movement of water in the atmosphere (precipitation, evaporation), surface water (rivers and lakes), and groundwater
- Maps the distribution of water rights and measure the flow of water in the watershed
- Monitors, measure and/or predict changes in water volume and water flow in surface sources or groundwater levels due to precipitation, evaporation and snow melt
- Analyzes and determines the magnitude and/or probability of occurrence for floods and droughts
- Participates in planning, design and management aspects of entire water resource projects
- Describes mechanics of flow in watersheds and river basins
- Determines water volume and flow rate resulting from various storm events
- Analyzes, monitors and predicts water quality and changes in water quality of surface water and groundwater
Necessary Skills
- Communication skills to work with resource agencies and local communities, state agencies and others
- Inquisitive and analytical mind
- Ability to write clear, concise technical reports
- Computer ability
- Mapping ability
Educational Requirements
- B.S. in Hydrology or Civil Engineering
- Some positions may require a Master of Science in Hydrology/Water Resources
- Major course work in Hydrology, Fluid Mechanics, Soil Mechanics and Engineering Economics
- Courses n Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics
- Other courses that are helpful include: Geology, Forestry, Meteorology, Oceanography, Biology, Computer Science and Technical Writing
Where Jobs Are Available
- All medium, to large utilities
- Regional area planning authority
- Consulting firms
- Ski areas
- Mining corporations