Hydrologist
Also known as: hydrology scientist, hydrogeologist, hydrology researcher, hydrology science researcher, hydrology research scientist, surface hydrologist
About this occupation
Hydrologists research and study the quality, current challenges, and distribution of water in the Earth. They study water supply from rivers, streams, and springs to determine their adequate and sustainable use. Together with a cross functional team of professionals, they plan and develop how water can be supplied to cities and urban areas while ensuring efficiency and resource conservation.
A specialisation of geologist.
Essential skills and knowledge
- water policies
- scientific research methodology
- scientific modelling
- apply statistical analysis techniques
- environmental policy
- statistics
- develop environmental policy
- develop water purification methods
- ensure compliance with environmental legislation
- apply scientific methods
- perform scientific research
- operate scientific measuring equipment
Typical tasks and preparation
From the related US occupation profile Hydrologists (O*NET 19-2043.00). Linked by an official crosswalk: related, not identical; details vary by country.
- Design and conduct scientific hydrogeological investigations to ensure that accurate and appropriate information is available for use in water resource management decisions.
- Study and document quantities, distribution, disposition, and development of underground and surface waters.
- Prepare reports or presentations describing research results, using illustrations, maps, appendices, and other information.
- Apply research findings to help minimize the environmental impacts of pollution, waterborne diseases, erosion, and sedimentation.
- Measure and graph phenomena such as lake levels, stream flows, and changes in water volumes.
- Conduct research and communicate information to promote the conservation and preservation of water resources.
- Preparation
- Job Zone 4 of 5
- Interests
- Investigative, Realistic, Conventional
Top skills: Critical Thinking, Reading Comprehension, Active Listening, Mathematics, Science, Complex Problem Solving
US median pay: US$96,600 a year (2025), 5,850 employed. Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics.
Subjects this work relies on
How important each subject's knowledge is in the job itself, rated by people doing it (1 to 5).
- Mathematics or StatisticsO*NET: MathematicsVery important (4.4)
- PhysicsO*NET: PhysicsVery important (4.2)
- ChemistryO*NET: ChemistryVery important (3.6)
- English or Literature in EnglishO*NET: English LanguageVery important (3.6)
- GeographyO*NET: GeographyVery important (3.5)
- Computer StudiesO*NET: Computers and ElectronicsImportant (3.5)
- Design and TechnologyO*NET: Design + Engineering and TechnologyImportant (3.2)
- Environmental ScienceO*NET: Biology + GeographyImportant (3.1)
O*NET data describe work in the United States; requirements differ by country. This page includes information from the O*NET 31.0 Database by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA). Used under the CC BY 4.0 license. O*NET is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. CareerProof Global has modified all or some of this information; USDOL/ETA has not approved, endorsed, or tested these modifications.
Preparation needed
Job Zone Four: Considerable Preparation Needed
- Education
- Most of these occupations require a four-year bachelor's degree, but some do not.
- Experience
- A considerable amount of work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is needed for these occupations. For example, an accountant must complete four years of college and work for several years in accounting to be considered qualified.
- Training
- Employees in these occupations usually need several years of work-related experience, on-the-job training, and/or vocational training.
O*NET data describe work in the United States; requirements differ by country. This page includes information from the O*NET 31.0 Database by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA). Used under the CC BY 4.0 license. O*NET is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. CareerProof Global has modified all or some of this information; USDOL/ETA has not approved, endorsed, or tested these modifications.
Related occupations
Occupations O*NET links to this one by similar work, skills and knowledge.
- Geoscientists, Except Hydrologists and Geographers
- Hydrologic Technicians
- Industrial Ecologists
- Water Resource Specialists
- Conservation Scientists
- Water/Wastewater Engineers
- Environmental Scientists and Specialists, Including Health
- Soil and Plant Scientists
- Environmental Restoration Planners
- Environmental Engineers
O*NET data describe work in the United States; requirements differ by country. This page includes information from the O*NET 31.0 Database by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA). Used under the CC BY 4.0 license. O*NET is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. CareerProof Global has modified all or some of this information; USDOL/ETA has not approved, endorsed, or tested these modifications.