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Hydrologists

Research the distribution, circulation, and physical properties of underground and surface waters; and study the form and intensity of precipitation and its rate of infiltration into the soil, movement through the earth, and return to the ocean and atmosphere.

What you’d do

  • 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.
  • Develop computer models for hydrologic predictions.
  • Coordinate and supervise the work of professional and technical staff, including research assistants, technologists, and technicians.

Skills that matter

  • Critical Thinking
  • Active Listening
  • Complex Problem Solving
  • Mathematics
  • Reading Comprehension
  • Science

How to get there

Considerable preparation: most need a four-year bachelor's degree

Also called

  • Groundwater Consultant
  • Hydrogeologist
  • Research Hydrologist
  • Source Water Protection Specialist
  • Research Hydrologic Engineer

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