Hydrologist

What a Hydrologist Does

Hydrologists study the Earth's water, from it's distribution to the cycles that transport it from one place to another. Often, professional hydrologists will specialize in an area of the field, taking on studies in underground or surface water. One of the main aspects of the study of hydrology is gaining a better understanding of the process of precipitation, absorption and return to the world's oceans and streams. To study this, hydrologists will use advanced technology that lets them monitor the global water cycles, collect data and analyze the results, sometimes remotely. One well-known subfield of this profession is oceanography, specializing in studying the currents and physical properties of the ocean. Hydrologists work both in the lab and the field and will most often find employment through government bodies, environmental organizations, research centers and universities. As the world's water supply becomes scarce in some areas and polluted in others, this profession becomes increasingly more necessary.

How to Become a Hydrologist

If you'd like to begin an exciting career as a hydrologist, you'll want to pursue a bachelor's degree in some area of the geosciences, preferably with a specialization in water-related issues as most universities do not offer a specific degree in hydrology. Regardless of their major, students in this degree program can expect to touch on mineralogy, stratigraphy, environmental science, structural geology and chemistry. While not ideal, some careers in this field may be open to those with degrees in chemistry, physics, biology and mathematics as well. There are few careers open to those without a higher degree in hydrology. For the majority of professions, a master's will suffice but for research and teaching positions individuals will need to attain a PhD. Some states require licensing for hydrologists who work in government offices, so it can be a good idea to check out if you'll need to take these tests before heading out into the working world.

Career Outlook for Hydrologists

Hydrologists are largely employed in the architectural and engineering fields, but many also work with the U.S. government, at research facilities and with scientific consulting firms, constituting about 8,100 jobs around the nation as of 2008. This number, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, is expected to rise faster than the national average for all professions over the next decade. As more individuals and government offices become concerned with the quality of the environment, more hydrologists will be needed to monitor and analyze water quality and environmental impact. Jobs should grow about 18 percent, adding an additional 1,500 positions to the workforce. Hydrologists can expect to make somewhere between $54,000 and $89,000 depending on experience and location. Those specializing in oceanography and who work for a government body can make upwards of $105,000 a year.