Hydrologist

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.

O*NET definition of Hydrologists (SOC 19-2043) · Job Zone Four: Considerable Preparation Needed.

Education workers say the job requires

Share of surveyed workers in Hydrologists (SOC 19-2043) naming each level as required to be hired, 22 respondents, O*NET survey August 2026. Each employer sets its own minimum.

To enter the occupation, hydrologists typically need a bachelor's degree in geology, hydrology, or a related field. Some employers prefer to hire candidates who have a master's degree.

From the BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook profile “Hydrologists”, published August 27, 2026 · Read the full profile. National guidance; each employer runs its own hiring process.

Median annual wage by employer type, national, May 2025. Federal includes the U.S. Postal Service; state and local include public schools and hospitals.

State government pay plans

Official pay ranges for the job classes that match Hydrologist in 11 state civil-service plans. They cover state employees only, not cities, counties or school districts.

Lowest class minimum to highest class maximum. Hourly rates are converted at 2,080 hours a year, and other rates at the plan's pay periods; the plans publish the exact rates. Classes are matched to this job by title (GovJobsWiki editorial rule).

Sources: 11 official state pay plans, linked in each row.

1. Design and conduct scientific hydrogeological investigations to ensure that accurate and appropriate information is available for use in water resource management decisions.4.7
2. Study and document quantities, distribution, disposition, and development of underground and surface waters.4.6
3. Prepare reports or presentations describing research results, using illustrations, maps, appendices, and other information.4.4
4. Apply research findings to help minimize the environmental impacts of pollution, waterborne diseases, erosion, and sedimentation.4.3
5. Measure and graph phenomena such as lake levels, stream flows, and changes in water volumes.4.3
6. Conduct research and communicate information to promote the conservation and preservation of water resources.4.3
7. Develop computer models for hydrologic predictions.4.3
8. Coordinate and supervise the work of professional and technical staff, including research assistants, technologists, and technicians.4.2
9. Collect and analyze water samples as part of field investigations or to validate data from automatic monitors.4.1
10. Study public water supply issues, including flood and drought risks, water quality, wastewater, and impacts on wetland habitats.4.0

The 10 most important of 21 core tasks for Hydrologists, ranked by importance (1–5) in the O*NET survey of August 2026.