Surface water hydrologists: Salary, career path, job outlook, education and more
Surface water hydrologists study water from aboveground sources such as streams, lakes, and snowpacks. They may predict future water levels by tracking usage and precipitation data to help reservoir managers decide when to release or store water. They also produce flood forecasts and help develop flood management plans.
Work done by hydrologists can sometimes include topics typically associated with atmospheric scientists, including meteorologists. Scientists with an education in hydrology and a concentration in water quality are environmental scientists and specialists. Some people with a hydrology background become high school teachers or postsecondary teachers.
- Education Required
- Hydrologists need at least a bachelors degree, and some begin their careers with a masters degree. Applicants for advanced research and university faculty positions typically need a Ph.D.
- Job Outlook
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The projected percent change in employment from 2016 to 2026: 10% (Faster than average)
(The average growth rate for all occupations is 7 percent.) - Median pay: How much do Hydrologists make?
- $80,480 Annual Salary
- $38.69 per hour
Careers for Hydrologists
- Groundwater hydrologists
- Hydrogeologists
- Isotope hydrologists
- Surface hydrologists