Hydrologic Technicians
Collect and organize data concerning the distribution and circulation of ground and surface water, and data on its physical, chemical, and biological properties. Measure and report on flow rates and ground water levels, maintain field equipment, collect water samples, install and collect sampling equipment, and process samples for shipment to testing laboratories. May collect data on behalf of hydrologists, engineers, developers, government agencies, or agriculture.
Hydrologic Technicians earn a median of $31.15/hr — about $65,000 a year. The lowest-paid 10% earn $21.61/hr; the top 10% earn $48.31/hr. (Annual figures are approximate: hourly × 2,080.)
What you'd actually do
- Analyze ecological data about the impact of pollution, erosion, floods, and other environmental problems on bodies of water.
- Answer technical questions from hydrologists, policymakers, or other customers developing water conservation plans.
- Apply research findings to minimize the environmental impacts of pollution, waterborne diseases, erosion, or sedimentation.
- Assist in designing programs to ensure the proper sealing of abandoned wells.
- Collect water and soil samples to test for physical, chemical, or biological properties, such as pH, oxygen level, temperature, and pollution.
- Develop computer models for hydrologic predictions.
How you get there
Typical entry-level education: Associate degree. Overall preparation: medium preparation (Job Zone 3 of 5).
The feel of the work
Much of the work happens outdoors; much of the day is spent working solo. (Compared against the other 818 careers in the guide.)
Working for yourself
About 0% of hydrologic technicians are self-employed.
Who it tends to fit
This work tends to fit people who are hands-on, organized and detail-focused and analytical.
Work a simulated shift in this job — freeMake the real decisions this job involves, then see what your choices say about you.Related careers
- Environmental Scientists and Specialists, Including Health
- Urban and Regional Planners
- Occupational Health and Safety Specialists
- Chemists
- School Psychologists
- Biological Scientists, All Other
Quick questions
- How much does a hydrologic technician make?
- The median pay is $31.15 per hour — roughly $65,000 a year, with the real range running from about $21.61/hr (10th percentile) to $48.31/hr (90th percentile). Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
- Do you need a degree to be a hydrologic technician?
- The typical entry-level education is: Associate degree. Overall preparation level: medium preparation (Job Zone 3 of 5).
- What does a hydrologic technician actually do all day?
- Analyze ecological data about the impact of pollution, erosion, floods, and other environmental problems on bodies of water. Answer technical questions from hydrologists, policymakers, or other customers developing water conservation plans. Apply research findings to minimize the environmental impacts of pollution, waterborne diseases, erosion, or sedimentation.
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