Hydrologists
Life, Physical, and Social Science
Investigations start with measurement: lake levels, stream flows, and changes in water volume, plus how rain soaks into soil and moves underground. Those data feed studies of public supply, flood and drought risk, water quality, wastewater, and wetland habitats. Findings are written up with maps and figures so managers can decide how to use or protect water, and they also support work against pollution, waterborne disease, erosion, and sedimentation. Technical staff and research assistants often need coordination. Works well for those who like careful measurement, practical math, and explaining water systems in writing and in person.
Typical education: Master’s Degree
Annual Median Wage in Field (2025)
$96'600
Median Wage Market Position
$96'600
What you might do
- Study how surface and underground water moves
- Measure lake levels, stream flows, and water volumes
- Design investigations that inform water-resource decisions
- Track flood, drought, and water-quality risks
- Use findings to limit pollution and erosion
- Write reports with maps and research results
Skills that matter
- Designing hydrogeological field investigations
- Measuring stream flows and lake levels
- Writing illustrated water research reports
- Assessing flood and drought risks
- Speaking about water conservation findings
- Supervising technicians and research staff
AI & the future of this role
Site visits, regulatory judgment, and messy watershed conditions still protect much of this role. AI may accelerate modeling of flows and groundwater, yet interpreting local systems and advising on liability-sensitive water decisions is likely to stay human-led.
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Includes O*NET® 30.3 Database information by USDOL/ETA under CC BY 4.0; modified by LostInCareer. Wage/outlook from BLS. Attribution details