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 reports this occupation under titles such as: Groundwater Consultant; Hydrogeologist; Research Hydrologic Engineer; Research Hydrologist; Source Water Protection Specialist

Tasks

• Design and conduct scientific hydrogeological investigations to ensure that accurate and appropriate information is available for use in water resource management decisions.
• Study and document quantities, distribution, disposition, and development of underground and surface waters.
• Prepare reports or presentations describing research results, using illustrations, maps, appendices, and other information.
• Apply research findings to help minimize the environmental impacts of pollution, waterborne diseases, erosion, and sedimentation.
• Measure and graph phenomena such as lake levels, stream flows, and changes in water volumes.
• Conduct research and communicate information to promote the conservation and preservation of water resources.
• Develop computer models for hydrologic predictions.
• Coordinate and supervise the work of professional and technical staff, including research assistants, technologists, and technicians.
• Collect and analyze water samples as part of field investigations or to validate data from automatic monitors.
• Study public water supply issues, including flood and drought risks, water quality, wastewater, and impacts on wetland habitats.
• Install, maintain, and calibrate instruments such as those that monitor water levels, rainfall, and sediments.
• Evaluate research data in terms of its impact on issues such as soil and water conservation, flood control planning, and water supply forecasting.
• Conduct short- and long-term climate assessments and study storm occurrences.
• Study and analyze the physical aspects of the earth in terms of hydrological components, including atmosphere, hydrosphere, and interior structure.
• Develop or modify methods for conducting hydrologic studies.

Knowledge

• Mathematics
• Physics
• Engineering and Technology
• Chemistry
• English Language
• Computers and Electronics
• Geography

Skills

• Critical Thinking
• Reading Comprehension
• Active Listening
• Mathematics
• Science
• Writing
• Speaking
• Active Learning
• Monitoring
• Learning Strategies

Abilities

• Written Expression
• Oral Comprehension
• Written Comprehension
• Oral Expression
• Problem Sensitivity
• Deductive Reasoning
• Inductive Reasoning
• Information Ordering
• Category Flexibility
• Mathematical Reasoning
• Near Vision
• Flexibility of Closure
• Speech Recognition
• Speech Clarity
• Fluency of Ideas
• Number Facility
• Perceptual Speed
• Selective Attention
• Far Vision
• Originality
• Visualization