Hydrologists
Hydrologists study water and how it moves across and through the Earth’s crust.
Is hydrologists a good career?
It scores 17/100 and ranks #434 of 825 occupations on pay, growth, employment and openings. Here's what the federal data says, with no editorializing.
Advantages
- Pays well above the U.S. median wage ($96,600 vs $61,390)
Possible tradeoffs
- Employment is projected to decline (-0.1% through 2034)
- Typically requires a bachelor's degree
What hydrologists earn
Wages: BLS OEWS May 2025Pay is a range, not a number. Half of U.S. hydrologists earn between $77,210 and $122,830 a year.
Best-paying states
Best-paying metros
Strongest employment concentration
Live hydrologists jobs
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- Typical education
- Bachelor's degree
- Work experience
- None
- On-the-job training
- None
- Outlook
- Employment is projected to grow little or no change through 2034.
Education
Hydrologists typically need a bachelor’s degree in a physical science field, such as geology or hydrology. Some employers prefer to hire candidates who have a master’s degree.
Environmental science, geosciences, or other natural or physical science programs usually include coursework in math, statistics, and sciences. Students also may choose to participate in internships while in school to gain hands-on experience before entering the job market.
States that require geologists to be licensed may encourage hydrologists to pursue licensing as well.
Important qualities
Analytical skills. Hydrologists need to evaluate data collected in the field and examine the results of laboratory tests.
Communication skills. Hydrologists prepare detailed reports that document their research methods and findings. They may have to present their findings to audiences who do not have a technical background, such as government officials or the public.
Critical-thinking skills. Hydrologists develop and use models to assess the potential risks to the water supply by pollution, floods, droughts, and other threats. They develop water management plans to handle these threats.
Interpersonal skills. Hydrologists must be able to collaborate as part of a team with engineers, technicians, and other scientists.
Physical stamina. Hydrologists working in the field may need to hike to remote locations while carrying testing and sampling equipment.
Problem-solving skills. Hydrologists use their knowledge to find solutions to issues affecting water quality and availability.
Related occupations
How much do hydrologists make?
The national median wage is $96,600 a year, with the middle half earning between $77,210 and $122,830 (BLS OEWS May 2025).
Is hydrologists a good career?
On the Jobs.best index it scores 17 of 100 and ranks #434 of 825 occupations, weighing pay, growth, employment and openings. Employment is projected to change -0.1% through 2034.
What education do you need to become a hydrologist?
The typical entry-level education is bachelor's degree.
Where do hydrologists earn the most?
Among states, Maryland pays the highest median ($143,010). Local pay for every state and metro is below.