Environmental Hydrologist Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the era of climate change, the role of environmental hydrologists has never been more crucial.

As our understanding of the environment evolves, so too does the demand for skilled professionals who can investigate, analyze, and manage our water resources.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from an environmental hydrologist?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker aiming to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager seeking to outline the perfect candidate,
• Or simply curious about the intricate field of environmental hydrology,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable environmental hydrologist job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Environmental Hydrologist Duties and Responsibilities

Environmental Hydrologists study the distribution, circulation, and physical properties of water in the earth’s atmosphere and surface.

Their work involves understanding how water influences the surrounding environment and how changes in the environment influence water resources.

The duties and responsibilities of Environmental Hydrologists typically include:

• Collecting and analyzing water samples from rivers, lakes, and groundwater reservoirs
• Developing hydrological models to predict future water availability and quality
• Conducting field investigations to identify and assess sources of water pollution
• Designing and implementing strategies for the sustainable management of water resources
• Using specialized software for data analysis and visualization
• Working with government officials to develop water conservation policies and plans
• Communicating research findings to a wide range of stakeholders, including policymakers, water resource managers, and the public
• Writing technical reports and research papers on hydrological findings and trends
• Ensuring compliance with environmental laws and regulations related to water resources

 

Environmental Hydrologist Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for a dedicated Environmental Hydrologist to join our team.

Your role will primarily involve studying how water interacts with the earth’s crust, specifically how it affects the surrounding environment, weather patterns, and ecosystems.

Responsibilities include conducting field studies, collecting and analyzing data, and presenting research findings.

You will also need to understand and apply various data modeling techniques to predict future water-related phenomena.

Our ideal candidate has a strong background in hydrology or environmental science, excellent analytical skills, and the ability to communicate complex concepts clearly.

 

Responsibilities

• Conduct field studies and collect water samples for analysis
• Analyze data to understand patterns and trends in water systems
• Use mathematical models to forecast future water-related phenomena
• Present research findings in a clear and concise manner
• Collaborate with environmental scientists, geologists, and other specialists
• Contribute to environmental conservation efforts
• Prepare reports and make recommendations based on research findings
• Stay updated with latest developments in the field of hydrology
• Ensure compliance with environmental laws and regulations

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as an Environmental Hydrologist or similar role
• Strong understanding of hydrological data and modeling techniques
• Ability to work effectively in a team and independently
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• BSc or higher in Hydrology, Environmental Science or a relevant field
• Proficiency in using hydrological equipment and software

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Environmental Hydrologist
• Work Environment: Field and office-based work. Regular travel to various locations for field studies.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Lead Environmental Hydrologist or Environmental Science Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $70,000 minimum to $120,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does an Environmental Hydrologist Do?

Environmental Hydrologists work in the field of environmental science and hydrology.

They primarily study how water interacts with the earth’s crust, including the processes of precipitation, absorption, and evaporation.

They typically work for government agencies, environmental consulting firms, or research institutions, and may also find employment in industries that require water management such as agriculture or mining.

Environmental Hydrologists design and implement water-related projects like waste water treatment, irrigation or flood prevention.

They also monitor and analyze water data collected from field observations and remote sensing systems.

They are responsible for understanding and predicting how changes in the climate or land use affect water systems and the availability of water resources.

Environmental Hydrologists often collaborate with other scientists and policymakers to manage water resources sustainably.

They may also be involved in environmental impact assessments, providing crucial information about the potential effects of various projects on water resources.

Finally, they may also communicate their findings through reports and presentations to clients, stakeholders, or the public, and provide recommendations for water conservation, hazard mitigation, or the restoration of aquatic ecosystems.

 

Environmental Hydrologist Qualifications and Skills

Environmental Hydrologists apply a mix of scientific knowledge, analytical skills, and fieldwork capabilities to study how water interacts with the Earth’s crust.

The necessary skills and qualifications include:

• Having a strong understanding of hydrology, geology, and environmental science to conduct accurate research and analyze the interaction between water and the earth’s surface.
• Possessing exceptional analytical and problem-solving skills to interpret complex data and predict potential water-related issues.
• Using advanced computer skills for modeling and simulating hydrological scenarios, as well as statistical analysis of data.
• Applying meticulous attention to detail to make precise measurements and observations during fieldwork.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills to present research findings clearly to both scientific peers and the general public.
• Ability to work well in a team environment with other scientists and professionals, using effective interpersonal skills.
• Having a proactive approach towards environment protection, with the ability to design and recommend strategies for water conservation and pollution control.
• Physical stamina and resilience to perform fieldwork in diverse weather conditions and terrains.
• Being comfortable with using a variety of technical instruments for measuring water flow, quality, and other hydrological parameters.

 

Environmental Hydrologist Experience Requirements

Environmental Hydrologists usually have a bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science, Hydrology, or a related field, which allows them to gain a significant amount of theoretical knowledge.

Practical experience often comes from laboratory coursework, fieldwork, and internships during undergraduate studies.

Entry-level candidates typically have 1 to 2 years of experience, often gained through internships or research projects in environmental hydrology.

These professionals can also gain valuable experience through roles such as Environmental Technician, Hydrologist Assistant, or Water Quality Analyst.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience often develop their technical skills and knowledge in entry-level Environmental Hydrologist roles, or similar positions within consulting firms, government agencies, or nonprofit organizations.

Those with over 5 years of experience may have some leadership experience and are often ready for a managerial role or project-lead position.

Such professionals have typically worked on complex projects involving water resource management, flood risk assessment, groundwater pollution, or climate change impacts on water resources.

Additionally, some roles may require a master’s degree or Ph.D. in Hydrology or a related field, especially for advanced research positions or jobs that involve complex environmental modelling or policy development.

 

Environmental Hydrologist Education and Training Requirements

Environmental Hydrologists typically require a bachelor’s degree in environmental science, hydrology, or a related field like geoscience or engineering.

The coursework in these programs usually includes subjects like geology, physics, chemistry, computer science, and mathematics.

Many Environmental Hydrologists also pursue a master’s degree in hydrology or water resources, which offers a more focused study on water bodies, water quality, and water-related policies.

An understanding of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and computer modeling is essential, and some positions may require expertise in these areas.

After graduation, environmental hydrologists may need to gain certification from recognized bodies such as the American Institute of Hydrology.

This certification demonstrates a high level of competence in the field.

For advanced positions, such as those in research or academia, a Ph.D. in hydrology or a related field may be required.

Professional experience in the field, such as internships or cooperative-education programs, can also be beneficial for job applicants.

Continuous education and staying up-to-date with the latest technologies and developments in the field are essential for career advancement.

 

Environmental Hydrologist Salary Expectations

An Environmental Hydrologist earns an average salary of $79,370 (USD) per year.

This wage can vary depending on the individual’s level of experience, their educational qualifications, the location of the job, and the organization that they work for.

 

Environmental Hydrologist Job Description FAQs

What skills does an Environmental Hydrologist need?

Environmental Hydrologists should have excellent analytical and problem-solving skills to analyze water and its properties.

They should also have strong computer skills, particularly in data analysis software, remote sensing, and GIS.

Excellent oral and written communication skills are essential as they need to present findings and collaborate with various stakeholders, including government officials, environmental scientists, and private businesses.

 

Do Environmental Hydrologists need a degree?

Yes, a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in hydrology, environmental science, or a related field is required for an entry-level position.

For more advanced positions, a master’s degree or PhD is often required, in addition to considerable field experience.

Some positions may also require licensing or certification.

 

What should you look for in an Environmental Hydrologist resume?

A professional Environmental Hydrologist should have a degree in a relevant field and significant experience in water management and conservation.

Other important skills to look for include familiarity with hydrologic modeling software, GIS, and data analysis.

Be sure to check for any certifications or licenses.

Also, look for any published research or participation in relevant projects which can indicate expertise and dedication to the field.

 

What qualities make a good Environmental Hydrologist?

A good Environmental Hydrologist should have a passion for environmental conservation and the ability to analyze complex data to develop effective water management strategies.

They need to be detail-oriented, as they often work with complex data sets.

Strong communication skills are also essential, as they often need to convey complex information to non-specialists.

 

Is it difficult to hire an Environmental Hydrologist?

Hiring an Environmental Hydrologist can be challenging due to the specific skill set and qualifications required for the role.

There is a relatively small pool of qualified candidates, which makes the recruitment process competitive.

Therefore, it might be necessary to offer competitive salaries and benefits to attract the right candidates.

 

Conclusion

So, that’s the lay of the land.

Today, we’ve lifted the veil on what it really means to be an environmental hydrologist.

And guess what?

It’s not just about studying water.

It’s about shaping the future of our planet, one watershed at a time.

With our comprehensive environmental hydrologist job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to take the plunge.

But why just dip your toes in?

Immerse yourself with our job description generator. It’s your ultimate guide to creating accurate job listings or honing your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every watershed is a part of the larger ecosystem.

Let’s safeguard that future. Together.

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