1

Graduate Hydrologist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Pennoni is hiring! Pennoni is looking for passionate Graduate Highway Engineers to join our ... Contribute to developing set of Transportation plans, including highway design, hydrology and ...

We are hiring for a Graduate Civil Engineer to join our team on a full-time, direct basis in the ... while utilizing Hydrology and Hydraulics (H&H) modeling tools, is a plus! * Proficiency with ...

Showing results 21-40

Graduate Hydrologist information

See salary details

$28K

$62.8K

$117K

How much do graduate hydrologist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for graduate hydrologist in the United States is $62,774.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,000.00 and $88,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a graduate hydrologist?

Graduate hydrologists are entry-level professionals who have recently completed a degree in hydrology, environmental science, or a related field. They support the study and management of water resources, often assisting with data collection, analysis, and reporting on water cycles, quality, and distribution. Graduate hydrologists commonly work under the supervision of experienced hydrologists, contributing to environmental assessments, flood risk management, and water conservation projects. Their role is crucial in addressing water-related challenges and supporting sustainable resource management.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a graduate hydrologist?

To thrive as a Graduate Hydrologist, you need a solid background in hydrology, environmental science, or civil engineering, typically with a relevant degree. Familiarity with GIS software, hydrological modeling tools, and data analysis platforms is often required, along with knowledge of regulatory standards. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication skills help you collaborate with teams and convey complex findings to stakeholders. These competencies enable accurate water resource assessments and support sound environmental decision-making.

What are some typical challenges a graduate hydrologist might face in their first year on the job?

As a Graduate Hydrologist, you may encounter challenges such as adapting to fieldwork in varied and sometimes remote environments, learning to use specialized hydrological software, and interpreting complex data sets. Balancing office-based analysis with on-site data collection can be demanding, especially when working within tight project deadlines or during adverse weather conditions. Additionally, collaborating with multidisciplinary teams—including engineers, environmental scientists, and government agencies—requires strong communication skills and a willingness to learn from others' expertise.

What is the difference between Graduate Hydrologist vs Hydrologist?

AspectGraduate HydrologistHydrologist
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in hydrology, environmental science, or related field; entry-level certificationBachelor's or master's degree; professional certification often preferred
Work EnvironmentFieldwork, data analysis, research projects, often supervisedMore independent research, project management, and data interpretation
Employer & Industry UsageGovernment agencies, environmental consultancies, research institutionsSimilar employers, with increased responsibilities and specialization

The main difference between a Graduate Hydrologist and a Hydrologist is experience level and responsibility. Graduate Hydrologists are typically entry-level professionals with relevant degrees, focusing on learning and supporting projects. Hydrologists usually have more experience, handle complex analyses, and take on greater responsibilities in water resource management and research.

Are graduate hydrologists in high demand?

Graduate hydrologists are in moderate demand, especially in environmental consulting, government agencies, and research institutions. Job opportunities often require skills in data analysis, modeling, and GIS tools, with demand influenced by environmental policies and climate change initiatives.

Is a graduate hydrologist degree worth it?

A graduate hydrologist degree can improve job prospects and earning potential in fields such as water resource management, environmental consulting, and research. It provides specialized knowledge, advanced skills, and often necessary credentials for higher-level positions, though practical experience and certifications also play important roles. The degree's value depends on career goals and industry demand.

What can I do with a master's in graduate hydrology?

A master's in hydrology prepares graduates for roles such as hydrologist, water resource analyst, or environmental consultant, involving data analysis, modeling, and fieldwork. These positions often require knowledge of GIS, hydrological software, and environmental regulations, and may lead to careers in government agencies, consulting firms, or research institutions.
More about Graduate Hydrologist jobs
Infographic showing various Graduate Hydrologist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $62,774 per year, or $30.2 per hour.

Research Scientist in Hydrologic Modeling

University of Texas at Dallas

Richardson, TX • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 17 days ago


University Of Texas At Dallas rating

6.0

Company rating: 6.0 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

567th of 620 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Posting Details
Posting Number S05221P Position Title Research Scientist in Hydrologic Modeling Functional Title Research Scientist Department NSM Deans Office Salary Range Commensurate with experience Pay Basis Monthly Position Status Regular full-time Location Richardson Position End Date (if temporary) Posting Open Date 10/20/2023 Posting Close Date Open Until Filled Yes Desired Start Date Job Summary
Position will enhance capabilities at University of Texas at Dallas and link to a successful interdisciplinary research Team. These individuals would work with a vibrant team of faculty, postdocs and graduate students to conduct integrated hydrologic modeling efforts investigating climate, land use, and water resources at large basin scales. This team seeks to develop and improve models to predict the effects of changes in land use and climate on hydrology, and to apply models to better understand how to improve sustainability of land use practices and adapt to future changes. Our highly interdisciplinary research is conducted in collaboration with researchers at multiple universities nationwide.
Possible projects include:
Understanding the hydrologic footprint of irrigated agricultural practices across the US, using model / data synthesis to understand paths toward sustainability.
Fusing integrated hydrologic models with remote sensing estimates of water storage to develop nowcast and reanalysis of groundwater levels and streamflow across the Great Lakes Region.
Quantifying the combined effects of changes in land use and climate on hydrology across a region experiencing rapid urbanization.
Developing hydrology, energy, agriculture, and ecosystem models to better understand the footprint of solar arrays, which are being rapidly installed in agricultural lands.
Minimum Education and Experience
- Master's degree in field directly related to research - Two (2) years of experience/expertise performing research relating to a specified field of study - Or equivalent combination of relevant education and experience totaling at least eight years.
Preferred Education and Experience
Ph.D degree in field directly related to research
Programming and hydrologic modeling experience, plus a strong publication record.
Familiarity with groundwater modeling, data science, and spatial data analysis are desired.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
We are seeking postdoctoral scientists to conduct integrated surface and groundwater modeling at regional scales at the University of Texas at Dallas. Through this hire, Dr. David Hyndman seeks to create a core of scientific and modeling expertise, leading and enhancing the work of a vibrant team of graduate and undergraduate students. We have several collaborative research projects with researchers at multiple universities; projects include:
Applicants must have expertise in programming (such as Python, MATLAB, R, or FORTRAN), and a strong publication record. Prior hydrologic modeling experience is also required. Familiarity with groundwater modeling, data science, and spatial data analysis are desired.
The initial position isfor one year (renewable based on performance). We are hiring at the Research Scientist level, however exceptional candidates with a strong record of successful grants may be hired as a Research Assistant Professor (see separate posting at jobs.utdallas.edu). These positions require writing peer-reviewed publications and research proposals to extend their position and help grow this interdisciplinary research team.
Physical Activities Working Conditions Additional Information
ELEVATE YOUR CAREER!  APPLY TODAY TO BE A PART OF A GREAT TEAM!
What We Can Offer
UT Dallas is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We offer an employee-friendly work environment with a comprehensive benefit package including:
  •  Competitive Salary
  •  Tuition Benefits
  •  Internal Training
  •  Medical insurance - including 100% paid employee medical coverage for full-time employees
  •  Dental Insurance
  •  Vision Insurance
  •  Long and short-term disability
  •  Retirement Plan Options
  •  Paid time off
 Paid Holidays All UT Dallas employees have access to various professional development opportunities, including a membership to Academic Impressions, LinkedIn Learning, and UT Dallas Bright Leaders Program.
Visit https://hr.utdallas.edu/employees/benefits/ for more information.
A remote work schedule is not available for this position.
Special Instructions Summary
To apply please submit an application letter detailing research interest and experiences, a current CV and names of 3 references with telephone numbers and emails addresses.
Important Message
1) All employees serve as a representative of the University and are expected to display respect, civility, professional courtesy, consideration of others and discretion in all interactions with members of the UT Dallas community and the general public.
2) The University of Texas at Dallas is committed to providing an educational, living, and working environment that is welcoming, respectful, and inclusive of all members of the university community. UT Dallas does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, national origin, disability, genetic information, or veteran status in its services, programs, activities, employment, and education, including in admission and enrollment. EOE, including disability/veterans. The University is committed to providing access, equal opportunity, and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities. To request reasonable accommodation in the employment application and interview process, contact the ADA Coordinator. For inquiries regarding nondiscrimination policies, contact the Title IX Coordinator.

What University Of Texas At Dallas employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom