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Hydrogeologist Jobs in Columbus, OH (NOW HIRING)

Developing level Geologist/ Hydrogeologist responsible for conducting analyses of component portions of projects; assignments are designed to develop knowledge and abilities. * Performs site visits ...

Bachelor's degree in Geology, Hydrogeology or related field. * A valid driver's license with acceptable violation history may be required. Preferred Qualifications: * Certification in field of ...

Bachelor of Arts/Science in Hydrogeology, Geology or other related Earth or Soil science * 0-2 years of experience, prior experience in preparing, reviewing and interpreting geologic data is ...

Hydrogeologist information

See Columbus, OH salary details

$50K

$75.4K

$114.5K

How much do hydrogeologist jobs pay per year?

As of May 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for hydrogeologist in Columbus, OH is $75,388.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $64,000.00 and $81,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Is a Hydrogeologist?

A hydrogeologist studies the movement of water underground. In this role, you analyze the flow of groundwater to develop risk assessments and create future predictions and use your research to aid construction projects, mining endeavors, environmental studies, and hazardous waste disposal. Typical job duties involve helping technical staff with 3-D hydrogeology visualization, site assessment, and GIS analysis. You often help develop project plans for associated construction projects. A career as a hydrogeologist requires working outside in the field in all weather conditions, often with a team of scientists and technicians.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Hydrogeologist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Hydrogeologist, you need a solid background in geology, hydrology, and environmental science, usually supported by a relevant degree and sometimes a professional license. Familiarity with groundwater modeling software, GIS tools, and water sampling equipment is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills help Hydrogeologists interpret data and work with diverse stakeholders. These skills are essential for accurately assessing water resources, ensuring regulatory compliance, and addressing complex environmental challenges.

What are some common challenges hydrogeologists face when working on groundwater contamination projects?

Hydrogeologists often encounter challenges such as interpreting complex subsurface data, dealing with limited site access, and addressing uncertainties in contaminant migration. Field conditions can be unpredictable, requiring adaptability and problem-solving skills. Additionally, hydrogeologists regularly collaborate with environmental engineers, regulatory agencies, and local stakeholders to develop effective remediation strategies, making strong communication and teamwork essential for project success.

What does a hydrogeologist do?

A hydrogeologist is a scientist who studies the distribution, movement, and quality of groundwater beneath the Earth's surface. They analyze how water interacts with soil and rock, often working to solve issues related to water supply, contamination, and environmental protection. Hydrogeologists play a key role in managing water resources, assessing pollution risks, and supporting construction or land development projects by ensuring sustainable and safe groundwater use.

What is the difference between Hydrogeologist vs Geologist?

AspectHydrogeologistGeologist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Hydrogeology, Geology, or Earth Sciences; often certifications in groundwater or environmental fieldsBachelor's or Master's in Geology or Earth Sciences; professional licensure varies by region
Work EnvironmentFocus on groundwater, aquifers, and water resources; fieldwork and data analysisBroader Earth processes, rock formations, and geological mapping; field and lab work
Industry UsagePrimarily in water resource management, environmental consulting, and remediation projectsMining, oil and gas, environmental consulting, research

While both Hydrogeologists and Geologists study Earth's processes, Hydrogeologists specialize in groundwater and water resources, often working on water supply and contamination issues. Geologists have a broader focus on Earth's materials and structures. The two roles overlap in education and fieldwork but differ in their specific applications and industry focus.

What cities near Columbus, OH are hiring for Hydrogeologist jobs? Cities near Columbus, OH with the most Hydrogeologist job openings:
Infographic showing various Hydrogeologist job openings in Columbus, OH as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $75,388 per year, or $36.2 per hour.
Assistant Geologist

Assistant Geologist

TERRACON

Gahanna, OH • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago


Terracon rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 112 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

42nd of 57 rated business consultants


Job description

Job Description
Evaluate and interpret subsurface field and sampling data including soil and groundwater to develop conclusions concerning the environmental and geologic site conditions. Generate subsurface maps and cross-sections and collaborate with engineering and environmental scientist staff on projects. Oversee field monitoring and testing of soils including boring investigations and soil type classification. Interpret soil, bedrock and groundwater elevation and quality data. Prepare written plans and reports related to site investigations, assessments and remediation activities. Projects may include construction projects focusing on earthwork and structural foundations; well design and sampling; environmental assessments including Phase I/II site assessments; seismic risk assessments.
Responsibilities
  • Follow safety rules, guidelines and standards for all projects. Participate in pre-task planning. Report any safety issues or concerns to management.
  • Be responsible for maintaining quality standards on all projects.
  • Entry level geological professional responsible for gathering data and information to be evaluated by other team members.
  • Performs sampling and testing of water, soil, and other materials.
  • Tabulate and prepare data for written reports.
  • Assist with report preparation by summarizing data and information within reports.
  • Operates field monitoring equipment.
  • Assists with operation and maintenance of remediation and instrumentation systems.
  • Transport material, samples or documents to the laboratory for further testing and analysis.
  • Maintains and calibrates field monitoring equipment.
  • Follow safety rules, guidelines and standards for all projects. Participate in pre-task planning. Report any safety issues or concerns to management.
  • Be responsible for maintaining quality standards on all projects.
  • Developing level Geologist/ Hydrogeologist responsible for conducting analyses of component portions of projects; assignments are designed to develop knowledge and abilities.
  • Performs site visits, field observations and field data collection or assignments.
  • Assists in the collection and analysis of data from sampling, reports, maps, drawings, tests and aerial photographs to evaluate, plan and permit projects.
  • Conducts water, soil and other sampling.
  • Implements technical requirements to complete client projects by directing field staff to sample, test and collect data and/or document site activities.
  • Outlines required investigative program(s) by selecting the proper alternative techniques to conduct site studies in field of expertise.
  • May have limited client contact pertaining to specific projects/tasks.
  • Follow safety rules, guidelines and standards for all projects. Participate in pre-task planning. Report any safety issues or concerns to management.
  • Be responsible for maintaining quality standards on all projects.
  • Proficient Geologist/ Hydrogeologist responsible for conducting site testing and making recommendations for systems design on smaller projects of minimal complexity.
  • May assist more senior Geologists on large, more complex projects.
  • Performs site visits, field observations and field data collection or assignments.
  • Implements technical requirements to complete client projects by directing and supervising field staff to sample, test and collect data and/or document site activities.
  • Responsible for developing written proposals to clients for approval by senior level professionals.
  • Evaluates moderately complex laboratory and field data and assembles in written reports.
  • May serve as team member or participate in meetings and communications with client pertaining to specific projects/tasks.
  • May oversee work performed by lower level Geologists/Hydrogeologists.
  • Follow safety rules, guidelines and standards for all projects. Participate in pre-task planning. Report any safety issues or concerns to management.
  • Be responsible for maintaining quality standards on all projects.
  • Mid-level, experienced Geologist/ Hydrogeologist responsible for conducting site testing and making recommendations for systems design on medium sized projects with a variety of complexity.
  • Participates with more senior Geologists on large, more complex projects.
  • Performs site visits, field observations and field data collection or assignments.
  • Implements technical requirements to complete client projects by directing and supervising field staff to sample, test and collect data and/or document site activities.
  • Responsible for developing written proposals to clients for both small and large projects including quality control review of proposals written by others.
  • Evaluates complex laboratory and field data and assembles in written reports.
  • May serve as team member or lead in meetings and communications with client pertaining to specific projects/tasks.
  • May oversee work performed by lower level Geologists/Hydrogeologists.

Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Geology, Hydrogeology or related field.
  • A valid driver's license with acceptable violation history may be required.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Certification in field of expertise

About Us
Terracon is a 100 percent employee-owned multidiscipline consulting firm comprised of more than 8,000 curious minds focused on solving engineering and technical challenges from more than 200 locations nationwide. Since 1965, Terracon has evolved into a successful multi-discipline firm specializing in environmental, facilities, geotechnical, and materials services. Terracon's growth is due to our talented employee-owners exceeding expectations in client service and growing their careers with new and exciting opportunities in the marketplace. Terracon was recognized as the #1 firm in Asbestos and Lead Abatement.
Terracon's vision of "Together, we are best at people" is demonstrated through our excellent compensation and benefits package. Based on eligibility, role and job status, we offer many programs including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, 401(k) plan, paid time off and holidays, education reimbursement, and various bonus programs.
About the Team
Innovation and hands-on practice come together in our geotechnical consulting services. We provide geotechnical services nationwide for a wide range of projects, drawing on six decades of historical geotechnical data, a fleet of more than 200 drill rigs, 140 accredited laboratories, and thousands of employees to quickly organize or capture site data wherever projects are located. From AI-supported solutions and predictive technologies to geophysics and traditional exploration, we deliver precision, value-added subsurface information and engineering and scientific expertise to solving our clients' challenges and achieve their goals for project sustainability, quality, and efficiency.

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