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Hydrologic Modeling Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Hydrologist

Tucson, AZ · On-site +1

Perform watershed modeling and stormwater runoff analysis for roadway improvement projects ... Provide hydrologic documentation for NEPA, environmental assessments, or FEMA-related projects (if ...

Hydraulic Modeler

Seattle, WA · On-site +1

$90K - $125K/yr

Minimum of 2 years of experience in hydraulic and hydrologic modeling for municipal utility systems. * EIT certification required; PE license or ability to obtain within 12-24 months preferred.

Hydraulic Modeler

Portland, OR · On-site +1

$90K - $125K/yr

Minimum of 2 years of experience in hydraulic and hydrologic modeling for municipal utility systems. * EIT certification required; PE license or ability to obtain within 12-24 months preferred.

Hydraulic Modeler

Portland, OR · On-site +1

$90K - $125K/yr

Minimum of 2 years of experience in hydraulic and hydrologic modeling for municipal utility systems. * EIT certification required; PE license or ability to obtain within 12-24 months preferred.

Hydraulic Modeler

Seattle, WA · On-site +1

$90K - $125K/yr

Minimum of 2 years of experience in hydraulic and hydrologic modeling for municipal utility systems. * EIT certification required; PE license or ability to obtain within 12-24 months preferred.

Hydraulic Modeler

Portland, OR · On-site +1

$90K - $125K/yr

Minimum of 2 years of experience in hydraulic and hydrologic modeling for municipal utility systems. * EIT certification required; PE license or ability to obtain within 12-24 months preferred.

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Showing results 1-20

Hydrologic Modeling information

See salary details

$29K

$93.9K

$133.5K

How much do hydrologic modeling jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for hydrologic modeling in the United States is $93,893.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $79,000.00 and $108,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is hydrologic modeling?

Hydrologic modeling is the process of simulating the movement, distribution, and quality of water within natural and built environments using mathematical models. These models help scientists and engineers predict how water flows through rivers, lakes, and underground aquifers, and how it is affected by factors like rainfall, land use, and climate change. Hydrologic modeling is essential for water resource management, flood forecasting, and environmental protection. The models can range from simple calculations to complex computer simulations, depending on the needs of a particular study or project.

What is the difference between Hydrologic Modeling vs Hydrologist?

AspectHydrologic ModelingHydrologist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Hydrology, Environmental Science, or related fields; technical skills in modeling softwareBachelor's or Master's in Hydrology, Environmental Science, or related fields; often includes fieldwork experience
Work EnvironmentPrimarily office-based, working with computer models and data analysisFieldwork and office work, collecting data and analyzing hydrological systems
Employer & Industry UsageEnvironmental agencies, consulting firms, research institutionsGovernment agencies, research institutions, consulting firms

Hydrologic Modeling focuses on creating computer simulations of water systems to predict behavior, while Hydrologists study water resources through fieldwork and data analysis. Both roles often collaborate but differ in their primary methods and tools.

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

To thrive as a Hydrologic Modeler, you need a strong background in hydrology, mathematics, and environmental science, typically supported by a relevant degree such as civil engineering or environmental engineering. Expertise in modeling software like HEC-HMS, SWMM, or MODFLOW, as well as proficiency with GIS and programming languages such as Python or MATLAB, is often required. Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are crucial soft skills that help convey complex findings to stakeholders. These competencies are essential for developing accurate models, informing water resource management decisions, and collaborating effectively within multidisciplinary teams.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in hydrologic modeling roles, and how can they be addressed?

Hydrologic modeling professionals often encounter challenges such as managing large and complex datasets, ensuring model accuracy given limited or imperfect data, and adapting models to changing environmental conditions. Collaborating closely with engineers, GIS specialists, and field technicians is crucial to verify model inputs and outputs. Staying updated on the latest modeling software and methodologies, as well as participating in cross-disciplinary team meetings, can help address these challenges and ensure robust, reliable hydrologic predictions.
Infographic showing various Hydrologic Modeling job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 8% Internship, 8% As Needed, 61% Full Time, and 23% Temporary. Highlights an 84% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $93,893 per year, or $45.1 per hour.
Hydrologist III - IV

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 26 days ago


Texas Juvenile Justice Department rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

356th of 643 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Company Description

The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality strives to protect our state's public health and natural resources consistent with sustainable economic development. Our goal is clean air, clean water, and the safe management of waste.

Job Description

APPLY ON TCEQ WEBSITE ONLY

https://capps.taleo.net/careersection/582/jobdetail.ftl?job=00051034&tz=GMT-06%3A00&tzname=America%2FChicago

Are you an experienced Hydrologist, ready for a unique opportunity to grow with an environmental state agency?

YOUR FUTURE TEAM

As a hydrologist within the TCEQ's Office of Water, you will join the Water Availability Division's Rio Grande Watermaster Program, responsible for monitoring streamflow and reservoir levels and managing water rights within the Rio Grande.

See details about what we do.

See details about the Rio Grande Watermaster program

See details about surface water rights and water availability

HydrologistThe level of complexity for the tasks below will vary based on applicants' minimum qualifications. 

HERE'S WHAT YOU'LL BE DOING...

  • These positions' primary responsibility will be to perform advanced hydrological analyses for the Rio Grande Watermaster Program and assist in providing technical support for the Rio Grande and Pecos River Compacts and international water treaties.
  • The position requires skilled communication to present technical or regulatory information to governmental agencies, stakeholders, the public, and agency staff. The position will also represent the agency on inter- and intra- agency committees and/or workgroups, and facilitate or participate in public meetings. 
  • Specifically, these positions will:
  • Lead and/or conduct advanced senior-level hydrological analyses of Rio Grande Watermaster Program operations using Water Availability models (WAMs), Riverware models, standard hydrologic practices and principles, and statistical procedures. 
  • Utilize Microsoft Excel's advanced features to analyze complex surface water hydrologic data and accounting.
  • Provide technical support for international water treaties using hydrologic modeling and statistical analyses to identify data issues and determine long-term trends.   
  • Provide technical support for the Rio Grande and Pecos River Compacts including the preparation of annual accountings of water deliveries for the State of Texas.
Qualifications

KEY QUALIFICATIONS

  • Experience or academic coursework, that includes performing complex surface water hydrological analysis. 
  • Experience working with RiverWare.
  • Experience with the legal framework governing water rights in Texas, including management of Texas' water rights in the Amistad/Falcon reservoir system.
  • Experience using Water Availability Model (WAMS) and/or surface water simulation models such as Riverware. 
  • Experience working with Excel and compiling and analyzing large volumes of data.

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE

Hydrologist III

A bachelor's degree in hydrology, engineering, geology, mathematics, or natural or physical science from an accredited college or university, plus four years of full-time experience performing hydrologic work of similar character, scope, and complexity in the areas listed in examples of work performed.

OR 

A master's degree in hydrology, engineering, geology, mathematics, or a natural or physical science from an accredited college or university, plus three years of the full-time experience.

OR 

A doctorate in hydrology, engineering, geology, mathematics, or a natural or physical science from an accredited college or university, plus two years of the full-time experience.

Hydrologist IV

A bachelor's degree in hydrology, engineering, geology, mathematics, or natural or physical science from an accredited college or university, plus six years of full-time experience performing hydrologic work of similar character, scope, and complexity in the areas listed in examples of work performed.

OR

A master's degree in hydrology, engineering, geology, mathematics, or a natural or physical science from an accredited college or university, plus five years of the full-time experience.

OR

A doctorate in hydrology, engineering, geology, mathematics, or a natural or physical science from an accredited college or university, plus four years of the fulltime experience.

TRANSCRIPTS / COLLEGE HOURS OR COURSE WORK

See instructions on how to attach documents. A copy of your official college transcript or evaluation of foreign credentials for U.S. equivalency in CAPPS is required if needed to meet the minimum qualification requirements outlined above.

BENEFITS

  • Optional 401(k) and 457 plans
  • Insurance: Health, Vision, Dental, and optional FSA
  • Paid day(s) off from work on national holidays and holidays that the state observes
  • Professional development opportunities
  • Longevity pay based on your number of years working for the state
  • Wellness Program and Activities
  • Onsite Nurse Practitioner in HQ
  • Work-Life Balance

CONDITION OF EMPLOYMENT

TCEQ will conduct a criminal history records search, driving history (if required for the job) on candidates offered employment.

In compliance with ADA, if you need any special accommodations during the employment process, please contact HRSS for assistance at (512) 239-0102.

MILITARY OCCUPATIONAL SPECIALTY (MOS) CODES

Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) codes can be found at: https://hr.sao.texas.gov/CompensationSystem/JobDescriptions/. Please click the hyperlink under 'Occupational Category' for the respective Class Title.

Texas Commission on Environmental Quality is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Additional Information

APPLY ON TCEQ WEBSITE ONLY

https://capps.taleo.net/careersection/582/jobdetail.ftl?job=00051034&tz=GMT-06%3A00&tzname=America%2FChicago