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Hydrologist Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Degree: physical or natural science, or engineering that included at least 30 semester hours in any combination of courses in hydrology, the physical sciences, geophysics, chemistry, engineering ...

Sr. Site Engineer

Indianapolis, IN · On-site

$80K - $110K/yr

Experience with drainage design, hydraulic calculations, and hydrologic analysis * Ability to independently evaluate and complete engineering design solutions * Experience working in AutoCad

Perform hydrologic and hydraulic analyses for site drainage and stormwater design. * Evaluate site data to provide design decisions. * Ensure designs comply with local, state, and federal regulations ...

Perform hydrologic and hydraulic analyses for site drainage and stormwater design. * Evaluate site data to provide design decisions. * Ensure designs comply with local, state, and federal regulations ...

Preparation of and/or review of hydrologic designs and corresponding information for inclusion in permit applications to a variety of appropriate agencies. Work products may include maps, text, and ...

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Hydrologist information

See Indiana salary details

$26.6K

$59.7K

$111.3K

How much do hydrologist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for hydrologist in Indiana is $59,733.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $36,200.00 and $84,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Hydrologist, you need a solid background in earth sciences, mathematics, and environmental science, typically supported by at least a bachelor’s degree in hydrology, geology, or a related field. Familiarity with GIS software, hydrologic modeling tools, and data analysis programs is essential, and professional certifications like Professional Hydrologist (PH) can be advantageous. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills help hydrologists interpret data and convey findings to diverse stakeholders. These skills and qualities are crucial for accurately assessing water resources, developing sustainable management strategies, and informing critical policy and environmental decisions.

What are some common challenges hydrologists face when working on water resource management projects?

Hydrologists often encounter challenges such as balancing competing demands for water among agricultural, industrial, and residential users while ensuring environmental sustainability. They may also deal with limited or incomplete data, which can complicate modeling and forecasting water availability. Additionally, hydrologists frequently collaborate with engineers, policymakers, and community stakeholders, requiring strong communication skills and the ability to explain complex technical concepts in practical terms. Adapting to evolving regulations and climate change impacts adds further complexity to the role.

Are hydrologists in high demand?

Hydrologists are in moderate demand, especially in regions facing water resource management challenges and environmental concerns. Employment opportunities are expected to grow as climate change and water sustainability issues become more prominent, and skills in GIS and data analysis are increasingly valuable in this field.

Is it hard to become a hydrologist?

Becoming a hydrologist typically requires at least a bachelor's degree in hydrology, environmental science, or a related field, with many positions preferring a master's degree or higher. The profession involves developing specialized skills in data analysis, modeling, and fieldwork, and gaining experience through internships or research can improve job prospects, but the educational and skill requirements can make entry challenging for some candidates.

What is the role of a hydrologist?

A hydrologist studies the distribution, movement, and properties of water in the environment. They analyze data using tools like GIS and modeling software to assess water resources, manage water quality, and support environmental and infrastructure projects.

What jobs can a hydrologist do?

A hydrologist can work in environmental consulting, water resource management, government agencies, research institutions, and engineering firms. They analyze water systems, assess water quality, and develop solutions for flood control, drought management, and sustainable water use, often using tools like GIS and modeling software.

What are the most commonly searched types of Hydrologist jobs in Indiana?

The most popular types of Hydrologist jobs in Indiana are:

What are popular job titles related to Hydrologist jobs in Indiana?

For Hydrologist jobs in Indiana, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What are popular job titles related to Hydrologist jobs in IN?

For Hydrologist jobs in IN, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Hydrologist job openings in Indiana as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, and 13% Part Time. Highlights an 87% In-person, 6% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,733 per year, or $28.7 per hour.

$89K/yr

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago


U.S. Department Of Commerce rating

8.9

Company rating: 8.9 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

121st of 849 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

This position is located in the National Weather Service (NWS), Weather Forecast Office (WFO) with vacancies in each listed location. WFOs issue warnings and forecasts for their local area, keeping the public informed of weather hazards and interacting with emergency management partners to mitigate the impacts of weather and water hazards.Qualifications:

Qualification requirements in the vacancy announcements are based on the U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM) Qualification Standards Handbook, which contains federal qualification standards. This handbook is available on the Office of Personnel Management's website located at: https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/classification-qualifications/general-schedule-qualification-standards/
BASIC REQUIREMENTS: This position requires applicants to meet the Basic Education Requirement in addition to at least one full year (52 weeks) of specialized experience in order to be found minimally qualified. You MUST meet one of the following basic education requirements:
To qualify for the 1315 series:
A. Degree: physical or natural science, or engineering that included at least 30 semester hours in any combination of courses in hydrology, the physical sciences, geophysics, chemistry, engineering science, soils, mathematics, aquatic biology, atmospheric science, meteorology, geology, oceanography, or the management or conservation of water resources. The course work must have included at least 6 semester hours in calculus (including both differential and integral calculus), and at least 6 semester hours in physics. Calculus and physics, as described above, are requirements for all grade levels.
OR
B. Combination of education and experience -- course work as shown in A above, plus appropriate experience or additional education.
-AND-
SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE:
Applicants must possess one year of specialized experience equivalent in difficulty and responsibility to the next lower grade level in the Federal Service. Specialized experience is experience that has equipped the applicant with the particular competencies/knowledge, skills and abilities to successfully perform the duties of the position. This experience need not have been in the federal government.
Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations e.g., professional; philanthropic, religious; spiritual; community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies; knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.
To qualify at the GS-12 level:
SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE: In addition to meeting the Basic Requirements above, applicants must also possess one full year (52 weeks) of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-11 in the Federal service. Specialized experience MUST include all of the following:

  • Utilizing models, techniques and procedures for hydro-meteorological forecasts; and
  • Representing an organization to stakeholders regarding hydrologic forecast and warning operations.

To qualify at the GS-13 level:
SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE: In addition to meeting the Basic Requirements above, applicants must also possess one full year (52 weeks) of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-12 in the Federal service. Specialized experience MUST include all of the following:
  • Maintaining and updating hydro-meteorological models, techniques and procedures for hydrologic forecasts;
  • Analyzing hydrologic forecast and warning processes, procedures, and services to recommend operational improvement; and
  • Representing an organization to internal and external stakeholders regarding hydrologic forecast and warning operations.
Education:

Substitution of education for specialized experience is not applicable to this vacancy.
College Transcript:If you are qualifying based on education, submit a copy of your college transcript that lists college courses detailing each course by the number and department (i.e., Bio 101, Math 210, etc.), name of accredited institution, course title, number of credit hours and grade earned. You must submit evidence that any education completed in a foreign institution is equivalent to U.S. education standards with your resume. You may submit an unofficial copy of the transcript at the initial phase of the application process. If course content cannot be easily identified from the title of the course as listed on your transcript, you must submit an official course description from the college/university that reflects the content at the time the course was taken.
Note: Your college transcript is used to verify successful completion of degree, or college course work. An official college transcript will be required before you can report to duty.
Education completed in colleges or universities outside the United States may be used to meet the above requirements. You must provide acceptable documentation that the foreign education is comparable to that received in an accredited educational institution in the United States. For more information on how foreign education is evaluated, visit: OPM Foreign Education Evaluation.

Employment Type: OTHER

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