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Hydrologist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Hydrologist

Fort Wayne, IN · On-site

$38.59/hr

Under the direction of the Allen County Surveyor, the Hydrologist is responsible for management of the County's participation in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) and ensuring development ...

Hydrogeologist/Hydrologist

Duluth, MN · On-site

$50K - $70K/yr

Support hydrogeology and surface water hydrology projects in the environmental services industry * Conduct field investigations, including aquifer testing, surface water discharge gauging, and ...

Hydrogeologist/Hydrologist

Madison, WI · On-site

$50K - $70K/yr

Support hydrogeology and surface water hydrology projects in the environmental services industry * Conduct field investigations, including aquifer testing, surface water discharge gauging, and ...

Support hydrogeology and surface water hydrology projects in the environmental services industry * Conduct field investigations, including aquifer testing, surface water discharge gauging, and ...

Support hydrogeology and surface water hydrology projects in the environmental services industry * Conduct field investigations, including aquifer testing, surface water discharge gauging, and ...

Support hydrogeology and surface water hydrology projects in the environmental services industry * Conduct field investigations, including aquifer testing, surface water discharge gauging, and ...

Support hydrogeology and surface water hydrology projects in the environmental services industry * Conduct field investigations, including aquifer testing, surface water discharge gauging, and ...

Support hydrogeology and surface water hydrology projects in the environmental services industry * Conduct field investigations, including aquifer testing, surface water discharge gauging, and ...

Hydrogeologist/Hydrologist

Madison, WI · On-site

$50K - $70K/yr

Support hydrogeology and surface water hydrology projects in the environmental services industry * Conduct field investigations, including aquifer testing, surface water discharge gauging, and ...

Hydrogeologist/Hydrologist

Duluth, MN · On-site

$50K - $70K/yr

Support hydrogeology and surface water hydrology projects in the environmental services industry * Conduct field investigations, including aquifer testing, surface water discharge gauging, and ...

Hydrogeologist/Hydrologist

Madison, WI · On-site

$50K - $70K/yr

Support hydrogeology and surface water hydrology projects in the environmental services industry * Conduct field investigations, including aquifer testing, surface water discharge gauging, and ...

Showing results 21-40

Hydrologist information

See salary details

$28K

$62.8K

$117K

How much do hydrologist jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for 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 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 cities are hiring for Hydrologist jobs?

Cities with the most Hydrologist job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Hydrologist jobs?

The most popular types of Hydrologist jobs are:

What states have the most Hydrologist jobs?

States with the most job openings for Hydrologist jobs include:

Infographic showing various Hydrologist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 86% In-person, and 14% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $62,774 per year, or $30.2 per hour.

$38.59/hr

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

Under the direction of the Allen County Surveyor, the Hydrologist is responsible for management of the County's participation in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) and ensuring development is compliant with Allen County Stormwater Technical Standards and Allen County Floodplain Management Ordinance. This position is covered as defined by The Board of Commissioners of the County of Allen Employee Handbook.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
  • Responsible for managing the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) for unincorporated Allen County and the communities of Woodburn, Huntertown, Grabill, Monroeville, and Leo-Cedarville.
  • Reviews proposed development plans for adequate drainage, stormwater management, erosion control, floodplain, and wetlands provisions.
  • Has in-depth knowledge on local, state, and federal stormwater and floodplain regulations to ensure development is compliant.
  • Technical understanding and knowledge of the Allen County's Floodplain Management Ordinance and Allen County's Stormwater Technical Standards.
  • Responsible for reviewing construction drawings elevation certificates, under construction elevation certificates, and finished construction elevation certificates for compliance with the floodplain regulations.
  • Responsible for reviewing and approving public submissions requesting a signature for Community Acknowledgement Forms and Community Concurrence Forms related to applications for Flood Insurance Rate Maps Letters of Map Change from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).
  • Performs review of permits and development projects to determine if the proposed development is within close proximity or in a regulated Special Flood Hazard Area.
  • Verifies finished projects meet the requirements of floodplain regulations.
  • Computes storm run-off rates, storm sewer and channel sizing, flood detention, spillway volume, and other necessary hydrologic analysis in order to accept or reject project plans.
  • Understanding of hydraulic modeling software and data including HEC-RAS, HY-8, and HydroCAD.
  • Communicates review findings to the land developer and design engineer regarding submitted plans for approval.
  • Provides recommendations to the Planning Commission, Drainage Board, and other relevant agencies regarding compliance of development in relation to stormwater/drainage, floodplains, and erosion control.
  • Maintains and organizes flood hazard studies, floodplain information, flood control, and hydrologic conditions for public use.
  • Provides policy, procedural and technical information to individuals, departments and organizations.
  • Performs on-site inspections and follow up inspections of areas to gather required data and to determine compliance with regulations.
  • Responsible for maintaining accurate and complete records for Allen County's NFIP.
  • Responsible for completing yearly recertification reports for the NFIP's Community Rating System.
  • Attends and participates in product and informational seminars, property owner association meetings, Plan Commission Hearings, Drainage Board meetings, special studies, and related activities.
  • Performs all other duties as assigned.

REQUIREMENTS:
  • Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering, Construction Engineering, or related field and eight years Civil Engineering, Land Surveying, and/or Hydrologist experience
  • Certification as a Certified Floodplain Manager through the Association of State Floodplain Managers or ability to acquire certification within 12 months of accepting the position.
  • Licensed Professional Engineer or Land Surveyor preferred
  • Valid Driver's License to operate a county vehicle and to perform on-site inspections
  • Working knowledge of basic engineering principles, particularly where applied to hydraulics and hydrology
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills
  • Knowledge of local ordinance and statutes, particularly related to storm water ordinance and design standards, and state statutes regarding regulated drains
  • Ability to optimally design and review plans for storm drainage systems
  • Strong attention to detail to inspect plan information
  • Strong computer skills including the ability to use Microsoft Office and other job related software

DIFFICULTY OF WORK:
The Hydrologist performs work that is both complex, intricate, and requires technical expertise when monitoring land development and advising the relevant public and private parties in storm drainage management, floodplain, and erosion control. Judgement is needed to adapt to changes in the National Flood Insurance Program requirements and implementation.
RESPONSIBILITY:
The Hydrologist provides substantial contributions to the development of models for hydrologic and hydraulic programs, review of proposed development plans, and coordination with applicable public and private parties. Work is reviewed for soundness of judgment and conclusions.
PERSONAL WORK RELATIONSHIPS:
The Hydrologist maintains frequent contact with other county employees and the public concerning the development of land and storm drainage systems.
WORKING CONDITIONS:
The Hydrologist works in a standard office setting in and outside county properties where time is spent standing, walking, sitting, lifting up to forty pounds, and some bending, pushing/pulling loads, reaching over head, kneeling, crawling, and frequently climbing ladders. Frequent time is spent typing, monitoring equipment, paying attention to detail, and proofreading. Some exposure to extreme temperature, dangerous equipment, chemicals, noise, and noxious odors exists.
SUPERVISION:
None
LICENSING:
Licensed Professional Engineer or Land Surveyor preferred
Valid Driver's License to operate a county vehicle and to perform on-site inspections
IMMEDIATE SUPERVISOR:
Allen County Surveyor
Please complete the application accurately and thoroughly. A resume is optional. Remember to save and submit your application. If applying for multiple positions, submit a separate application for each one. You'll receive an email confirmation once your application is received. Due to the high volume of applications, further communication will only occur if you're selected for an interview.
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer (EEO). Accordingly, all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, creed, gender, age, disability or medical condition, national origin, and veteran status, and all other categories protected by federal, state, and local anti-discrimination laws. Reasonable accommodations for persons with a known disabling condition will be considered in accordance with State and Federal Law.