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Hydrology Jobs in Utah (NOW HIRING)

Geological Survey

Superivsory Hydrologic Technician

Moab, UT · On-site +1

$89K - $116K/yr

Summary You will serve as a Superivsory Hydrologic Technician within the Utah Water Science Center. You may be required to travel overnight away from home up to 5 nights per month. You must obtain a ...

Parsons

Senior Drainage Engineer

Salt Lake City, UT · On-site

$101K - $138K/yr

Prepare hydraulic and hydrologic calculations for storm drains, detention facilities, culverts, water quality (BMP/LID) features, and other related items. * Develop storm drain plans, profiles ...

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Hydrology information

See Utah salary details

$25.5K

$57.1K

$106.5K

How much do hydrology jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for hydrology in Utah is $57,148.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $34,600.00 and $80,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is hydrology and what does a hydrologist do?

Hydrology is the scientific study of the movement, distribution, and quality of water on Earth, including the water cycle, water resources, and environmental watershed sustainability. Hydrologists are scientists who analyze how water interacts with the environment, including precipitation, surface water, groundwater, and their impacts on ecosystems and human activities. They often work on managing water resources, predicting floods and droughts, and solving water-related problems such as pollution or scarcity. Their work is essential for agriculture, urban planning, environmental protection, and disaster preparedness.

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

To thrive as a Hydrologist, you need a strong background in environmental science, mathematics, and geology, usually backed by a bachelor’s or master’s degree in hydrology or a related field. Familiarity with GIS software, remote sensing tools, hydrologic modeling systems, and sometimes professional certifications like the Professional Hydrologist (PH) credential are commonly required. Excellent analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills help hydrologists interpret data and collaborate with diverse teams. These competencies are crucial for accurately assessing water resources, predicting water-related risks, and informing sustainable management decisions.

What are some common challenges hydrologists face when working on field studies, and how can they be managed?

Hydrologists often encounter challenges such as unpredictable weather, difficult terrain, and limited accessibility to remote study sites during fieldwork. To manage these, professionals typically plan field visits carefully, use specialized equipment for data collection, and collaborate closely with team members to ensure safety and data accuracy. Flexibility and strong problem-solving skills are essential, as hydrologists must adapt to changing conditions and troubleshoot issues in real time. Collaborative teamwork and clear communication also play a crucial role in overcoming logistical obstacles and ensuring successful project outcomes.

What is the difference between Hydrology vs Hydraulics?

AspectHydrologyHydraulics
Required CredentialsBachelor's or master's in hydrology, environmental science, or civil engineeringBachelor's or master's in civil engineering, mechanical engineering, or related fields
Work EnvironmentFieldwork, data analysis, environmental agencies, research institutionsDesign, testing, and analysis of fluid systems, often in construction or manufacturing
Industry UsageWater resource management, environmental protection, researchFluid system design, hydraulic engineering, infrastructure projects

Hydrology focuses on the study of water movement, distribution, and quality in natural systems, while hydraulics deals with the behavior of fluids in engineered systems. Both fields often overlap but serve different purposes: hydrologists manage water resources and environmental concerns, whereas hydraulic engineers design systems like dams, pipes, and pumps.

Are hydrologists in demand?

Hydrologists are in steady demand due to increasing concerns about water resources, climate change, and environmental management. Employment opportunities are expected to grow as governments and organizations seek expertise in water conservation, flood control, and environmental protection, often requiring skills in data analysis and GIS tools.

Is it worth it to become a hydrologist?

A hydrologist studies water resources and environmental systems, often working for government agencies, consulting firms, or research institutions. The profession typically requires a degree in hydrology, environmental science, or related fields, and offers opportunities in fieldwork, data analysis, and modeling. Job prospects are generally stable, with a median salary around $70,000, but can vary based on experience, location, and specialization.

What is the average salary of a hydrologist?

The average salary of a hydrologist in the United States is approximately $70,000 to $85,000 per year, depending on experience, education, and location. Hydrologists working for government agencies or in specialized fields may earn higher salaries, and advanced certifications can also impact earning potential.

What jobs can a hydrology do?

A hydrologist can work in roles such as water resource management, environmental consulting, flood risk assessment, and research. They often analyze water data, use modeling tools, and may work for government agencies, consulting firms, or research institutions. Certification and knowledge of GIS and hydrological software are valuable in this field.

What are the most commonly searched types of Hydrology jobs in Utah?

The most popular types of Hydrology jobs in Utah are:

What are popular job titles related to Hydrology jobs in Utah?

For Hydrology jobs in Utah, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Hydrology jobs in Utah look for?

The top searched job categories for Hydrology jobs in Utah are:

What cities in Utah are hiring for Hydrology jobs?

Cities in Utah with the most Hydrology job openings:

Hydrology jobs near you
Infographic showing various Hydrology job openings in Utah as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, and 8% Part Time. Highlights an 92% In-person, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,148 per year, or $27.5 per hour.

Principal Engineer Lead, Hydrology & Hydraulics - Mining & Dams

BBA, Inc.

Salt Lake City, UT

$99K - $130K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 25 days ago

Job description

Your future role at BBA

BBA is seeking a Principal Engineer Lead - Hydrology,Hydraulics & Dam Safety to provide technical authority and leadership forwater management, tailings, and dam-related projects in the mining sector. Thisrole is central to the safe design, operation, and governance of dams andtailings facilities, where hydrological risk, hydraulic performance, andregulatory compliance are critical.
You will act as a senior technical advisor and damsafety leader, supporting clients in the planning, design, assessment, andoperation of tailings storage facilities, water retention dams, diversionstructures, and mine water management systems. The role combines advancedtechnical responsibility, dam safety governance, mentoring, and clientengagement.

With us, you'll get the opportunity to

TechnicalLeadership & Dam Safety Authority

  • Provide technical leadership and oversight for hydrology, hydraulics, and dam safety aspects of mining projects
  • Act as senior technical reviewer for dams, tailings storage facilities, and mine water management infrastructure
  • Lead and review hydrological and hydroclimatic studies, including:
    • Catchment and watershed analyses
    • Extreme flood estimation and design floods
    • Hydroclimatic and statistical analyses
    • Climate change impact and adaptation assessments
  • Lead hydraulic analyses and modelling to support dam and tailings design, including:
    • Spillway and outlet works capacity
    • Flood routing and reservoir routing
    • Freeboard assessments
    • Emergency spillway performance
  • Perform or oversee 1D, 2D, and 3D hydraulic simulations for dams, tailings facilities, and diversion systems

Tailings & Mine Water Management

  • Lead the development of integrated mine water management strategies, including water balances, operational water routing, and contingency planning.
  • Develop and review water and mass balance models for tailings storage facilities and mine operations.
  • Support tailings governance frameworks, including design basis, operating criteria, and performance monitoring.
  • Contribute to closure and long-term water management strategies for tailings and mine facilities.

Dam Safety, Risk & RegulatoryCompliance

  • Lead and contribute to dam safety assessments, including:
    • Dam Safety Reviews (DSRs)
    • Independent Technical Reviews (ITRs)
    • Consequence classification and hazard assessments
    • Failure modes and effects analyses (FMEA)
  • Support emergency preparedness and response planning, including dam break analysis and inundation mapping and emergency action plans (EAPs)
  • Prepare and review dam safety documentation in support of regulatory submissions and audits
  • Ensure alignment with applicable U.S. dam safety regulations, guidelines, and industry standards, as well as international best practices

Leadership, Mentorship & Client Engagement

  • Serve as a technical mentor and leader for hydrotechnical and dam safety professionals
  • Support proposals, scopes, and technical approaches for dam and tailings projects
  • Act as a trusted technical advisor to mining clients and regulatory authorities
  • Promote best practices in safety, risk management, and responsible tailings governance

Do your qualities and values matchour corporate culture?

  • Strong ethical standards and commitment to public and environmental safety
  • Deep interest in complex, high-consequence engineering challenges
  • Results-driven with sound engineering judgment
  • Collaborative leadership and knowledge-sharing mindset
  • Strong commitment to health, safety, and responsible mining practices

Summary of certifications and jobrequirements

  • Bachelor's degree in civil engineering or equivalent
  • Master's degree or PhD in Hydraulics, Hydrology, Water Resources, or related field is a strong asset
  • Licensed Professional Engineer (PE) or eligible for licensure in the United States
  • 20+ years of experience in hydrology, hydraulics, and dam safety, preferably in mining and tailings projects
  • Demonstrated experience with dam safety evaluations, tailings facilities, and flood risk management
  • Advanced proficiency in hydrological and hydraulic modelling tools
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills in English
  • Asset: Familiarity with U.S. dam safety regulations and regulatory processes
  • Asset:  Experience supporting Emergency Action Plans (EAPs) and inundation mapping
  • Asset:  Knowledge of instrumentation, hydrometry, and dam monitoring systems
  • Asset:  Familiarity with international dam and tailings guidelines (e.g., industry best practices)
  • Asset:  Experience incorporating climate change considerations into dam and flood design

Apply