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Hydrology Jobs in Santa Rosa, CA (NOW HIRING)

Sherwoodengineers

Civil - Project Engineer

Petaluma, CA · On-site

$112 - $137/hr

Analyzes reports, maps, drawings, blueprints, tests, and aerial photographs on soil composition, terrain, hydrological characteristics, and other topographical and geologic data to plan and design ...

BKF

Project Manager - Water Resources, Pipelines

Napa, CA · On-site

$123K - $172K/yr

Ability to lead design and project management efforts across a range of water infrastructure projects, including pipelines, pump stations, tanks, planning studies, hydrology/hydraulic evaluations ...

Sherwoodengineers

Project Engineer

Petaluma, CA · On-site

$112 - $137/hr

Analyzes reports, maps, drawings, blueprints, tests, and aerial photographs on soil composition, terrain, hydrological characteristics, and other topographical and geologic data to plan and design ...

Sherwood Design Engineers

Civil - Project Engineer

Napa, CA · On-site

$96K - $128K/yr

Analyzes reports, maps, drawings, blueprints, tests, and aerial photographs on soil composition, terrain, hydrological characteristics, and other topographical and geologic data to plan and design ...

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All JobsHydrology JobsHydrology Jobs in Santa Rosa, CA

Hydrology information

See Santa Rosa, CA salary details

$30.6K

$68.6K

$127.9K

How much do hydrology jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for hydrology in Santa Rosa, CA is $68,633.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41,500.00 and $96,800.00 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 popular job titles related to Hydrology jobs in Santa Rosa, CA?

For Hydrology jobs in Santa Rosa, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Santa Rosa, CA are hiring for Hydrology jobs?

Cities near Santa Rosa, CA with the most Hydrology job openings:

Hydrology jobs near you
Infographic showing various Hydrology job openings in Santa Rosa, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $68,633 per year, or $33 per hour.

Civil Engineer I-III

Sherwood Design Engineers

Petaluma, CA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

Design Engineer I-III
Petaluma, CA or Napa, CA
About Sherwood Design Engineers
Sherwood is a civil and environmental engineering firm that is committed to investing in and embracing people, communities and the environment.
Our team has delivered net zero energy and net zero carbon systems, net positive water systems, resilient coastlines, natural resource protection, green streets, living roofs and more for thousands of clients in the region and across the globe. We specialize in sustainable infrastructure, water management strategies, green building design, and systems based solutions for infrastructure and landscapes. Our focus is on the conservation and management of the consumption of all site resources - carbon, energy, water, and waste. We've worked on over thirty award-winning projects, and our work has been published locally and internationally.
Founded in 2003, our award-winning projects include Hudson Yards in New York (the largest private real estate development in U.S. history), San Francisco Better Streets Plan, Greater New Orleans Urban Water Plan, revitalization of the iconic waterfront Brooklyn Bridge Park, and the 35 square-km Baietan Urban Area Plan in the heart of Guangzhou, China.
Our mission is to engineer an environmentally and socially regenerative planet. Will you join us?
Role Summary
At Sherwood Design Engineers, we value collaboration that incorporates multiple perspectives, and believe that diverse ideas produce more robust and equitable solutions. We have an amazing opportunity for a driven and curious Design Engineer focused on site civil design to support our team.
Minimum Skills
  • Typically 2-6 years of industry experience
  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering - Civil and/or Environmental
  • Exercises sound judgment on details of work and in application of standard methods for conventional and innovative work.
  • Apply specific techniques and procedures based on established guidelines to complete assigned tasks
  • Understands survey base files, coordinate frames and varying units
  • Proficient in assembling and collating plan set packages
  • Construction Documentation experience on Commercial, Institutional, and Residential projects
  • Working knowledge of Windows, MS Office, and cloud-based collaboration software (Google Apps, Asana, Dropbox, Sharepoint, etc.)
  • Proficient in AutoCAD

Preferred Skills
  • Knowledge of civil design programs (Civil 3D, LDT, Hydro CAD, Flowmasters, StormCAD, etc)
  • Knowledge of Graphics programs (Adobe Photoshop, InDesign, Illustrator, etc.)
  • Certifications or other sustainability-oriented accreditation preferred (LEED,PE, etc.)
  • Knowledge of natural systems, green infrastructure
  • Knowledge of hydrology
  • Knowledge of GIS principles
  • Knowledge of Adobe Creative Suite

Expected Outcomes
  • Physical Site Assessment and Field Visits
  • Research, understand, and summarize regulatory requirements for residential, commercial, and industrial development projects, public works improvements, or other capital improvement projects using applied knowledge of civil engineering
  • Data Collection and Processing
  • Numerical Computations in the field of CIvil Engineering, Hydrology and Hydraulics, Stormwater management, etc
  • Prepare Technical Reports, Project Specifications, and Cost Estimates
  • Create and interpret blueprints, technical drawings, and schematics
  • Use drafting tools or computer-aided design (CAD) equipment and software in design work.
  • Design naturally and physically built structures using knowledge of biology, statistics, dynamics, materials, kinematics, hydrology, hydraulics, and geotechnics
  • Oversee construction of projects to ensure adherence to design specifications
  • Ensure projects comply with local zoning and ordinances, as well as national regulatory requirements
  • Identify, evaluate, and document existing structures for signs for disrepair and provide design remedies as necessary
  • May be required to approve designs that can impact the health, safety, and welfare of the general public, as required by law

What We Offer
  • Own a part of the firm with ESOP eligibility after one year
  • Flexible working - with every other Friday off
  • Competitive Health plans, including PPO and HMO options, Dental and Vision plans
  • Learning and Development stipend to use as you see fit
  • Generous PTO and 8 paid holidays
  • Automatic 401k enrollment
  • Fun team events, lunches and happy hours to get to know colleagues outside of work
  • A tangible opportunity to truly help the environment!

Compensation:
The wage range for this role takes into account the wide range of factors that are considered in making compensation decisions, including but not limited to: skill sets; experience and training; licensure and certifications; and other business and organizational needs. At Sherwood Design Engineers, it is not typical for an individual to be hired at or near the top of the range for their role and compensation decisions are dependent on the facts and circumstances of each case. A reasonable estimate of the current range is $73,000 to $106,000. The disclosed range estimate has not been adjusted for the applicable geographic differential associated with the location at which the position may be filled.
Reasonable accommodations may be made to individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. We will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.
Employer will not sponsor visas for position. Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis.

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