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Hydrology Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Advanced knowledge of groundwater hydrology, hydrogeology, mine dewatering, aquifer testing, and groundwater monitoring systems. * Strong understanding of the interaction between groundwater ...

Project Manager - Hydrology and Hydraulics

Austin, TX · On-site

$17.75 - $21.75/hr

Garver seeks a Project Manager - Hydrology and Hydraulics to join our growing Transportation Team in Texas with the ability to collaborate with clients and design engineers on engineering projects ...

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$28K

$62.8K

$117K

How much do hydrology jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for hydrology 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 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.
More about Hydrology jobs

What cities are hiring for Hydrology jobs?

Cities with the most Hydrology job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Hydrology jobs?

The most popular types of Hydrology jobs are:

What states have the most Hydrology jobs?

States with the most job openings for Hydrology jobs include:

Infographic showing various Hydrology job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Internship, 89% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $62,774 per year, or $30.2 per hour.

TCEQ - Hydrologist IV

Austin, TX • On-site

Texas Commission on Environmental Quality
Executive Offices and Legislative Bodies • 10K+ employees

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 4 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


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 a Hydrologist, ready for a unique opportunity to grow with an environmental state agency?
Join TCEQ! We bring passion and drive to carry out our mission of protecting our state's public health and natural resources.
Work Schedule
Standard business hours are M-F, 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Individual and work group schedule determined by the TCEQ Water Availability Division.
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

YOUR FUTURE TEAM
As a hydrologist within the TCEQ's Office of Water, you will join the Water Availability Division, Water Rights Permitting & Availability Section, responsible for reviewing water right applications to determine water availability and whether an applicant impacts existing water rights or the environment. See details about what we do.
HERE'S WHAT YOU'LL BE DOING
  • This senior level position's primary responsibility will be completing advanced reviews of applications for Texas surface water rights. Reviews include applying state statutes, rules, policies, and guidelines, along with hydrologic practices and principles. Water right application reviews require utilization of Water Availability Models (WAMs) and/or extensive reviews of complex water right accounting plans.
  • The position requires skilled communication to present technical or regulatory information to agency staff, water rights stakeholders, and the public. The position will provide advanced level support in public meetings, alternate dispute resolutions, and Commission agenda meetings and serve as an expert witness in contested case hearings.
  • Specifically, the position is responsible to:
  • Apply standard hydrologic practices and principles, the Water Rights Analysis Package (WRAP) and TCEQ's Water Availability Models (WAMs), and statistical procedures to complete advanced hydrological reviews of surface water right applications.
  • Maintain and update TCEQ's WAMs, and review WRAP and WAM contract deliverables.
  • Utilize Microsoft Excel's advanced features to complete reviews of complex water right accounting plans.
  • Provide technical support for agency staff, water rights stakeholders, and the public through skillful communication, both verbally and in writing.
  • Mentor and/or train less-experienced staff as a subject-matter expert.
  • Produce, utilize, and manage Geographic Information System (GIS) data with ArcGIS PRO.

Qualifications
KEY QUALIFICATIONS
  • Experience with Texas statutes, rules, and policies for surface water rights.
  • Experience working with Texas surface water rights.
  • Experience using Water Availability Models (WAMs) and/or surface water simulation models.
  • Experience working with surface-water hydrologic data.
  • Experience working with databases and Excel.
  • Experience using GIS (ArcGIS PRO).

REQUIRED EDUCATION & 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 full-time 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 equivalency in CAPPS is required if needed to meet the minimum qualification requirements outlined above.
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

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