How to become a Hydrologist

Hydrologists measure, analyse and maintain the quantity and quality of water in rivers, lakes, stormwater and sewage. They use this information to plan and develop strategies for water conservation and the improvement of water quality.

Personal requirements for a Hydrologist

Able to work accurately and systematically
Able to communicate effectively
Aptitude for physics, mathematics and statistics
Mechanical ability and the ability to work with technology
Able to work independently or as part of a team
Able to work in confined spaces and at heights
Able to swim

Education & Training for a Hydrologist

To become a hydrologist you usually have to complete a VET qualification. As subjects and prerequisites can vary between institutions, you should contact your chosen institution for further information.Entry to this occupation may be improved if you have a degree with a major in environmental science, hydrology, water science or natural resources. To get into these courses you usually need to gain your Senior Secondary Certificate of Education. Prerequisite subjects, or assumed knowledge, in one or more of English, mathematics, earth and environmental science, biology, chemistry and physics are normally required. Universities have different prerequisites and some have flexible entry requirements or offer external study. Contact the institutions you are interested in for more information.

Duties & Tasks of a Hydrologist

Hydrologists:

Select, install, maintain and repair instruments that monitor such things as water levels, water flows, ground water, rainfall and sediments
Complete field observations and collect sample data at various locations to confirm data gathered by automatic monitors
Prepare data for use by other professionals
Provide advice to other professionals about civil works associated with water-related projects and activities (including dams, weirs, bridges, irrigation projects, water supply schemes, flood protection works, warning services and marine facilities)
Prepare reports on sites, data collection and quality.

Tasks

Performs routine mathematical calculations and computations of measurement.
Collects information and samples.
Controls the quality and quantity of laboratory supplies by testing samples and monitoring usage.
Prepares materials for experimentation, including freezing and slicing specimens and mixing chemicals.
Checks, calibrates and maintains test equipment.
Participates in fabricating, installing and modifying equipment to ensure that critical standards are met.
Conducts field and laboratory experiments, tests and analyses.
Presents results in graphic or written form by preparing maps charts, sketches, diagrams and reports.

Working conditions for a Hydrologist

Hydrologists work in offices and in the field.

Employment Opportunities for a Hydrologist

The major employers of hydrologists include government departments, statutory authorities, the mining industry and consulting firms in hydrology, environmental science or environmental engineering. Competition for entry-level positions is very strong. The number of available assistant or trainee positions varies each year.

Specializations

Hydrologist

Average age
35
Future Growth
N/A
Gender Share
21% female
Average full-time
54 hours
Weekly Pay
N/A
Skill level rating
Medium skill
Unemployment
Lower unemployment
Full-Time Share
85%
Employment Size
2,200
Employment by state
ACT: 1.5%
NSW: 28.6%
NT: 1.5%
QLD: 18.8%
SA: 6.9%
TAS: 2.6%
VIC: 10.9%
WA: 28.9%
Age brackets
15-19: 2%
20-24: 11.2%
25-34: 31.7%
35-44: 24.5%
45-54: 16.7%
55-59: 7%
60-64: 4.9%
65 and Over: 2.1%
Education level
Advanced Diploma/Diploma: 14.1%
Bachelor degree: 23.2%
Certificate III/IV: 25.2%
Post Graduate/Graduate Diploma or Graduate Certificate: 7%
Year 10 and below: 7.2%
Year 11: 3.8%
Year 12: 19.5%