Collect and organize data concerning the distribution and circulation of ground and surface water, and data on its physical, chemical, and biological properties. Measure and report on flow rates and ground water levels, maintain field equipment, collect water samples, install and collect sampling equipment, and process samples for shipment to testing laboratories. May collect data on behalf of hydrologists, engineers, developers, government agencies, or agriculture.
SOC: 19-4044.00
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generated
Key competencies for this occupation at a glance
KnowledgeInterpret hydrologic modeling outputs and seepage analysis results using specialized software such as GEO-SLOPE SEEP/W to support groundwater assessments.
Proficient
Hands-onOperate water sampling equipment and flow measurement devices in varied field environments including streams, wells, and groundwater sites.
Developing
KnowledgeApply data collection protocols for surface and groundwater monitoring following regulatory standards and agency-specific procedures.
Developing
Hands-onCalibrate hydrologic field instrumentation and sampling equipment performing routine maintenance to ensure measurement accuracy.
Developing
KnowledgeAnalyze flow rate data and groundwater level measurements using Microsoft Excel and database management systems to identify trends and anomalies.
Developing
KnowledgeApply geographic information system (GIS) software to map water resource distribution and circulation patterns using ESRI ArcGIS platforms.
Developing
Hands-onExecute water sample collection and preservation procedures preparing samples for laboratory shipment according to chain-of-custody requirements.
Developing
KnowledgeCompile hydrologic data on physical, chemical, and biological water properties organizing field observations into standardized databases using Microsoft Access.
Developing
MindsetEngage with hydrologists, engineers, government agencies, and agricultural stakeholders providing technical data support and field-based insights for water resource projects.
Developing
Hands-onPerform installation and retrieval of automated sampling equipment at remote monitoring stations under varying environmental conditions.
Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Hydrologic Technicians (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
2,940
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $40,330. 25th percentile: U.S. $47,450. 50th percentile: U.S. $58,570. 75th percentile: U.S. $79,790. 90th percentile: U.S. $94,310. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
U.S.
Metric
U.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less
$40,330
10% of workers earn the following or more
$94,310
Workers on average earn
$64,410
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
