What Does a Hydrogeologist Do?

Hydrogeologists study the composition, distribution and movement of water in the Earth’s subsurface. They may also be involved with the management of groundwater resources or contamination issues related to these resources.

Hydrogeologists commonly use a combination of fieldwork, laboratory testing, and computer modeling to understand how water moves through the ground and how it interacts with rock and soil formations. This knowledge is used to help determine where groundwater supplies are located and how they can best be accessed for human use.

Hydrogeologist Job Duties

Hydrogeologists have a wide range of responsibilities, which can include:

• Developing and implementing strategies for remediation of contamination problems
• Conducting geological surveys, including mapping rocks, minerals, or other materials found in the earth’s surface layers, analyzing samples to determine chemical composition, and identifying potential hazards such as earthquake faults or sinkholes
• Researching groundwater flow patterns, monitoring water levels in wells, and studying geological data to determine the location of water sources and identify areas where water may be contaminated
• Conducting environmental impact assessments that evaluate the potential effects of proposed construction projects on surrounding ecosystems, including wetlands and watersheds
• Conducting laboratory analyses of water samples to identify the presence of contaminants such as arsenic, lead, nitrates, pesticides, bacteria, and petroleum products
• Designing water treatment facilities such as water purification systems, sewage treatment plants, and desalination facilities
• Preparing written reports about findings for clients and colleagues, as well as presenting findings at conferences and other public forums
• Consulting with clients to develop plans for conservation or restoration of natural resources such as water supply systems, wetlands preservation, or habitat restoration projects
• Investigating groundwater contamination cases to determine the source of pollutants and the extent of damage done to human health

Hydrogeologist Salary & Outlook

Hydrogeologists’ salaries vary depending on their level of education, years of experience, and the type of work they do.

• Median Annual Salary: $85,000 ($40.87/hour)
• Top 10% Annual Salary: $122,000 ($58.65/hour)

The employment of hydrogeologists is expected to grow faster than average over the next decade.

Demand for hydrogeologists is expected to increase as more companies seek environmental solutions to their problems. In addition, demand will likely increase as states and municipalities continue to update their water quality regulations.

Related: Hydrogeologist Interview Questions and Answers

Hydrogeologist Job Requirements

Hydrogeologists typically need to have the following background:

Education: Hydrogeologists need a bachelor’s degree in hydrology, geology, environmental science or a related field. Many hydrogeologists choose to pursue a master’s degree in hydrology or a related field to increase their job opportunities and earning potential.

Training & Experience: Most of a hydrogeologist’s training will take place during their education. Students will learn the basics of the field while earning their bachelor’s or master’s degree. They will also receive on-the-job training once they begin working for a company. During this training, they will learn more about the specific processes and procedures of the company. They will also learn about any computer programs or software the company uses.

Certifications & Licenses: Hydrogeologists need a license to work in the field. Each state has a board that issues licenses for geoscientists who have graduated from an accredited program and passed an exam. The type of license varies from state to state, so it is important for hydrogeologists to research the requirements in their area before applying.

Hydrogeologist Skills

Hydrogeologists need the following skills in order to be successful:

Technical skills: Technical skills are the abilities to use software, equipment and machinery. Hydrogeologists need technical skills to operate and interpret data from various sources, including computer software, ground-penetrating radar and other equipment.

Communication skills: Communication skills are necessary for a career in hydrogeology because they allow you to convey information to others. You may need to explain complex geological concepts to non-geologists or explain the results of your research to other professionals. Effective communication skills can help you to collaborate with others on projects and to provide feedback on the work of others.

Problem-solving skills: A large part of a hydrogeologist’s job is identifying and solving problems. They use their problem-solving skills to find solutions to issues like contaminated water sources, water leaks and other problems that may arise during a project.

Fieldwork skills: Fieldwork skills are the practical skills that a hydrogeologist uses when they’re working in the field. These skills include the ability to conduct geological surveys, collect samples and analyze data. Fieldwork skills are also important for communicating with clients and other professionals.

Project management: Hydrogeologists use project management skills to manage the various tasks involved in a project. This includes creating a timeline, assigning tasks to team members and ensuring that all deadlines are met. Project management skills can help you advance in your career because many companies require their employees to complete projects.

Hydrogeologist Work Environment

Hydrogeologists work both in offices and in the field. They spend much of their time conducting fieldwork, which may involve hiking, camping, and working in all types of weather conditions. In the office, they analyze data, prepare reports, and develop plans and maps. They also may give presentations to clients, government officials, and the public. Hydrogeologists who work in environmental consulting may have to travel to meet with clients or to conduct fieldwork. Some hydrogeologists work for government agencies and may be required to travel to attend conferences or to conduct fieldwork in other parts of the country.

Hydrogeologist Trends

Here are three trends influencing how hydrogeologists work. Hydrogeologists will need to stay up-to-date on these developments to keep their skills relevant and maintain a competitive advantage in the workplace.

More Attention to the Environmental Impact of Development

The environmental impact of development is becoming a more important issue, and this is leading to increased attention on the role of hydrogeologists.

As developers look for ways to minimize their impact on the environment, they are turning to hydrogeologists for help in identifying and mitigating potential risks. This means that hydrogeologists will need to be well-versed in environmental assessment techniques and have a strong understanding of how to mitigate risk.

More Collaboration Between Engineers and Geologists

There is an increasing trend towards collaboration between engineers and geologists. This is due to the fact that both professions are essential to the success of many projects.

Hydrogeologists can take advantage of this trend by developing skills in other areas, such as engineering. By doing so, they will be able to work on a wider range of projects and be more valuable to employers. In addition, they can also focus on building relationships with other professionals in order to create a network that can help them find new opportunities.

Greater Focus on Water Management

Water management is becoming an increasingly important topic as the world’s population grows. As a result, hydrogeologists are in high demand as they are experts in water resource management.

Hydrogeologists can capitalize on this trend by becoming certified in water management. This will allow them to provide valuable services to businesses and government agencies that are looking for ways to save money and resources by using water more efficiently.

How to Become a Hydrogeologist

A career as a hydrogeologist can be rewarding in many ways. It offers the opportunity to work with a variety of people and organizations, to travel, and to make a difference in the lives of others. You’ll also have the chance to learn about new areas of science and technology, and to develop your own skills and expertise.

To be successful in this field, it’s important to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in science and technology, and to keep your skills sharp. You should also be prepared to work hard and be willing to take on challenging assignments.

Advancement Prospects

The majority of hydrogeologists work in the private sector for engineering, consulting, or environmental firms. Advancement within these firms is usually based on merit and may come in the form of promotions to higher-level positions, such as senior hydrogeologist or project manager. Some hydrogeologists may eventually start their own consulting firms.

Hydrogeologists who work in the public sector for state or federal agencies may have opportunities for advancement. For example, hydrogeologists who work for the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) may advance to positions such as research hydrologist or supervisory hydrogeologist.

Hydrogeologist Job Description Example

At [CompanyX], we are searching for a highly-skilled hydrogeologist to join our team. The ideal candidate will have experience with water resources, water quality, and environmental regulations. He or she will be responsible for conducting research and field work related to the assessment of groundwater resources. The hydrogeologist will also be responsible for preparing reports and presentations on the findings of the research. The successful candidate will be a quick learner with excellent communication and writing skills.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Conduct fieldwork to collect data on groundwater resources, including water level measurements, aquifer testing, and water quality sampling
• Analyze collected data to develop models of the subsurface for use in resource assessment and management
• Prepare reports and presentations to communicate findings to clients, colleagues, and regulatory agencies
• Manage projects from start to finish, including proposal writing, budgeting, and project scheduling
• Serve as a technical expert on groundwater-related issues, providing advice and consultation to clients, government agencies, and the public
• Stay up to date on new developments in hydrogeology and related fields, and apply this knowledge to improve work methods and practices
• Conduct research to develop new methods and technologies for studying and managing groundwater resources
• Write papers for publication in scientific journals and present at conferences and workshops
• Teach courses in hydrogeology and related topics at the college level
• Serve on committees and working groups focused on groundwater policy and regulation
• Work with landowners, developers, and other stakeholders to resolve conflicts and promote sustainable management of groundwater resources
• Provide testimony as an expert witness in legal proceedings related to groundwater

Required Skills and Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in geology, hydrogeology, or related field
• 5+ years of professional experience as a hydrogeologist
• Strong understanding of geological principles and processes
• Experience with drilling, sampling, and testing groundwater wells
• Proficient in ArcGIS, AutoCAD, and other relevant software programs
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills

Preferred Skills and Qualifications

• Master’s degree in geology, hydrogeology, or related field
• 10+ years of professional experience as a hydrogeologist
• Professional certification, such as Registered Professional Geologist (RPG) or Certified Hydrogeologist (CHG)
• Experience working in environmental consulting
• Experience managing large-scale projects and teams