How to Become a Hydrologist
Track how water moves through the earth and atmosphere, protecting supplies and predicting floods. It typically requires a master's degree, with a median salary of $96,600 per year and slower than average projected job growth.
Median pay
$96,600/yr
Job growth
0%
Openings / yr
500
Majors that lead here
Key skills
- Hydrologic Modeling
- Field Sampling
- GIS Mapping
- Science
- Mathematics
Helpful certifications
- PH (AIH Professional Hydrologist)
Is this career a fit?
Remote-friendly
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Work-life balance
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Stress level
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Satisfaction
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Frequently asked questions
How much does a Hydrologist make?
The median pay for a Hydrologist is $96,600 a year (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2025). Actual pay varies with experience, location, and employer.
What degree do you need to become a Hydrologist?
The usual entry point is a master's degree. Common majors are Earth Science, Environmental Science, Geology, and Civil Engineering.
Is Hydrologist a growing field?
The BLS projects slower than average demand for this role, about 0% over the decade, with roughly 500 U.S. openings a year.
What skills does a Hydrologist use most?
Common skills for this role are Hydrologic Modeling, Field Sampling, GIS Mapping, Science, and Mathematics.
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Take the major quizSalary and job-growth figures: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and O*NET OnLine (median annual wages May 2025; employment projections 2024-2034). National figures; actual pay varies by location, employer, and experience.