About This Career

Collects and organizes data concerning the distribution and circulation of ground and surface water, and data on its physical, chemical, and biological properties. Measures and reports on flow rates and ground water levels, maintains field equipment, collects water samples, installs and collects sampling equipment, and processes samples for shipment to testing laboratories. May collect data on behalf of hydrologists, engineers, developers, government agencies, or agriculture.

This career is part of the Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources cluster Natural Resource Systems pathway.

A person in this career:

• Analyzes ecological data about the impact of pollution, erosion, floods, and other environmental problems on bodies of water.
• Answers technical questions from hydrologists, policymakers, or other customers developing water conservation plans.
• Applies research findings to minimize the environmental impacts of pollution, waterborne diseases, erosion, or sedimentation.
• Assists in designing programs to ensure the proper sealing of abandoned wells.
• Collects water and soil samples to test for physical, chemical, or biological properties, such as pH, oxygen level, temperature, and pollution.
• Develops computer models for hydrologic predictions.
• Estimates the costs and benefits of municipal projects, such as hydroelectric power plants, irrigation systems, and wastewater treatment facilities.
• Investigates complaints or conflicts related to the alteration of public waters by gathering information, recommending alternatives, or preparing legal documents.
• Investigates the properties, origins, or activities of glaciers, ice, snow, or permafrost.
• Locates and delivers information or data as requested by customers, such as contractors, government entities, and members of the public.

Working Conditions and Physical Demands

People who do this job report that:

• You would often handle loads up to 10 lbs., sometimes up to 20 lbs. You might do a lot of walking or standing, or you might sit but use your arms and legs to control machines, equipment or tools.
• Work in this occupation involves use of protective items such as safety shoes, glasses, gloves, hearing protection, a hard hat, or personal flotation devices
• Work in this occupation involves using your hands to hold, control, and feel objects more than one-third of the time
• Work in this occupation requires being inside most of the time

Work Hours and Travel

• Regular working hours and limited travel