Hydrologists

• Prepare written and oral reports describing research results, using illustrations, maps, appendices, and other information.
• Study and document quantities, distribution, disposition, and development of underground and surface waters.
• Install, maintain, and calibrate instruments, such as those that monitor water levels, rainfall, and sediments.
• Prepare hydrogeologic evaluations of known or suspected hazardous waste sites and land treatment and feedlot facilities.
• Study public water supply issues, including flood and drought risks, water quality, wastewater, and impacts on wetland habitats.
• Conduct research and communicate information to promote the conservation and preservation of water resources.
• Apply research findings to help minimize the environmental impacts of pollution, waterborne diseases, erosion, and sedimentation.
• Evaluate research data in terms of its impact on issues such as soil and water conservation, flood control planning, and water supply forecasting.
• Evaluate data and provide recommendations regarding the feasibility of municipal projects, such as hydroelectric power plants, irrigation systems, flood warning systems, and waste treatment facilities.
• Collect and analyze water samples as part of field investigations or to validate data from automatic monitors.
• Coordinate and supervise the work of professional and technical staff, including research assistants, technologists, and technicians.
• Measure and graph phenomena such as lake levels, stream flows, and changes in water volumes.
• Develop computer models for hydrologic predictions.
• Study and analyze the physical aspects of the earth in terms of the hydrological components, including atmosphere, hydrosphere, and interior structure.
• Review applications for site plans and permits and recommend approval, denial, modification, or further investigative action.
• Develop or modify methods of conducting hydrologic studies.
• Answer questions and provide technical assistance and information to contractors or the public regarding issues such as well drilling, code requirements, hydrology, and geology.
• Investigate complaints or conflicts related to the alteration of public waters, gathering information, recommending alternatives, informing participants of progress, and preparing draft orders.
• Monitor the work of well contractors, exploratory borers, and engineers and enforce rules regarding their activities.
• Conduct short-term and long-term climate assessments and study storm occurrences.
• Design civil works associated with hydrographic activities and supervise their construction, installation, and maintenance.
• Administer programs designed to ensure the proper sealing of abandoned wells.

Source: O*NET OnLine information for Hydrologists.

• Science - Using scientific rules and methods to solve problems.
• Reading Comprehension - Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.
• Speaking - Talking to others to convey information effectively.
• Mathematics - Using mathematics to solve problems.
• Active Listening - Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
• Complex Problem Solving - Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
• Active Learning - Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.
• Writing - Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.
• Monitoring - Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.

Source: O*NET OnLine information for Hydrologists.