Hydrologist

Entry Requirements:

You can get into this job through:

• a university course
• an apprenticeship
• working towards this role

University

You'll need a first degree, and often postgraduate training, to get into hydrology. Degrees include:

• environmental science
• geography
• civil engineering
• environmental engineering
• Earth sciences
• ecology

Postgraduate courses

After finishing your degree, you could complete a postgraduate course. You can find postgraduate courses through the British Hydrological Society .

Entry requirements:

• 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
• a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study

Entry requirements:

Apprenticeship

You could apply for an Environmental Practitioner Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship before specialising in hydrology.

This can take up to 5 years to complete and is a mix of learning on the job and studying at an approved university.

Entry requirements:

Work

You could start as an assistant hydrologist or technical officer, if you have a degree in a science or environmental subject.

Your employer may encourage you to take a postgraduate qualification while you're working, like a master's degree in hydrology.

Required Skills:

Digital skills : to have a thorough understanding of computer systems and applications

Skills:

• maths knowledge
• knowledge of engineering science and technology
• knowledge of geography
• analytical thinking skills
• knowledge of chemistry for analysing water samples
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• the ability to think clearly using logic and reasoning
• excellent written communication skills
• thinking and reasoning skills
• knowledge of English language
• knowledge of physics
• excellent verbal communication skills
• the ability to read English
• science skills
• the ability to use your initiative
• the ability to work well with others
• active listening skills
• persistence and determination
• concentration skills
• a good memory

What you'll do:

Hydrologists study rainfall, rivers and groundwater systems to help develop sustainable ways of managing water.

As a hydrologist, you could:

• investigate the causes and impact of flooding and drought
• study snowfall, glaciers and ice formation
• use data about rivers, rain and floods to predict and manage risks
• analyse water samples for chemicals and pollutants
• work on engineering projects like dams, drains and flood defences
• advise policy makers on sustainable water use

Green job

As a hydrologist, you'll develop sustainable ways of managing water. This can have a positive impact on the environment.

Find out more about green careers

Location : You could work in an office, in a laboratory or in the countryside.
Environment : Your working environment may be outdoors in all weathers.

Salary:

Starter : £28,000
Experienced : £45,000

These figures are a guide

Working hours:

38 - 45 hours a week

Working Pattern is evenings / weekends occasionally

Career Path:

You could become a senior hydrologist, managing a team of researchers, hydrologists and engineers.

You might also work as a consultant, advising government departments, charities and commercial companies on:

• sustainable water use
• water engineering projects
• flood risk management
• international development projects and emergency relief

You could also go into academic research or university teaching in your specialist field.