How to become hydrologistseducation, training, experience and the steps to enter
Median annual pay
$96,600
25th–75th pct. $77,210–$122,830
Top pay (est.)
$199,100
Top 10% $153,130
Pay in 5 years
$109,400est.
2031
Pay in 10 years
$123,800est.
$106,500–$143,800
Outlook score
43/100
★★☆☆☆ Below average
AI replacement risk
62%
High
Job growth (10 yr)
+1.5%
400 openings / yr
How to become hydrologists
Typical education
Bachelor's degree
BLS
Related experience
None
On-the-job training
None
A step-by-step guide for this occupation is being prepared. The education, training and experience data above show the typical path.
Skills, education and requirements for Hydrologists
Key skills
O*NET skill level ratings (0–7).
Key knowledge areas
What the work involves
Processing InformationAnalyzing Data or InformationUpdating and Using Relevant KnowledgeGetting InformationInterpreting the Meaning of Information for OthersMaking Decisions and Solving ProblemsThinking CreativelyIdentifying Objects, Actions, and Events
Important abilities
Oral ExpressionOral ComprehensionWritten ExpressionWritten ComprehensionInductive ReasoningDeductive Reasoning
Training before entry
Related work experience
Job Zone 4 — considerable preparation needed (O*NET)
Difficulty of entry: ★★☆☆☆ Fairly easy (from education, training, experience and Job Zone)
Career path and how to earn more as hydrologists
Career-path guidance is being prepared. Pay by percentile is shown in the Pay section.
Pay and employment figures are national statistics. Projected pay, outlook scores and AI replacement risk are estimates from the Shigoto Zukan model, not guarantees. To request a correction, use the contact form. How to read the data
Sources: BLS OEWS May 2025; BLS Employment Projections 2025–35; O*NET 31.0 Database by USDOL/ETA (CC BY 4.0), modified by Shigoto Zukan. Pay ranges, projections and scores are Shigoto Zukan estimates.