Hydrologic Technicians
Hydrologic technicians collect and analyze data about water systems, measuring ground and surface water levels, flow rates, and properties like chemistry and biology. They work for government agencies, environmental consulting firms, and water resource organizations, spending time both in the field gathering samples and in offices organizing data.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against hydrologic technicians and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical week involves field work measuring water levels at monitoring wells, collecting water samples from streams or aquifers, and maintaining specialized equipment. Technicians record observations, document site conditions, and transport samples to labs. Back at the office, they organize field data, enter it into databases, perform routine calculations, and prepare reports summarizing findings for hydrologists and engineers.
Who this work suits
Holland code RCI. Realistic work is hands-on, practical work with tools, machines or the outdoors. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You prefer working with concrete facts and established procedures rather than abstract concepts. You're organized and detail-oriented, comfortable with technical equipment and outdoor fieldwork, and satisfied by producing accurate, reliable data that others depend on.
What it takes
Preparation: Medium preparation (vocational training, an associate degree, or related experience).
Openings right now
- Hydrologic Technician · U.S. Army Corps of Engineers · Vicksburg, Mississippi · $40736–$97087
- Hydrologic Technician (Seasonal) · National Park Service · Multiple Locations · $21.76–$31.43
Openings are read from employers’ own career pages and public job boards and change daily. Search all openings (free account) to filter by distance, pay and how well you qualify.
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Texas | $59,530 | $88,400 | $115,210 | 270 |
| Washington | $64,250 | $85,240 | $93,270 | 70 |
| New Mexico | $59,650 | $79,710 | $97,580 | 50 |
| Missouri | $55,430 | $79,440 | $87,880 | 40 |
| Massachusetts | $60,910 | $73,820 | $92,490 | 60 |
| California | $55,370 | $70,790 | $88,900 | 300 |
| Nevada | $57,220 | $68,660 | $90,630 | 30 |
| Maryland | $49,210 | $67,520 | $84,700 | 50 |
| Georgia | $49,050 | $66,770 | $83,780 | 60 |
| Pennsylvania | $49,510 | $65,420 | $91,730 | 100 |
| New Jersey | $52,920 | $65,190 | $84,570 | 40 |
| New York | $53,290 | $65,190 | $83,780 | 50 |
All 28 states
Certifications people in this field hold
- Hydrologic Technician (HT) — American Institute of Hydrology
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against hydrologic technicians and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 19-4044.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.