Hydrologists
Research the distribution, circulation, and physical properties of underground and surface waters; and study the form and intensity of precipitation and its rate of infiltration into the soil, movement through the earth, and return to the ocean and atmosphere.
How to read this profile
BLS projects U.S. employment for Hydrologists to increase by 1.5% between 2024 and 2034, from 6,300 to 6,400 jobs. Its estimate of 400 annual openings includes replacement needs, so it does not represent current vacancies, contract postings, or freelance demand. The wage ($96,600), education (Bachelor's degree), and related experience (None) figures on this profile describe typical U.S. employees. O*NET skills describe the occupation; they do not assess an individual worker's proficiency.
Base employment (2024)
6,300
Projected employment (2034)
6,400
Projected change (2024–2034)
2%
Annual openings (projected average)
400
Pay & Preparation
$96,600
Bachelor's degree
None
None
Essential Skills
Critical Thinking (4.12/5) • Complex Problem Solving (3.88/5) • Active Listening (3.88/5) • Science (3.88/5) • Reading Comprehension (3.88/5) • Mathematics (3.88/5)
O*NET describes occupational requirements; these ratings do not measure current job-posting frequency or an individual worker’s proficiency.
BLS projections are long-term estimates; annual openings include growth and replacement needs and are not current vacancies.
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