Groundwater Hydrologist

I. JOB SUMMARY

Main Topic: Environment and Society
Secondary Topic: Physical Geography

Overview: Groundwater hydrologist is a type of hydrologist that focuses on water below the Earth’s surface. In general, hydrologists sample and measure properties of water, analyze environmental data, collect samples for analysis, forecasts the future water supply, and prepare reports. Some groundwater hydrologists look at water supply to decide locations for digging wells or pumping. They also may focus on groundwater clean up from contamination. In Texas, groundwater is important and both public and private groups use the extensive aquifers. Groundwater hydrologist will help industries determine the best disposal sites for hazardous materials to not affect groundwater. People with a background in geography would make excellent groundwater hydrologist because their understanding of hazards and research in water, including policies. These specialists will tend to work for local or state governments as wells as consulting for industries. Water is an essential resource, therefore this field will continue to grow in the future.

Geographers at work: Environmental geographers, Physical geographers, Hydrologists

Recommended College Courses: Introduction to Physical Geography, Environmental Management, Introduction in Environmental Geography, Natural Resource Use and Management, Water Resources, Climatology, Environmental Hazards, Water Policy, Maps and Mapmaking, River Basin Management, Fluvial Processes

Skills: Environmental Mapping and modeling, GIS and remote sensing, Geospatial technology, Field methods, Watershed management, Location analysis

Occupation Group: Life, Physical, and Social Science

Learn more about Groundwater hydrologists from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and U.S. Department of Labor: https://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/hydrologists.htm#tab-2