Hydrology is concerned with the study of the earth’s hydrological cycle and the behaviour of its freshwater bodies. Hydrologists are principally involved in monitoring, managing and conserving the earth’s freshwater resources. They study the quantity, trends and implications of freshwater variables in rivers, lakes, reservoirs, aquifers (underground layers of water-bearing porous stone, earth or gravel) and glaciers. They also monitor and analyse rainfall and the transportation of water through the atmosphere.
Job descriptions vary from employer to employer, but could include:
- working alongside biologists and ecologists to monitor environmental conditions in rivers and lakes
- monitoring and recording river flows, water levels in rivers, lakes and groundwater, rainfall, and other climate variables
- taking water samples and conducting laboratory analysis to establish the chemical properties of various sources
- statistical and mathematical modelling of river flows and groundwater behaviour
- assessing environmental risks associated with rivers, such as floods or droughts
- balancing the needs of the water environment with those of humans
- tracing the risk of pollution.
Hydrologists’ research has many different applications, including:
- estimating the risks associated with flood or drought in a particular area and developing strategies to manage those risks
- managing flood and drought emergencies
- designing water supply systems and surface water drainage systems
- developing water resources, such as reservoirs
- determining the effects of a land use change on freshwater sources
- the sustainable management of freshwater resources for human consumption, both now and for future planning
- determining the impacts of climate change on the hydrological cycle.
Hydrologists use a variety of tools to carry out their work. In fieldwork, they may use equipment for measuring and surveying, such as flow meters and global positioning systems (GPS). Computers and specialist software are important for tasks, such as recording rainfall data and predicting the likelihood of a flood, or developing mathematical models to simulate the flow of water in and out of a river channel.
Hydrologists generally work closely with numerous other professionals, such as civil engineers, water engineers, water resource planners, policy makers, biologists, ecologists and chemists.
Hours and environment
Hydrologists usually work conventional office hours, from Monday to Friday. Additional hours in the evenings or at weekends may be needed to meet deadlines or deal with emergency situations.
Many hydrologists are office-based. Time spent working in the field varies from job to job. Fieldwork involves working outdoors in all weather conditions and may involve physical work, such as handling equipment and carrying out maintenance to monitoring instruments
Some jobs involve travel, throughout Ireland and overseas, and periods away from home. A driving licence is generally considered essential.
Salary and other benefits
These figures are only a guide, as actual rates of pay may vary, depending on the employer and where people live.
- Starting salaries for hydrologists may be between €25,000 and €30,000 a year.
- This may rise to between €30,000 and €40,000 for those with experience.
- Hydrologists at the highest levels can earn in excess of €45,000.
Skills and personal qualities
A hydrologist should:
- have mathematical, geographical, scientific and technical skills
- have good IT skills
- be practical and logical
- have good problem-solving skills
- be able to understand maps and other visual methods of describing and recording landscape characteristics
- have good communication skills
- be able to work both as a member of a team and independently
- have good organisational and time-management skills.
Interests
It is important to:
- be interested in the protection and sustainable management of the environment
- understand the demands of society in relation to water supply.
Getting in
Hydrology is growing in importance, as climate change and environmental issues continue to affect the planet. There are about 2,000 hydrologists in the UK, and demand is increasing.
Hydrologists are employed by:
- government agencies – to develop policies and manage the environment
- international organisations – to advise on and implement solutions to ecological problems, and play a part in emergency relief
- firms of consultants – to advise organisations concerned with civil engineering, and environmental management and assessment
- universities and research institutes – to educate students and carry out investigative research into new analytical techniques
- utility companies and public authorities – to provide water supply and sewerage services.
There are opportunities throughout Ireland and overseas work may also be available. There may be strong competition for entry-level posts, but there is a shortage of skilled, experienced applicants for vacancies at senior level.
Vacancies are normally advertised in professional magazines, on the websites of employers, recruitment agencies and professional bodies, such as the British Hydrological Society and The Chartered Institution of Water and Environmental Management (CIWEM).
Entry routes
Most hydrologists hold a degree in a relevant subject, such as geography, environmental science, civil engineering or mathematics.
Most hydrologists also have a postgraduate qualification in a subject such as water resources or engineering hydrology. Entry to a postgraduate course normally requires a good first degree in a relevant subject.
The CIWEM accredits a number of undergraduate and postgraduate courses, and details of relevant universities are on its website.
Useful Links:
The Chartered Institution of Water and Environmental Management (CIWEM)
International Association of Hydrogeologists Irish Group Website