5 Surface Hydrologist Job Description Templates and Examples

Surface Hydrologists study the distribution, movement, and quality of water on the Earth's surface. They analyze rainfall, runoff, and water flow patterns to address water resource management, flood risks, and environmental concerns. Junior hydrologists focus on data collection and analysis, while senior and lead hydrologists take on project management, advanced modeling, and providing strategic insights for water-related challenges.

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1. Junior Surface Hydrologist Job Description Template

Company Overview

[$COMPANY_OVERVIEW]

Role Overview

We are seeking a detail-oriented Junior Surface Hydrologist to join our dedicated team at [$COMPANY_NAME]. In this role, you will assist in the analysis and modeling of surface water systems, contributing to projects that enhance our understanding of hydrological processes. You will work closely with senior hydrologists and engineers to support data collection, analysis, and reporting efforts.

Responsibilities

  • Assist in the collection and analysis of hydrological data, including streamflow, precipitation, and watershed characteristics
  • Support the development of hydrological models to simulate surface water behavior and assess water resource management strategies
  • Conduct fieldwork to gather data and validate model outputs under the guidance of senior team members
  • Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to integrate hydrological data into landscape and environmental assessments
  • Prepare detailed reports and presentations summarizing findings and recommendations for stakeholders

Required and Preferred Qualifications

Required:

  • Bachelor's degree in Hydrology, Environmental Science, Civil Engineering, or a related field
  • Familiarity with hydrological modeling software and data analysis tools
  • Basic understanding of water resource management principles

Preferred:

  • Internship or research experience in hydrology or related fields
  • Knowledge of GIS software and its applications in hydrological studies
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills

Technical Skills and Relevant Technologies

  • Proficiency in Microsoft Excel for data analysis and visualization
  • Basic experience with statistical analysis software (e.g., R, Python) is a plus
  • Familiarity with hydrological modeling tools such as HEC-HMS or SWMM

Soft Skills and Cultural Fit

  • Strong written and verbal communication skills
  • Ability to work collaboratively in a team-oriented environment
  • Detail-oriented with a commitment to producing high-quality work
  • Adaptability to changing project requirements and deadlines
  • Genuine interest in environmental sustainability and water resource management

Benefits and Perks

We offer a competitive salary and benefits package, including:

  • Health, dental, and vision insurance
  • Paid time off and holidays
  • Retirement savings plan with company match
  • Professional development opportunities
  • Support for continuing education and certifications

Equal Opportunity Statement

[$COMPANY_NAME] is committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and encourage applicants from all backgrounds to apply. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Location

This role requires successful candidates to be based in-person at our office located in [$COMPANY_LOCATION].

2. Surface Hydrologist Job Description Template

Company Overview

[$COMPANY_OVERVIEW]

Role Overview

We are seeking a highly skilled Surface Hydrologist to join our dynamic team focused on advancing sustainable water management practices. In this role, you will leverage your expertise in hydrological modeling and water resource management to analyze surface water systems, assess hydrologic impacts, and develop innovative solutions for our clients and communities.

Responsibilities

  • Conduct detailed hydrological assessments and modeling of surface water systems using advanced software tools such as HEC-RAS and SWAT
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate hydrological data into environmental impact assessments and watershed management plans
  • Develop and implement field studies and data collection protocols to monitor surface water quality and quantity
  • Analyze and interpret hydrologic data, providing actionable insights to inform decision-making processes
  • Prepare technical reports, presentations, and documentation to communicate findings to stakeholders
  • Stay current on regulatory changes and advancements in hydrology and water resource management practices

Required and Preferred Qualifications

Required:

  • Master's degree in Hydrology, Civil Engineering, Environmental Science, or a related field
  • 3+ years of experience in surface hydrology or water resources management
  • Proven experience with hydrological modeling software and GIS tools
  • Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret complex hydrological data
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills

Preferred:

  • Ph.D. in Hydrology or related field
  • Experience with watershed management and restoration projects
  • Familiarity with regulatory frameworks governing water resources
  • Experience in stakeholder engagement and public outreach

Technical Skills and Relevant Technologies

  • Proficiency in hydrological modeling software (e.g., HEC-RAS, SWAT) and GIS tools (e.g., ArcGIS, QGIS)
  • Expertise in statistical analysis and data visualization tools (e.g., R, Python, MATLAB)
  • Knowledge of remote sensing technologies and their application in hydrology

Soft Skills and Cultural Fit

  • Strong problem-solving abilities with a collaborative mindset
  • Ability to work independently and manage multiple projects simultaneously
  • Passion for environmental sustainability and water resource conservation
  • Commitment to continuous learning and professional development

Benefits and Perks

We offer a competitive salary range of [$SALARY_RANGE], along with a comprehensive benefits package that may include:

  • Flexible work hours and remote work options
  • Health, dental, and vision insurance
  • Retirement savings plans with company matching
  • Professional development and training opportunities
  • Generous paid time off and holiday leave

Equal Opportunity Statement

[$COMPANY_NAME] is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer and encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, creed, gender, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other basis protected by applicable law.

Location

This is a remote position within [$COMPANY_LOCATION].

Note: We encourage applicants to apply even if they do not meet all the qualifications. Your unique experiences and perspectives are valuable to us.

3. Senior Surface Hydrologist Job Description Template

Company Overview

[$COMPANY_OVERVIEW]

Role Overview

We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Senior Surface Hydrologist to join our dynamic team at [$COMPANY_NAME]. In this role, you will leverage your expertise in hydrology to analyze complex surface water systems, develop hydrological models, and contribute to sustainable water resource management strategies. Your work will be instrumental in addressing water-related challenges within diverse ecosystems and urban environments.

Responsibilities

  • Lead hydrological modeling efforts, utilizing advanced software and analytical techniques to simulate surface water dynamics and assess watershed behavior under varying conditions.
  • Conduct comprehensive field studies and data collection to support hydrological assessments, including streamflow measurements, soil moisture evaluations, and precipitation analysis.
  • Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, including engineers, ecologists, and urban planners, to integrate hydrological data into comprehensive project designs and environmental impact assessments.
  • Prepare technical reports and presentations that communicate findings and recommendations to stakeholders, including government agencies, clients, and community organizations.
  • Mentor junior hydrologists and provide guidance on best practices in hydrology and project management.

Required and Preferred Qualifications

Required:

  • Master's degree in Hydrology, Environmental Science, Civil Engineering, or a related field.
  • 5+ years of professional experience in surface hydrology, with a strong emphasis on hydrological modeling and analysis.
  • Proven track record of successful project management and leadership within multidisciplinary teams.
  • Strong knowledge of hydrological principles, watershed management, and water quality assessment.

Preferred:

  • PhD in Hydrology or a closely related field.
  • Experience with GIS software, hydrological modeling tools (such as HEC-HMS, SWAT, or MIKE SHE), and statistical analysis software.
  • Publication record in peer-reviewed journals related to hydrology or water resources management.
  • Familiarity with regulatory frameworks and permitting processes related to surface water management.

Technical Skills and Relevant Technologies

  • Deep expertise in hydrological modeling software and tools.
  • Proficient in data analysis and visualization using programming languages such as R or Python.
  • Experience with remote sensing technologies and their application in hydrological studies.

Soft Skills and Cultural Fit

  • Exceptional analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to interpret complex data sets and draw actionable conclusions.
  • Strong communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to present technical information to non-technical audiences.
  • Team-oriented mindset with a collaborative approach to project execution.
  • Commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship.

Benefits and Perks

Annual salary range: [$SALARY_RANGE]

Additional benefits may include:

  • Flexible work hours and remote work options.
  • Comprehensive health and wellness programs.
  • Retirement savings plan with company match.
  • Professional development opportunities and training programs.
  • Generous paid time off and holidays.

Equal Opportunity Statement

[$COMPANY_NAME] is committed to diversity in its workforce and is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, creed, gender, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, or any other basis protected by applicable law.

Location

This is a remote position within [$COMPANY_LOCATION].

4. Lead Surface Hydrologist Job Description Template

Company Overview

[$COMPANY_OVERVIEW]

Role Overview

We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Lead Surface Hydrologist to join our innovative team at [$COMPANY_NAME]. In this pivotal role, you will drive the development and implementation of hydrological models and assessments that support sustainable water management practices. You will lead a team of hydrologists and collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure that our projects meet both scientific and regulatory standards.

Responsibilities

  • Lead the design and execution of surface water hydrology studies, including data collection, analysis, and interpretation
  • Develop and refine hydrological models to simulate surface water flow, sediment transport, and water quality
  • Oversee field studies, ensuring adherence to safety protocols and quality assurance standards
  • Collaborate with engineers, ecologists, and other scientists to integrate hydrological findings into broader environmental assessments
  • Mentor junior staff and contribute to their professional development through training and guidance
  • Prepare technical reports and presentations for stakeholders, including regulatory agencies and community groups
  • Stay current with the latest research and advancements in hydrology and water resources management

Required and Preferred Qualifications

Required:

  • Master's degree in Hydrology, Environmental Science, Civil Engineering, or a related field
  • 10+ years of experience in surface hydrology or water resources management
  • Demonstrated expertise in hydrological modeling software such as HEC-HMS, SWAT, or similar
  • Strong understanding of federal, state, and local water resource regulations
  • Proven ability to lead complex projects and manage multiple priorities effectively

Preferred:

  • Ph.D. in Hydrology or a related field
  • Experience with GIS tools and techniques for hydrological analysis
  • Publication record in peer-reviewed journals related to hydrology or water resources
  • Experience in stakeholder engagement and public outreach related to water management

Technical Skills and Relevant Technologies

  • Proficiency in hydrological modeling software and statistical analysis tools
  • Strong skills in data management and analysis using programming languages such as R or Python
  • Familiarity with remote sensing and geographic information systems (GIS)

Soft Skills and Cultural Fit

  • Exceptional communication skills, both verbal and written, with the ability to convey complex concepts to diverse audiences
  • Strong leadership and team-building skills, fostering a collaborative work environment
  • Analytical mindset with a keen attention to detail
  • Adaptability to changing project requirements and a proactive approach to problem-solving
  • Commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship

Benefits and Perks

Annual salary range: [$SALARY_RANGE]

Additional benefits may include:

  • Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
  • Retirement savings plans with company matching
  • Flexible work hours and opportunities for remote work
  • Professional development programs and continuing education opportunities
  • Wellness programs and gym membership discounts

Equal Opportunity Statement

[$COMPANY_NAME] is committed to diversity in its workforce and is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, creed, gender, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, sex, gender expression or identity, sexual orientation or any other basis protected by applicable law.

Location

This role is hybrid, with successful candidates expected to work from the office at least 3 days a week at [$COMPANY_LOCATION].

5. Principal Surface Hydrologist Job Description Template

Company Overview

[$COMPANY_OVERVIEW]

Role Overview

We are seeking a Principal Surface Hydrologist to lead innovative hydrological studies and assessments that enhance our understanding of surface water dynamics and support sustainable water resource management. In this role, you will leverage your extensive expertise to guide projects, mentor junior staff, and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to deliver impactful solutions.

Responsibilities

  • Lead complex hydrological modeling projects, employing advanced techniques to analyze watershed behaviors and surface water interactions.
  • Design and implement field studies to collect and analyze hydrological data, ensuring rigorous scientific methodology and compliance with environmental regulations.
  • Collaborate with engineers, ecologists, and planners to integrate hydrological insights into project designs and decision-making processes.
  • Mentor and develop junior hydrologists, fostering a culture of scientific inquiry and professional growth within the team.
  • Publish research findings in peer-reviewed journals and present at industry conferences to promote the organization’s thought leadership.
  • Engage with stakeholders, including governmental agencies and community organizations, to communicate findings and advocate for sustainable water management practices.

Required and Preferred Qualifications

Required:

  • Ph.D. in Hydrology, Environmental Science, or a related field with a focus on surface water dynamics.
  • 10+ years of relevant experience in surface hydrology, including significant project leadership and stakeholder engagement.
  • Demonstrated proficiency in hydrological modeling software (e.g., HEC-HMS, SWMM, or similar) and data analysis tools (e.g., R, Python, or MATLAB).
  • Strong publication record in peer-reviewed journals related to hydrological research.

Preferred:

  • Experience with integrated water resource management and familiarity with regulatory frameworks governing water usage.
  • Proven ability to manage interdisciplinary teams and complex projects effectively.
  • Familiarity with Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and remote sensing data applications in hydrology.

Technical Skills and Relevant Technologies

  • Extensive knowledge of surface hydrology principles and watershed management practices.
  • Expertise in hydrological modeling and simulation techniques.
  • Proficiency in statistical analysis and data visualization tools.
  • Experience with environmental impact assessments and water quality monitoring methodologies.

Soft Skills and Cultural Fit

  • Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to convey complex concepts to diverse audiences.
  • Strong leadership capabilities, with a focus on collaboration and team development.
  • Analytical mindset with a passion for problem-solving and innovative thinking.
  • Commitment to environmental sustainability and a proactive approach to addressing water resource challenges.

Benefits and Perks

Annual salary range: [$SALARY_RANGE]

Additional benefits may include:

  • Flexible working hours and remote work options.
  • Comprehensive health insurance plans.
  • Retirement savings plans with employer matching.
  • Professional development opportunities and support for certifications.
  • Generous paid time off and holiday policies.

Equal Opportunity Statement

[$COMPANY_NAME] is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment. We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer and welcome applications from all qualified individuals without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, or any other status protected by applicable law.

Location

This is a remote position within [$COMPANY_LOCATION].

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