ConsultaPedia Logo

Bachelor Degree Entry Level Careers and Jobs (jobs after undergraduate degree)

Explore Careers and Jobs Predominantly Filled by Those with a Bachelor Degree, having 1 year or less of work experience - All On One Page

Sorted by median annual U.S. salary, including % with Bachelor's Degree, and % with 1 year experience (or less).

These entry-level roles are designed for new bachelor's degree graduates ready to start their first professional position. For recent graduates who want realistic starting points that match their degree and experience level. Compare starting salaries and degree-holder percentages, then access preparation resources built for new graduates.



4 Steps to Use This Page: 1-Explore Careers of Intrerest 2-See Job Listings Matched to Career 3-Prepare for the Career 4-See External Career Resources

Here is a short Helper Video External Link.

This page will take you through 4 steps, to find entry level Bachelor degree jobs and careers: (1) Select an entry-level career, (2) Find active job listings, (3) Prepare for the career you chose, and (4) Provide web resources specific to the career you chose.

Step 1: Select a Career: You will be presented with a listing of Bachelor's Degree entry-level careers. The list may be quite long. There are two ways you might like to use this list:
1) Filter - As you enter a word, you will filter (limit) the list of careers below
2) Browse the list (Don't Filter) - You can simply browse the list of careers. There may be many that you might never have considered. This may help you to discover entry-level careers that might be of interest.

Once you have identified a career of interest, simply click on it.

Step 2: Find a Job: After you have selected a career/job title above, you will see a form asking for your location. You will see several radio selection choices to utilize the job search site of your choice.



Step 3: Prepare For a Career: In this section you will gain access to detailed information to help you prepare for the career you selected. Information includes core and supplemental duties, general and specific work activities, knowledge required, essential and transferable skills required, day-in-the-life summaries, knowledge required, software skills required, preparation required, educational requirements, training and work experience required, local salary information, certifications, professional associations, current job listings for the job selected along with multiple similar job titles, and related careers (related to what they do, what they know, and what they're called).

Step 4: Career-Specific Resources (detailed and constantly updated): Continue to scroll down the page and you will find tabs that will provide detailed (updated) links to occupational information specific to the career you selected. This information includes:
Videos: Provides a listing of video links related to this career. A great way to get a quick overview of the occupation.
Resumes: Sources for resume materials and techniques. This can help to get you started.
Job Description: Sources that provide job descriptions, which are vital to resume and interview preparation.
Interviews: Provides links that can help you to prepare for and successfully complete the job interview.
Step by Step: Provides links to resources that can help to organize the career search process.
LinkedIn: One of the best professional social media sites that provides links, opportunities, and networking specifically for careers and career development.




Step 1 of 4: Select a Career

Leading Books About Bachelor's Degree Jobs External Link
What entry level jobs can you get with a Bachelor's Degree? Scroll through the picklist (below). These are entry level careers (1 year or less work experience) related to the Bachelor's Degree level, with at least 30% of job holders having a Bachelor's Degree. - 110 specific careers are listed. Select those careers that may be of interest - you will then get links to matching active job listings, and detailed resources to help you prepare.
You can use this form two ways:
1) Enter a Keyword - As you enter a keyword, you will filter (limit) the listing to those occupations that contain the keyword entered
2) Browse the list (Don't enter a keyword) - You can simply browse the list of occupations. There may be many that you might never have considered. This may help you to discover jobs that might be of interest.

Enter a Keyword (filter the list below)
OR - leave blank and scroll through the choices:



Select a Job Title - Sorted by Annual Salary -(scroll and Select) :
Legend: Career Title Link / (% having Bachelor's Degree) / (% having less than 1 year experience) / (Median Annual U.S. Salary)

Water Resource Specialists / 50.00% / 36.37% / ($157,740)
Medical Dosimetrists / 75.00% / 30.00% / ($132,880)
Actuaries / 89.28% / 82.14% / ($120,000)
Remote Sensing Scientists and Technologists / 76.00% / 36.00% / ($112,280)
Chemical Engineers / 95.65% / 78.26% / ($112,100)
Solar Energy Systems Engineers / 55.56% / 32.13% / ($111,970)
Photonics Engineers / 52.38% / 34.79% / ($111,970)
Orthoptists / 85.71% / 53.57% / ($107,990)
Materials Scientists / 66.66% / 52.38% / ($106,160)
Materials Engineers / 52.38% / 38.09% / ($104,100)
Computer Systems Analysts / 41.93% / 31.42% / ($103,800)
Fire-Prevention and Protection Engineers / 88.47% / 46.16% / ($103,690)
Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers / 50.00% / 41.17% / ($101,800)
Bioengineers and Biomedical Engineers / 43.48% / 52.18% / ($100,730)
Environmental Engineers / 66.66% / 61.91% / ($100,090)
Computer Programmers / 88.04% / 40.18% / ($99,700)
Automotive Engineers / 71.43% / 38.09% / ($99,510)
Fuel Cell Engineers / 57.14% / 45.47% / ($99,510)
Manufacturing Engineers / 76.00% / 34.61% / ($99,380)
Human Factors Engineers and Ergonomists / 50.00% / 45.00% / ($99,380)
Video Game Designers / 55.00% / 40.00% / ($98,540)
Radiation Therapists / 37.54% / 42.76% / ($98,300)
Low Vision Therapists, Orientation and Mobility Specialists, and Vision Rehabilitation Therapists / 39.13% / 73.92% / ($96,370)
Transportation Engineers / 86.36% / 40.91% / ($95,890)
Water/Wastewater Engineers / 69.57% / 50.00% / ($95,890)
Transportation Planners / 55.00% / 35.00% / ($95,890)
Geoscientists, Except Hydrologists and Geographers / 40.62% / 53.13% / ($92,580)
Intelligence Analysts / 73.92% / 30.43% / ($91,100)
Molecular and Cellular Biologists / 34.62% / 38.46% / ($91,100)
Geographers / 45.00% / 45.00% / ($90,880)
Hydrologists / 43.48% / 45.46% / ($88,770)
Agricultural Engineers / 75.00% / 35.00% / ($88,750)
Acute Care Nurses / 66.66% / 52.38% / ($86,070)
Registered Nurses / 55.92% / 37.83% / ($86,070)
Critical Care Nurses / 50.00% / 60.71% / ($86,070)
Microbiologists / 72.73% / 54.55% / ($85,470)
Web Developers / 50.00% / 33.33% / ($84,960)
First-Line Supervisors of Non-Retail Sales Workers / 44.97% / 30.56% / ($84,570)
Financial Examiners / 95.66% / 47.83% / ($84,300)
Operations Research Analysts / 42.85% / 40.00% / ($83,640)
Food Scientists and Technologists / 81.82% / 54.55% / ($82,090)
Chemical Plant and System Operators / 36.27% / 34.85% / ($80,030)
Online Merchants / 41.29% / 37.80% / ($79,590)
Credit Analysts / 95.00% / 30.00% / ($79,420)
Logistics Engineers / 73.91% / 39.14% / ($79,400)
Landscape Architects / 95.00% / 36.84% / ($79,320)
Insurance Underwriters / 73.33% / 40.00% / ($77,860)
Commercial and Industrial Designers / 67.92% / 32.87% / ($76,250)
Cartographers and Photogrammetrists / 31.50% / 56.99% / ($76,210)
Environmental Compliance Inspectors / 75.00% / 40.00% / ($75,670)
Coroners / 50.00% / 40.00% / ($75,670)
Government Property Inspectors and Investigators / 39.34% / 49.63% / ($75,670)
Writers and Authors / 46.95% / 31.03% / ($73,690)
Entertainment and Recreation Managers, Except Gambling / 52.12% / 30.60% / ($73,460)
Dietitians and Nutritionists / 63.33% / 30.00% / ($69,680)
Electrical and Electronics Drafters / 40.08% / 46.57% / ($69,260)
Conservation Scientists / 78.27% / 39.14% / ($68,750)
Park Naturalists / 49.75% / 56.05% / ($68,750)
Surveyors / 47.37% / 30.00% / ($68,540)
Adapted Physical Education Specialists / 71.43% / 76.18% / ($67,190)
Special Education Teachers, Secondary School / 57.35% / 62.00% / ($66,620)
Special Education Teachers, Middle School / 82.51% / 53.04% / ($66,600)
Film and Video Editors / 65.10% / 32.92% / ($66,600)
Sales Representatives, Wholesale and Manufacturing, Except Technical and Scientific Products / 33.89% / 36.34% / ($65,630)
Special Education Teachers, Preschool / 63.43% / 60.73% / ($65,270)
Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education / 84.73% / 71.18% / ($65,220)
Career/Technical Education Teachers, Secondary School / 44.42% / 31.47% / ($65,130)
Forensic Science Technicians / 32.36% / 32.02% / ($64,940)
Middle School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education / 88.24% / 62.40% / ($64,290)
Career/Technical Education Teachers, Middle School / 80.62% / 56.90% / ($63,860)
Elementary School Teachers, Except Special Education / 78.17% / 63.08% / ($63,680)
Music Therapists / 84.62% / 65.38% / ($63,650)
Real Estate Brokers / 45.33% / 36.44% / ($63,060)
Kindergarten Teachers, Except Special Education / 86.20% / 75.61% / ($62,690)
Interior Designers / 84.00% / 40.00% / ($62,510)
Probation Officers and Correctional Treatment Specialists / 88.03% / 43.28% / ($61,800)
Paralegals and Legal Assistants / 46.50% / 34.43% / ($60,970)
Adult Basic Education, Adult Secondary Education, and English as a Second Language Instructors / 52.22% / 39.65% / ($60,560)
Fish and Game Wardens / 79.35% / 45.27% / ($60,380)
Fine Artists, Including Painters, Sculptors, and Illustrators / 35.12% / 42.16% / ($59,300)
Computer User Support Specialists / 47.32% / 32.44% / ($59,240)
Insurance Sales Agents / 46.90% / 72.73% / ($59,080)
Tax Examiners and Collectors, and Revenue Agents / 33.61% / 38.40% / ($58,530)
Recreational Therapists / 97.30% / 55.26% / ($57,120)
Interpreters and Translators / 54.72% / 35.52% / ($57,090)
Chemical Technicians / 43.74% / 47.59% / ($56,750)
Social Science Research Assistants / 54.32% / 46.58% / ($56,400)
Exercise Physiologists / 59.09% / 50.00% / ($54,860)
Environmental Engineering Technologists and Technicians / 72.05% / 33.89% / ($54,000)
Child, Family, and School Social Workers / 68.66% / 36.21% / ($53,940)
Desktop Publishers / 38.70% / 45.93% / ($51,290)
Airfield Operations Specialists / 50.86% / 50.32% / ($51,140)
Environmental Science and Protection Technicians, Including Health / 68.18% / 68.18% / ($50,660)
Statistical Assistants / 61.28% / 36.94% / ($50,510)
Food Science Technicians / 32.33% / 67.10% / ($49,090)
Proofreaders and Copy Markers / 47.30% / 47.90% / ($48,790)
Cargo and Freight Agents / 30.75% / 74.53% / ($48,330)
Human Resources Assistants, Except Payroll and Timekeeping / 33.81% / 30.88% / ($47,710)
Loan Interviewers and Clerks / 38.26% / 36.81% / ($47,380)
Coaches and Scouts / 48.89% / 33.27% / ($45,910)
Broadcast Announcers and Radio Disc Jockeys / 35.18% / 40.27% / ($44,890)
Speech-Language Pathology Assistants / 37.46% / 85.80% / ($44,490)
Rehabilitation Counselors / 55.86% / 55.52% / ($44,040)
Teaching Assistants, Postsecondary / 57.32% / 66.98% / ($43,750)
Precision Agriculture Technicians / 34.78% / 43.48% / ($43,180)
Social and Human Service Assistants / 40.46% / 60.58% / ($41,410)
Tutors / 40.91% / 72.73% / ($39,580)
Residential Advisors / 31.29% / 65.91% / ($37,950)
Substitute Teachers, Short-Term / 40.15% / 66.44% / ($37,380)
Recreation Workers / 61.96% / 40.14% / ($34,410)

Step 2 of 4: Find a Job

Job Listings for: Hydrologists.

Search results will open in a new tab.

Note: Job search results work best for U.S.-based locations. For international searches, try searching for "[job title] in [city, country]" directly on the selected job board, or visit their country-specific website.

Step 3 of 4: Prepare For a Career

Prepare for the "Hydrologists" Career
The details below will provide a pathway to your specific job goal and help you to identify an appropriate career ladder.




Hydrologists

Description: 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.

U.S. Total Employment (2023):
6,500
U.S. Total Employment (2033 est.):
6,900
Employment Change (2023-2033 est.):
400 (5.6%)
Average Annual Job Openings (2023-2033 est.):
700
Please click on a section below to expand and see detailed occupational information related to "Hydrologists":

Core Duties

Important Core Job Duties (in order of importance)
For the Top 5 most important - How can you build experience and skill doing these? This will help now, to begin preparing for this type of occupation.
Importance (%) Description
Importance: 100 (%) Description: Design and conduct scientific hydrogeological investigations to ensure that accurate and appropriate information is available for use in water resource management decisions.
Importance: 100 (%) Description: Prepare written and oral reports describing research results, using illustrations, maps, appendices, and other information.
Importance: 100 (%) Description: Study public water supply issues, including flood and drought risks, water quality, wastewater, and impacts on wetland habitats.
Importance: 100 (%) Description: Evaluate research data in terms of its impact on issues such as soil and water conservation, flood control planning, and water supply forecasting.
Importance: 100 (%) Description: Study and analyze the physical aspects of the earth in terms of hydrological components, including atmosphere, hydrosphere, and interior structure.
Importance: 100 (%) Description: Install, maintain, and calibrate instruments such as those that monitor water levels, rainfall, and sediments.
Importance: 96 (%) Description: Collect and analyze water samples as part of field investigations or to validate data from automatic monitors.
Importance: 96 (%) Description: Conduct short- and long-term climate assessments and study storm occurrences.
Importance: 96 (%) Description: Develop or modify methods for conducting hydrologic studies.
Importance: 96 (%) Description: Study and document quantities, distribution, disposition, and development of underground and surface waters.
Importance: 96 (%) Description: Apply research findings to help minimize the environmental impacts of pollution, waterborne diseases, erosion, and sedimentation.
Importance: 96 (%) Description: Coordinate and supervise the work of professional and technical staff, including research assistants, technologists, and technicians.
Importance: 96 (%) Description: Conduct research and communicate information to promote the conservation and preservation of water resources.
Importance: 96 (%) Description: Measure and graph phenomena such as lake levels, stream flows, and changes in water volumes.
Importance: 95 (%) Description: Develop computer models for hydrologic predictions.
Importance: 91 (%) Description: Answer questions and provide technical assistance and information to contractors or the public regarding issues such as well drilling, code requirements, hydrology, and geology.
Importance: 87 (%) Description: Prepare hydrogeologic evaluations of known or suspected hazardous waste sites and land treatment and feedlot facilities.
Importance: 83 (%) Description: Evaluate data and provide recommendations regarding the feasibility of municipal projects, such as hydroelectric power plants, irrigation systems, flood warning systems, and waste treatment facilities.
Importance: 74 (%) Description: Review applications for site plans and permits and recommend approval, denial, modification, or further investigative action.
Importance: 74 (%) Description: Monitor the work of well contractors, exploratory borers, and engineers and enforce rules regarding their activities.
Importance: 74 (%) Description: Investigate properties, origins, and activities of glaciers, ice, snow, and permafrost.
Importance: 74 (%) Description: Investigate complaints or conflicts related to the alteration of public waters, gathering information, recommending alternatives, informing participants of progress, and preparing draft orders.
Importance: 70 (%) Description: Administer programs designed to ensure the proper sealing of abandoned wells.
Supplemental Duties
Important Supplemental Job Duties (in order of importance)
For the Top 5 most important - How can you build experience and skill doing these? This will help now, to begin preparing for this type of occupation.
Importance (%) Description
Importance: 68 (%) Description: Compile and evaluate hydrologic information to prepare navigational charts and maps and to predict atmospheric conditions.
Importance: 61 (%) Description: Design civil works associated with hydrographic activities and supervise their construction, installation, and maintenance.
Work Activities

Important General Work Activities (in order of importance)
For the Top 5 most important - How can you build experience and skill doing these? This will help now, to begin preparing for this type of occupation.
Importance (%) Description
Importance: 96 (%) Description: Analyzing Data or Information: Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by breaking down information or data into separate parts.
Importance: 93 (%) Description: Working with Computers: Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.
Importance: 93 (%) Description: Getting Information: Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
Importance: 89 (%) Description: Making Decisions and Solving Problems: Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.
Importance: 85 (%) Description: Documenting/Recording Information: Entering, transcribing, recording, storing, or maintaining information in written or electronic/magnetic form.
Importance: 84 (%) Description: Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events: Identifying information by categorizing, estimating, recognizing differences or similarities, and detecting changes in circumstances or events.
Importance: 84 (%) Description: Processing Information: Compiling, coding, categorizing, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying information or data.
Importance: 84 (%) Description: Interpreting the Meaning of Information for Others: Translating or explaining what information means and how it can be used.
Importance: 83 (%) Description: Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge: Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.
Importance: 80 (%) Description: Monitoring Processes, Materials, or Surroundings: Monitoring and reviewing information from materials, events, or the environment, to detect or assess problems.
Importance: 80 (%) Description: Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates: Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.
Importance: 79 (%) Description: Thinking Creatively: Developing, designing, or creating new applications, ideas, relationships, systems, or products, including artistic contributions.
Importance: 77 (%) Description: Communicating with People Outside the Organization: Communicating with people outside the organization, representing the organization to customers, the public, government, and other external sources. This information can be exchanged in person, in writing, or by telephone or e-mail.
Importance: 76 (%) Description: Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work: Developing specific goals and plans to prioritize, organize, and accomplish your work.
Importance: 74 (%) Description: Developing Objectives and Strategies: Establishing long-range objectives and specifying the strategies and actions to achieve them.
Importance: 74 (%) Description: Estimating the Quantifiable Characteristics of Products, Events, or Information: Estimating sizes, distances, and quantities; or determining time, costs, resources, or materials needed to perform a work activity.
Importance: 72 (%) Description: Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships: Developing constructive and cooperative working relationships with others, and maintaining them over time.
Importance: 70 (%) Description: Providing Consultation and Advice to Others: Providing guidance and expert advice to management or other groups on technical, systems-, or process-related topics.
Importance: 68 (%) Description: Guiding, Directing, and Motivating Subordinates: Providing guidance and direction to subordinates, including setting performance standards and monitoring performance.
Importance: 67 (%) Description: Scheduling Work and Activities: Scheduling events, programs, and activities, as well as the work of others.
Importance: 67 (%) Description: Coordinating the Work and Activities of Others: Getting members of a group to work together to accomplish tasks.
Importance: 66 (%) Description: Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards: Using relevant information and individual judgment to determine whether events or processes comply with laws, regulations, or standards.
Importance: 65 (%) Description: Training and Teaching Others: Identifying the educational needs of others, developing formal educational or training programs or classes, and teaching or instructing others.
Importance: 65 (%) Description: Developing and Building Teams: Encouraging and building mutual trust, respect, and cooperation among team members.
Importance: 62 (%) Description: Judging the Qualities of Objects, Services, or People: Assessing the value, importance, or quality of things or people.
Importance: 62 (%) Description: Coaching and Developing Others: Identifying the developmental needs of others and coaching, mentoring, or otherwise helping others to improve their knowledge or skills.
Specific Work Activities

Important Specific Work Activities
How can you begin to build experience and skill doing these? This will help now, to begin preparing for this type of occupation. Specific Work Activities appear below:
Analyze environmental data.
Analyze geological or geographical data.
Apply knowledge or research findings to address environmental problems.
Assess compliance with environmental laws.
Calibrate scientific or technical equipment.
Collect data about project sites.
Collect environmental data or samples.
Communicate results of environmental research.
Compile geographic or related data.
Conduct climatological research.
Coordinate construction or installation activities.
Design water conservation systems.
Develop environmental research methods.
Develop mathematical models of environmental conditions.
Direct natural resources extraction projects.
Evaluate civic projects or public policies.
Maintain equipment or systems to ensure proper functioning.
Maintain laboratory or technical equipment.
Measure environmental characteristics.
Order materials, supplies, or equipment.
Plan environmental research.
Prepare scientific or technical reports or presentations.
Provide technical information or assistance to public.
Record research or operational data.
Research hydrologic features or processes.
Research impacts of environmental conservation initiatives.
Respond to customer problems or complaints.
Review environmental permits, plans, or reports.
Supervise scientific or technical personnel.
Knowledge Required

Knowledge Required (in order of importance)
For the Top 5 most important - How can you build experience and skill doing these? This will help now, to begin preparing for this type of occupation.
Importance (%) Description
Importance: 85 (%) Description: Mathematics: Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.
Importance: 81 (%) Description: Physics: Knowledge and prediction of physical principles, laws, their interrelationships, and applications to understanding fluid, material, and atmospheric dynamics, and mechanical, electrical, atomic and sub-atomic structures and processes.
Importance: 78 (%) Description: Engineering and Technology: Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. This includes applying principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to the design and production of various goods and services.
Importance: 77 (%) Description: English Language: Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, and rules of composition and grammar.
Importance: 76 (%) Description: Geography: Knowledge of principles and methods for describing the features of land, sea, and air masses, including their physical characteristics, locations, interrelationships, and distribution of plant, animal, and human life.
Importance: 68 (%) Description: Computers and Electronics: Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.
Importance: 66 (%) Description: Chemistry: Knowledge of the chemical composition, structure, and properties of substances and of the chemical processes and transformations that they undergo. This includes uses of chemicals and their interactions, danger signs, production techniques, and disposal methods.
Importance: 63 (%) Description: Biology: Knowledge of plant and animal organisms, their tissues, cells, functions, interdependencies, and interactions with each other and the environment.
Essential Skills

Essential Skills (in order of importance)
These are the foundational skills most central to success in this occupation. For the Top 5 most important, how can you begin building experience and confidence using these skills now?
Importance (%) Description
Importance: 66 (%) Description: Critical Thinking: Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.
Importance: 64 (%) Description: Reading Comprehension: Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.
Importance: 64 (%) Description: Active Listening: Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
Importance: 64 (%) Description: Science: Using scientific rules and methods to solve problems.
Importance: 62 (%) Description: Speaking: Talking to others to convey information effectively.
Importance: 62 (%) Description: Mathematics: Using mathematics to solve problems.
Importance: 60 (%) Description: Writing: Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.
Importance: 60 (%) Description: Active Learning: Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.
Importance: 58 (%) Description: Monitoring: Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.
Transferable Skills

Transferable Skills (in order of importance)
These are skills that can transfer across occupations and industries. For the Top 5 most important, how can you strengthen these skills now so they support both this career and future career flexibility?
Importance (%) Description
Importance: 62 (%) Description: Complex Problem Solving: Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
Importance: 58 (%) Description: Judgment and Decision Making: Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.
Importance: 56 (%) Description: Systems Analysis: Determining how a system should work and how changes in conditions, operations, and the environment will affect outcomes.
Importance: 52 (%) Description: Coordination: Adjusting actions in relation to others' actions.
Day-in-the-Life Summaries

Day-in-the-Life Summaries
These summaries show the main types of activities you are likely to perform on a regular basis in this occupation. How can you imagine your typical workday — using these examples to see if this type of work fits you?
Activity: Adjust equipment to ensure adequate performance.
Activity: Analyze environmental or geospatial data.
Activity: Assess compliance with environmental standards or regulations.
Activity: Collect environmental or biological samples.
Activity: Communicate environmental or sustainability information.
Activity: Compile records, documentation, or other data.
Activity: Develop research plans or methodologies.
Activity: Develop scientific or mathematical theories or models.
Activity: Develop systems or practices to mitigate or resolve environmental problems.
Activity: Direct construction or extraction activities.
Activity: Evaluate programs, practices, or processes.
Activity: Examine materials or documentation for accuracy or compliance.
Activity: Gather data about operational or development activities.
Activity: Investigate the environmental impact of industrial or development activities.
Activity: Maintain electronic, computer, or other technical equipment.
Activity: Maintain operational records.
Activity: Maintain tools or equipment.
Activity: Monitor environmental conditions.
Activity: Present research or technical information.
Activity: Provide information or assistance to the public.
Activity: Purchase goods or services.
Activity: Research issues related to earth sciences.
Activity: Respond to customer problems or inquiries.
Activity: Supervise personnel activities.
Software Skills

Software Skills
These are examples of software tools commonly used in this occupation, organized from most to least important for your career preparation. How can you start learning or practicing the highest-priority tools so that you feel confident using them on the job?
High-Priority Tech Skills
Geographic information system:
ESRI ArcGIS software
Object or component oriented development software:
Python
R
Office suite software:
Microsoft Office software
Presentation software:
Microsoft PowerPoint
Spreadsheet software:
Microsoft Excel
Widely Used Tech Skills
Analytical or scientific software:
HEC-HMS
HEC-RAS
RockWare MODFLOW
Geographic information system:
Geographic information system GIS systems
Emerging Tech Skills
Analytical or scientific software:
The MathWorks MATLAB
Computer aided design CAD software:
Autodesk AutoCAD
Autodesk AutoCAD Civil 3D
Bentley MicroStation
Data base user interface and query software:
Microsoft Access
Development environment software:
Microsoft Visual Basic
Object or component oriented development software:
C++
Web platform development software:
Microsoft Active Server Pages ASP
Word processing software:
Microsoft Word
General Software Tools
Analytical or scientific software (scroll table below):
Argus ONE Open Numerical Environments
Bentley Systems gINT
Biodegration flow and transport modeling software
Clover Technology GALENA
Data visualization software
EarthVision
Electric Rain Swift 3D
EnviroData Solutions
Environmental Software and Services SUTRA
Fitts Geosolutions TWODAN
Formlink HydroGEN
Golden Software Strater
Groundwater modeling system GMS
Groundwater Software QuickCross/Fence
Groundwater Software QuickLog
Groundwater Vistas
HEC-1
HEC-2
Hydrologic simulation program fortan HSPF software
HydroSOLVE AQTESOLV
Laboratory information management system LIMS
Logger data manager LDM
Logplot software
MLPU
Parameter Estimation PEST
PRINCE
Revised universal soil loss equation RUSLE software
RockWare ChemFlux
RockWare Geochemist's Workbench GWB
Scientific Software Group AQUA3D
Scientific Software Group AquaDyn
Scientific Software Group AQUASEA
Scientific Software Group Aquifer win32
Scientific Software Group AQUIPACK
Scientific Software Group AT123D
Scientific Software Group BIO1D
Scientific Software Group BIOF&T
Scientific Software Group BIOSLURP
Scientific Software Group BioTrends
Scientific Software Group CHASM
Scientific Software Group EnviroScape
Scientific Software Group FEFLOW
Scientific Software Group Filter Drain FD
Scientific Software Group GFLOW
Scientific Software Group HydroGeo Analyst
Scientific Software Group HYDROGEOCHEM
Scientific Software Group Infinite Extent
Scientific Software Group MARS 2-D/3-D
Scientific Software Group MIDUSS
Scientific Software Group MIGRATE
Scientific Software Group MINTEQA2
Scientific Software Group MOCDENSE
Scientific Software Group MODFLOWT
Scientific Software Group MODPUMP
Scientific Software Group MODRET
Scientific Software Group MOFAT
Scientific Software Group MohrView
Scientific Software Group MOVER
Scientific Software Group MS-VMS
Scientific Software Group MT3D99
Scientific Software Group OILVOL
Scientific Software Group POLLUTE
Scientific Software Group QHM
Scientific Software Group QuickSoil
Scientific Software Group RISC WorkBench
Scientific Software Group SEQUENCE
Scientific Software Group SESOIL
Scientific Software Group SLAEM/MLAEM
Scientific Software Group Soil Vapor Extraction BioSVE
Scientific Software Group SOILPARA
Scientific Software Group SOLUTRANS
Scientific Software Group StepMaster
Scientific Software Group SVFlux
Scientific Software Group SVHeat
Scientific Software Group TUFLOW
Scientific Software Group VAM2D
Scientific Software Group WinFlow
Scientific Software Group WinTran
Scientific Software GroupWinFence
SoilVision Systems SVGrainsize
Starpint Software Super Slug
Surface water modeling system SMS software
Vieux & Associates Vflow
Visual MODFLOW Pro
Waterloo Hydrogeologic AquaChem
Waterloo Hydrogeologic AquiferTest Pro
Waterloo Hydrogeologic RBC Tier 2 Analyzer
Watershed modeling system WMS software
Categorization or classification software:
GAEA Technologies WinSieve
Compliance software:
National pollutant discharge elimination system NPDES compliance software
Computer aided design CAD software (scroll table below):
Advanced Logic Technology WellCAD
Autodesk AutoCAD Map 3D
Autodesk Land Desktop
BOSS International Visual Groundwater
Carlson SurvCADD
Integrated Environmental Services 3D Master
Scientific Software Group 3DFATMIC
Scientific Software Group 3DFEMFAT
Scientific Software Group EVS
SEDCAD
Data base user interface and query software (scroll table below):
ChemStat
Database software
EarthSoft EQuIS Geology
GIS/Solutions GIS/Key
Groundwater Software Visual Site Manager
River Lake Altimetry Product
RIVERMorph
Satellite database software
Scientific Software Group ChemGraph
Scientific Software Group Enviro-Base Pro
Scientific Software GroupWHI UnSAT Suite
SoilVision Systems SVOFFICE
Structure query language SQL
Development environment software:
Formula translation/translator FORTRAN
Electronic mail software:
Email software
Geographic information system:
ESRI ArcView
Geographic information system GIS software
RockWare RockWorks
Trimble TerraSync
Graphics or photo imaging software:
Amtec Engineering Tecplot
Graphics software
RockWare SieveGraph
StatPoint StatGraphics Plus
Internet browser software:
Web browser software
Map creation software (scroll table below):
Geomechanical design analysis GDA software
Golden Software Surfer
Scientific Software Group DTM
Scientific Software Group RMT
Scientific Software Group SURF
Softree Technical Systems Terrain Tools
Trimble Pathfinder Office
Operating system software:
Microsoft Windows Vista Business
Presentation software:
EnviroInsite
Word processing software:
GAEA Technologies Packet ESA
GAEA Technologies WinLog
Preparation Required
Preparation Required - How much preparation is needed to obtain this type of job?
Job Zone Five: Extensive Preparation Needed

Extensive skill, knowledge, and experience are needed for these occupations. Many require more than five years of experience. For example, surgeons must complete four years of college and an additional five to seven years of specialized medical training to be able to do their job.

Most of these occupations require graduate school. For example, they may require a master's degree, and some require a Ph.D., M.D., or J.D. (law degree).

Employees may need some on-the-job training, but most of these occupations assume that the person will already have the required skills, knowledge, work-related experience, and/or training.

These occupations often involve coordinating, training, supervising, or managing the activities of others to accomplish goals. Very advanced communication and organizational skills are required. Examples include pharmacists, lawyers, astronomers, biologists, clergy, physician assistants, and veterinarians.
Education Required

Education Required - by frequency of educational attainment
This shows you details about the level of education most commonly held by workers in this occupation. How can you begin planning the educational pathway that will prepare you best for this type of work?
Frequency of Attainment (%) Level of Education
Frequency of Attainment: 52.2 (%) Level of Education: Master's Degree
Frequency of Attainment: 39.1 (%) Level of Education: Bachelor's Degree
Frequency of Attainment: 4.4 (%) Level of Education: Post-Baccalaureate Certificate - awarded for completion of an organized program of study; designed for people who have completed a Baccalaureate degree but do not meet the requirements of academic degrees carrying the title of Master.
Frequency of Attainment: 4.4 (%) Level of Education: Post-Doctoral Training
Training and Experience Required

Training and Experience Required - by frequency of training and work experience attainment
This section shows you how often different types of training and work experience are required for this occupation. How can you start gaining the kinds of experience and training that are most common for this type of work?
Frequency of Attainment (%) Level of Training and Work Experience
Frequency of Attainment: 31.8 (%) Level of Training and Work Experience: Over 6 months, up to and including 1 year
Frequency of Attainment: 22.7 (%) Level of Training and Work Experience: Over 2 years, up to and including 4 years
Frequency of Attainment: 18.2 (%) Level of Training and Work Experience: Over 1 year, up to and including 2 years
Frequency of Attainment: 13.6 (%) Level of Training and Work Experience: Over 4 years, up to and including 6 years
Frequency of Attainment: 9.1 (%) Level of Training and Work Experience: None
Frequency of Attainment: 4.6 (%) Level of Training and Work Experience: Over 3 months, up to and including 6 months
Professional Associations
Professional Associations
These associations connect people who work in this occupation or related fields. How can you start using these associations to learn more, build your network, or find mentoring opportunities?
American Institute of Hydrology (AIH) External Link
International Association of Environmental Hydrology (IAEH) External Link
International Bottled Water Association (IBWA) External Link
Job Listings
Related Careers to Consider

Step 4 of 4: Career-Specific Resources (detailed and constantly updated)

This section contains detailed resources appropriate to "Hydrologists". Explore these resources to start learning more. Links are constantly updated, so bookmark this page.

Videos

Here is a listing of videos related to this career. A great way to get a quick overview of the occupation.


Resumes

Here are resources that allow you to see example resumes for this occupation. It may be helpful to see examples from others who have this type of experience.


Job Description

Here are resources that provide job descriptions, which are vital for resume and interview preparation.


Interviews

There are many great resources that can help guide you through the interview process. These links provide help in preparing and performing an effective interview, specific to this occupation.


Salary Data

Here are links to help you identify salary ranges for this occupation. These data are necessary prior to effective salary negotiations.


Raises

Here are resources that help you to prepare to ask for a raise. These links will help you to prepare for the salary negotiation process.


Jobs

Here are resources that lead to links for actual jobs related to "Hydrologists". Use these links to find a job.


Jobs

Here are resources that lead to links for actual jobs related to "Hydrologists". Use these links to find a job.


Classifieds

There are various sources for job classified ads. These links should help get you started to find a job for this occupation.


Step-by-Step

Here are links to help guide you, step-by-step, to become a(n): Hydrologists


Career Change

Here are resources to help you prepare for a career change. It is helpful to look carefully at the information provided in Section 3: Career Change (detailed previously on this page) prior to using these links. There is much to learn ...


LinkedIn®

Here are links to various posts and groups from LinkedIn ® that relate to this occupation. Great way to start building professional contacts in the field that might be most appropriate for you.


Career Path

Here are links to various resources to help you explore the career path related to the "Hydrologists" occupation.






Developed by Dr. Ralph Jagodka © 2026 About This Page