Hydrogeologist

Hydrogeologists play a crucial role in environmental protection by studying and managing groundwater resources

Your role as a hydrogeologist is to study the distribution, flow, and quality of underground water, distinguishing it from hydrologists who focus on surface water. You'll work to ensure sustainable water use and addresses challenges related to water scarcity and contamination.

You'll also interpret technical data from maps and historical documents to develop conceptual models of groundwater flow and quality. Investigations may involve environmental measurements and sampling, and using modelling techniques, you'll predict future trends and impacts on groundwater systems.

Responsibilities

As a hydrogeologist, you'll need to:

• apply knowledge of geology to understand how rock types and structures affect groundwater occurrence and movement
• interpret maps, geographical data, historical evidence, and models to build a comprehensive picture of groundwater regimes and land contamination
• use computer models to simulate groundwater flow, chemistry, and temperature, considering geological formations, surface water flow, and human influences
• conduct fieldwork and site visits for investigation and monitoring purposes
• design and commission boreholes; sample and measure groundwater and surface water
• perform environmental impact assessments related to groundwater abstraction and management
• analyse collected data to assess and predict the impact of activities like landfills, construction, mining, and agriculture on groundwater quality and availability
• collaborate with professionals such as hydrologists, ecologists, and engineers
• ensure compliance with environmental legislation and stay updated on technological and legislative developments
• prepare client reports that are accessible to non-technical audiences
• respond to technical inquiries and provide advice to clients and the public, both in writing and verbally
• manage projects and contractors
• adhere to health and safety guidelines.

Hydrogeologists working for charities and non-governmental organisations (NGOs) overseas may also:

• identify new water supplies for remote communities or refugee camps
• determine suitable locations for new wells
• test water quality
• protect water supplies from pollution
• decontaminate wells.

Salary

• Starting salaries for hydrogeologists with a relevant Masters degree typically range from £30,000 to £35,000 per year.
• With around five years of experience, salaries can increase to between £35,000 and £45,000 per year.
• At principal or director level, or as a senior lecturer, earnings can exceed £55,000 per year.

Salaries are generally higher in private companies and consultancies compared to the public sector.

Additional benefits may include a company car, medical insurance and a pension scheme.

Income figures are intended as a guide only.

Working hours

Working hours tend to be 9am to 5pm in the public sector, but longer for those working in the private sector. Long working hours may be required during field work, at busy periods or when deadlines are approaching.

Weekend working is unusual. Flexitime and part-time work is available with some employers.

What to expect

• You'll mostly work in an office, but fieldwork and site visits are also essential, particularly in consultancy roles. These can take place throughout the year, in all weather conditions, and may involve travel to remote locations. Some positions include laboratory work.
• With enough experience and a solid reputation, you could become self-employed, offering consultancy services.
• You'll frequently need to travel during the working day and occasional overnight stays may be required.
• Hydrogeologists work across the UK in various sectors, with opportunities available nationwide.
• There are also opportunities for international work.

Qualifications

A good first degree in geology, environmental science, geophysics, science or engineering, with a postgraduate qualification (Masters or PhD) in hydrogeology, geochemistry, engineering, geology or environmental science is usually required.

HND or foundation degree holders may find employment in technician-level roles with some employers.

Entry without a degree, HND or foundation degree is not possible due to the scientifically challenging nature of the work.

Employers generally expect a Masters degree in hydrogeology or a related subject that includes groundwater, particularly those recruiting for international vacancies. If you have a relevant first degree, your employer may support you to study at postgraduate level.

Search postgraduate courses in hydrogeology.

Relevant courses offered at MSc level include:

• MSc Hydrogeology at the University of Birmingham - School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences
• Hydrogeology and Water Management MSc at Newcastle University - Civil Engineering and Geosciences
• MSc Hydrogeology at Strathclyde University - Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering.

Skills

You'll need to demonstrate:

• strong numeracy skills
• comprehensive scientific knowledge
• proficiency in mathematical modelling
• ability to visualise geological formations and conceptualise groundwater flow in three dimensions
• skill in drawing conclusions from incomplete information
• capacity to evaluate complex data
• project management abilities
• organised and flexible work approach
• commercial awareness
• the ability to work well within a team
• effective oral and written communication skills, including report writing
• IT proficiency
• a valid driving licence, often required for site visits.

Work experience

Relevant work experience is highly advantageous. This can include summer work, industry projects, or voluntary activities.

Seek experience in geological or environmental organisations, such as the Environment Agency (EA), as opportunities specifically in hydrogeology may be limited.

Find out more about the different kinds of work experience and internships that are available.

Employers

Hydrogeologists work for a variety of employers, including:

• environmental and engineering consultancies, ranging from small firms to large organisations, serving private clients and governments in the UK and internationally
• research organisations, such as the British Geological Survey (BGS), the Geological Survey of Northern Ireland, and the Centre for Ecology and Hydrology (CEH)
• government regulators, including the Environment Agency (EA), the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA), and the Northern Ireland Environment Agency (NIEA)
• water supply companies, particularly those relying heavily on groundwater
• mining and quarrying companies, where operations impact or require groundwater management
• the nuclear industry
• waste disposal companies operating landfill facilities
• industries dealing with contaminated land issues, such as pharmaceuticals, steel, and chemicals
• universities offering specialist courses, for academic research and lecturing roles
• renewable energy companies, especially those evaluating renewable energy schemes and ground-source heat projects
• overseas aid organisations developing safe water supplies in developing countries.

Look for job vacancies at:

• CIWEM Jobs
• Earthworks Jobs
• ENDS jobsearch
• Geological Society Jobs

For a list of organisations that employ hydrogeologists in the UK see the UK Groundwater Forum.

Speculative applications can be effective. Business directories are also useful for sourcing potential employers.

Professional development

Large engineering and environmental consultancies may offer graduate training schemes to develop broader skills necessary for a hydrogeology career, complementing the technical expertise gained during your degree.

Most organisations provide induction training, including shadowing experienced colleagues, followed by on-the-job training and external courses to stay current with industry developments.

Membership in a professional body offers training, networking, and continuing professional development (CPD) opportunities. Relevant professional bodies include:

• Chartered Institution of Water and Environmental Management (CIWEM)
• Geological Society
• International Association of Hydrogeologists (IAH)

Further study at Masters or PhD level is possible, and some employers support this. Many employers encourage chartered status with a relevant professional body, requiring regular CPD activities and relevant experience.

Career prospects

Achieving chartered status with a relevant professional body, such as CIWEM or the Geological Society, can enhance your career.

Hydrogeology offers varied career opportunities in the UK and abroad. Career progression depends on skills and ability but can be rapid within groundwater specialisms. Regular CPD is essential.

You may advance to a team leader role, involving resource planning and personnel management. Technical progression can lead to specialist positions, sharing expertise in specific geoscience areas.

Alternative paths include environmental policy development or roles in the energy sector, focusing on groundwater use for thermal regulation, nuclear waste disposal, or studying groundwater-surface water interactions and flood management.