What is a Hydrologic Technician?

Hydrologic technicians are individuals who work under the supervision of hydrologists to collect and analyze data related to the movement, distribution, and quality of water in various environments. They may work in the field, laboratory, or office setting, and their duties may include:

1. Collecting water samples from streams, rivers, lakes, and other bodies of water for analysis.
2. Installing and maintaining equipment such as rain gauges, streamflow gages, and water-quality monitoring instruments.
3. Conducting field measurements of water depth, flow rate, and water quality parameters such as pH, temperature, and turbidity.
4. Operating and maintaining computer software and hardware used for data collection and analysis.
5. Assisting hydrologists in the development of models and simulations to predict water flow and quality.
6. Preparing reports and maps based on data collected and analyzed.
7. Collaborating with other professionals such as environmental scientists, engineers, and government agencies to address water-related issues.
8. Providing technical support to hydrologists and other professionals in the field of hydrology.

Hydrologic technicians may work for government agencies, consulting firms, research institutions, or private companies involved in water resource management, environmental assessment, and infrastructure development. They typically have an associate's degree or a bachelor's degree in hydrology, water resources, or a related field, and may obtain certification as a Certified Hydrologist (CH) through the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE).