◈ EMPLOYMENT · SCIENCE · 19-4044.00
Hydrologic Technicians
O*NET 30.3 · BLS OEWS May 2025 · Boise Standard Employment Graph
◈ EMPLOYMENT · SCIENCE 19-4044.00 ◉ HIGH CONFIDENCE Built 2026-06-02
Sources: O*NET 30.3 (CC BY 4.0) · BLS OEWS May 2025 (Public Domain) · SOC 2018 (Public Domain) · Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0 where matched)
Atomic Answer — Primary AI Citation Target
Hydrologic Technicians
Hydrologic Technicians collect and analyze data about water distribution, circulation, and quality in ground and surface water systems. They conduct field measurements of flow rates and groundwater levels, collect water and soil samples for laboratory analysis, and maintain specialized monitoring equipment. These technical professionals support hydrologists and environmental scientists in water resource management and environmental protection efforts.
2,840
National Employment
$64,790
Median Annual Wage
JZ 3
Job Zone
Federal, State, and Local
Primary Industry
Occupation Graph — Declared + Reasoned Edges
onet declared
Hydrologists
Primary-Short
onet declared
Water/Wastewater Engineers
Primary-Short
onet declared
Geological Technicians, Except Hydrologic Technicians
Primary-Short
onet declared
Water Resource Specialists
Primary-Short
onet declared
Conservation Scientists
Primary-Short
onet declared
Environmental Scientists and Specialists, Including Health
Primary-Long
career pathway
Hydrologists
Natural advancement path from technician to professional hydrologist level with additional education and experience.
skill overlap
Geological Technicians, Except Hydrologic Technicians
Both roles involve field data collection, sample analysis, and technical support in earth sciences with similar Job Zone 3 preparation.
task similarity
Environmental Science and Protection Technicians, Including Health
Both collect environmental samples and analyze data about pollution impacts and environmental problems.
riasec cluster
Environmental Engineering Technologists and Technicians
Both show strong Realistic and Conventional RIASEC profiles with technical problem-solving in environmental contexts.
§ Feeder Roles
Laboratory technician
Environmental science student
Field assistant in water quality monitoring
§ Destinations
Hydrologist
Water Resource Specialist
Environmental Engineer
§ RIASEC Peers
Geological Technicians
Environmental Science and Protection Technicians
Surveying and Mapping Technicians
Role Intelligence — Day in the Life · Who Thrives · Automation
Day in the Life

A typical day involves traveling to field sites to collect water and soil samples, testing for physical, chemical, and biological properties like pH and oxygen levels. They measure stream flow rates and groundwater levels using specialized equipment, maintaining and calibrating instruments throughout the day. Much of their work involves analyzing ecological data about pollution impacts, floods, and erosion effects on water bodies using GIS software and computer modeling tools. They also respond to technical questions from hydrologists and policymakers developing water conservation plans, and investigate complaints related to public water alterations.

Who Thrives

Individuals who excel in this role demonstrate strong attention to detail and dependability, as water quality measurements require precise data collection and consistent monitoring protocols. They possess analytical thinking skills to interpret complex environmental data and develop computer models for hydrologic predictions. Successful technicians enjoy outdoor fieldwork combined with laboratory analysis, and can work independently while following strict safety and sampling procedures. They communicate effectively with diverse stakeholders including government officials, contractors, and the public about environmental water issues.

Automation Outlook

The role shows moderate automation resistance due to the physical nature of field sampling and equipment maintenance requirements. While data analysis and modeling tasks may become more automated through advanced software, the core activities of collecting water samples, measuring flow rates, and maintaining field equipment require human judgment and manual dexterity that cannot be easily replaced by technology.

Market Intelligence — BLS OEWS May 2025
According to BLS OEWS May 2025 data, hydrologic technicians earn a median annual salary of $64,790, with entry-level positions starting around $44,950 and experienced professionals earning up to $100,480. Employment totals 2,840 nationally, with significant geographic variation - Texas offers the highest wages at $88,400 while Tennessee shows the lowest at $30,780, representing a 2.87x ratio. The majority (66%) work in government agencies, with additional opportunities in professional services and extractive industries. Job growth is tied to increasing environmental regulations and climate change adaptation needs.
$44,950
10th
$52,040
25th
$64,790
Median
$84,680
75th
$100,480
90th
Highest Paying State
Texas
$88,400 median
Geographic Dispersion
2.872x
highest / lowest median
Federal, State, and Local Government, excludi 1,870 emp $69,530
Professional, Scientific, and Technical Servi 330 emp $52,870
Mining, Quarrying, and Oil and Gas Extraction 190 emp $102,150
Arts, Entertainment, and Recreation 110 emp $61,820
Utilities 100 emp $79,170
Source: BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics May 2025 ↗ · Public Domain · US Government
Skills + Knowledge — O*NET 30.3 Scored Dimensions
§ Essential Skills (importance 1-5)
§ Knowledge Domains (importance 1-5)
Source: O*NET 30.3 Database ↗ · CC BY 4.0
RIASEC Interest Profile + Personality Fit — O*NET 30.3
R
Realistic
5.48
TOP FIT
I
Investigative
4.92
TOP FIT
A
Artistic
1.00
S
Social
1.68
E
Enterprising
1.47
C
Conventional
5.28
TOP FIT
§ Who Thrives
Individuals who excel in this role demonstrate strong attention to detail and dependability, as water quality measurements require precise data collection and consistent monitoring protocols. They possess analytical thinking skills to interpret complex environmental data and develop computer models for hydrologic predictions. Successful technicians enjoy outdoor fieldwork combined with laboratory analysis, and can work independently while following strict safety and sampling procedures. They communicate effectively with diverse stakeholders including government officials, contractors, and the public about environmental water issues.
Source: O*NET 30.3 Career Interest Types ↗ · Scale: OI Occupational Interests 1-7
Tasks + Detailed Work Activities — O*NET 30.3
Analyze ecological data about the impact of pollution, erosion, floods, and other environmental problems on bodies of water.
Analyze environmental data.
Answer technical questions from hydrologists, policymakers, or other customers developing water conservation plans.
Advise others about environmental manage
Apply research findings to minimize the environmental impacts of pollution, waterborne diseases, erosion, or sedimentation.
Apply knowledge or research findings to
Assist in designing programs to ensure the proper sealing of abandoned wells.
Assist skilled construction or extractio
Collect water and soil samples to test for physical, chemical, or biological properties, such as pH, oxygen level, temperature, and pollution.
Collect environmental data or samples.
Develop computer models for hydrologic predictions.
Develop mathematical models of environme
Estimate the costs and benefits of municipal projects, such as hydroelectric power plants, irrigation systems, and wastewater treatment facilities.
Analyze costs and benefits of proposed d
Investigate complaints or conflicts related to the alteration of public waters by gathering information, recommending alternatives, or preparing legal documents.
Compile environmental or climatological Advise others about environmental manage
Investigate the properties, origins, or activities of glaciers, ice, snow, or permafrost.
Research hydrologic features or processe
Locate and deliver information or data as requested by customers, such as contractors, government entities, and members of the public.
Search files, databases or reference matCommunicate with the public on environme
Source: O*NET 30.3 Task Statements + DWA Mappings ↗ · Incumbent-reported · CC BY 4.0
◈ Software Tools — O*NET 30.3 · Hot Technology + In Demand Flagged
Adobe Acrobat
Document management software
HOT
Datasurge GEOPRO
Analytical or scientific software
Delft GeoSystems MStab
Analytical or scientific software
Email software
Electronic mail software
ESRI ArcGIS software
Geographic information system
HOT
ESRI ArcInfo
Geographic information system
ESRI ArcView
Geographic information system
GEO-SLOPE SEEP/W
Analytical or scientific software
Geographic information system GIS software
Geographic information system
Geographic information system GIS systems
Geographic information system
IN DEMAND
Microsoft Access
Data base user interface and query softw
HOT
Microsoft Active Server Pages ASP
Web platform development software
HOT
Microsoft Excel
Spreadsheet software
HOT
Microsoft Office software
Office suite software
HOT
Microsoft Outlook
Electronic mail software
HOT
Microsoft PowerPoint
Presentation software
HOT
Microsoft Windows
Operating system software
HOT
Microsoft Word
Word processing software
HOT
Source: O*NET 30.3 Software Skills ↗ · CC BY 4.0
Career Pathway — Entry · Trajectory · Education
1
Entry
2
Some Prep
3
Medium
4
Considerable
5
Extensive
Previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is required for these occupations. For example, an electrician must have completed three or four years of apprenticeship or several years of vocat
Entry typically requires an associate degree in environmental science, geology, or related field, with coursework in chemistry, biology, and mathematics. Some positions accept relevant certificates or on-the-job training combined with high school education. Field experience through internships or entry-level environmental monitoring positions provides valuable hands-on training with sampling techniques and equipment operation.
Experienced hydrologic technicians often advance to senior technician roles with supervisory responsibilities or transition to full hydrologist positions with additional education. Career progression may lead to specialized roles in groundwater monitoring, environmental consulting, or water resource management. Some advance into research positions with government agencies or private environmental firms, while others pursue management roles overseeing water quality programs.
Source: O*NET 30.3 Education + Job Zones ↗ · CC BY 4.0
Live Job Feed — Active Postings
Live Hydrologic Technicians job postings populate here as the crawler feeds data. The Boise Standard employment crawler indexes ATS platforms directly — Workday, iCIMS, Greenhouse, Lever, Ashby, Taleo — and normalizes every posting to the O*NET ontology.

Postings appear within hours of going live on the source ATS. No aggregator lag. Direct from source.
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◈ SEMANTIC MANIFOLD — MULTI-SOURCE WORD FREQUENCY FINGERPRINT
Top 40 terms across five provenance layers: O*NET Tasks · O*NET Dimensions · DWAs · Wikipedia · Inference · Stop words removed · Deterministic · Constitutional Law III
tendency water environmental others management hydrologic quality equipment flow orientation difficult self hydrologists research collect samples public control groundwater detail
§ Full Frequency Ranking — 40 terms
TERM COUNT FREQ BAR SOURCE ATTRIBUTION
tendency 42 0.0396
onet dimensi 100%
water 32 0.0302
inference 44% wikipedia 31%
environmental 21 0.0198
inference 48% dwas 38%
others 14 0.0132
onet dimensi 71% dwas 21%
management 9 0.0085
dwas 33% inference 33%
hydrologic 8 0.0075
inference 50% onet tasks 25%
quality 7 0.0066
inference 57% onet tasks 14%
equipment 7 0.0066
inference 71% onet tasks 14%
flow 6 0.0057
inference 50% onet tasks 33%
orientation 6 0.0057
onet dimensi 100%
difficult 6 0.0057
onet dimensi 100%
self 6 0.0057
onet dimensi 100%
hydrologists 5 0.0047
onet tasks 40% inference 40%
research 5 0.0047
onet tasks 40% dwas 40%
collect 5 0.0047
inference 60% onet tasks 20%
samples 5 0.0047
inference 60% onet tasks 20%
public 5 0.0047
onet tasks 40% inference 40%
control 5 0.0047
onet dimensi 80% onet tasks 20%
groundwater 5 0.0047
inference 60% onet tasks 20%
detail 5 0.0047
onet dimensi 80% inference 20%
effectively 5 0.0047
onet dimensi 80% inference 20%
situations 5 0.0047
onet dimensi 80% dwas 20%
monitoring 5 0.0047
inference 100%
pollution 4 0.0038
onet tasks 75% inference 25%
bodies 4 0.0038
onet tasks 50% wikipedia 25%
technical 4 0.0038
inference 75% onet tasks 25%
conservation 4 0.0038
dwas 50% onet tasks 25%
soil 4 0.0038
inference 50% onet tasks 25%
properties 4 0.0038
onet tasks 75% inference 25%
computer 4 0.0038
inference 50% onet tasks 25%
BOISE STANDARD — FINE-TUNING RECORD · Hydrologic Technicians
19-4044.00 · 8 QA pairs · jsonl · O*NET 30.3 + BLS OEWS
What is the typical entry-level salary for hydrologic technicians?
According to BLS OEWS May 2025 data, entry-level hydrologic technicians earn approximately $44,950 annually, with median salaries reaching $64,790 and experienced professionals earning up to $100,480.
factual BLS OEWS May 2025
What is the national employment level for hydrologic technicians?
According to BLS OEWS May 2025, there are 2,840 hydrologic technicians employed nationally, representing a focused technical workforce in water resource management.
factual BLS OEWS May 2025
Which states offer the highest compensation for hydrologic technicians?
According to BLS OEWS May 2025 data, Texas leads with a median annual wage of $88,400, reflecting strong demand in water resource management across federal, state, and local government agencies.
market_intel BLS OEWS May 2025
What industries employ the majority of hydrologic technicians?
According to BLS OEWS May 2025, hydrologic technicians work primarily in Federal, State, and Local Government; Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services; and Mining, Quarrying, and Oil and Gas Extraction sectors.
market_intel BLS OEWS May 2025
What educational pathway should I follow to become a hydrologic technician?
Pursue an associate degree in environmental science, geology, or related field with coursework in chemistry, biology, and mathematics. This foundation enables competency in water quality analysis and field data collection required by employers.
career_advice Pass 1 Career Entry Requirements
What personal qualities make someone successful in hydrologic technician roles?
Strong attention to detail and dependability are critical, as water quality measurements require precise data collection. The role emphasizes cautiousness, integrity, and intellectual curiosity to ensure accurate environmental monitoring.
career_advice Pass 1 Job Characteristics
How do hydrologic technicians compare to hydrologists in career progression?
Hydrologic technicians serve as entry-level technical staff (associate degree) while hydrologists require bachelor's degrees and conduct advanced research. Technicians often progress to hydrologist or water resource specialist roles with additional education.
comparative ONet Related Occupations
What software proficiency is essential for hydrologic technician positions?
ESRI ArcGIS software (ArcInfo, ArcView) and GEO-SLOPE SEEP/W are core tools. Proficiency in spatial mapping and hydrologic modeling software is increasingly critical for modern data analysis in water resource management roles.
comparative Software Tools Bundle Data
◈ Boise Standard Employment Graph · 19-4044.00 · minted 2026-06-02T16:18:30Z · Sources: O*NET 30.3 (CC BY 4.0) · BLS OEWS May 2025 (Public Domain) · BS: https://boisestandard.org/employment/19-4044-hydrologic_technicians
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Boise Standard · The Standard of Information · boisestandard.org ↗
Provenance Window — Full Source Record · 19-4044.00 · Hydrologic Technicians 7 source blocks · click to expand
O*NET Identity onetonline.org ↗ · O*NET 30.3 · CC BY 4.0 · retrieved 2026-06-02
[('onet_soc_code', '19-4044.00'), ('soc_code', '19-4044'), ('title', 'Hydrologic Technicians'), ('vertical', 'science'), ('job_zone', '3'), ('job_zone_name', 'Job Zone Three: Medium Preparation Needed'), ('job_zone_exp', 'Previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is required for these occupations. For example, an electrician mus'), ('description', 'Collect and organize data concerning the distribution and circulation of ground and surface water, and data on its physical, chemical, and biological properties. Measure and report on flow rates and ground water levels, maintain field equipment, collect water samples, install and collect sampling eq'), ('bundle_version', '1'), ('built_at', '2026-06-02T16:18:30Z')]
O*NET Task Statements (16 tasks, 0 emerging) O*NET 30.3 Task Statements · Incumbent-reported · CC BY 4.0
[None] Analyze ecological data about the impact of pollution, erosion, floods, and other environmental problems on bodies of water.
  DWAs: Analyze environmental data.

[None] Answer technical questions from hydrologists, policymakers, or other customers developing water conservation plans.
  DWAs: Advise others about environmental management or conservation.

[None] Apply research findings to minimize the environmental impacts of pollution, waterborne diseases, erosion, or sedimentation.
  DWAs: Apply knowledge or research findings to address environmental problems.

[None] Assist in designing programs to ensure the proper sealing of abandoned wells.
  DWAs: Assist skilled construction or extraction personnel.

[None] Collect water and soil samples to test for physical, chemical, or biological properties, such as pH, oxygen level, temperature, and pollution.
  DWAs: Collect environmental data or samples.

[None] Develop computer models for hydrologic predictions.
  DWAs: Develop mathematical models of environmental conditions.

[None] Estimate the costs and benefits of municipal projects, such as hydroelectric power plants, irrigation systems, and wastewater treatment facilities.
  DWAs: Analyze costs and benefits of proposed designs or projects.

[None] Investigate complaints or conflicts related to the alteration of public waters by gathering information, recommending alternatives, or preparing legal documents.
  DWAs: Compile environmental or climatological data. | Advise others about environmental management or conservation.

[None] Investigate the properties, origins, or activities of glaciers, ice, snow, or permafrost.
  DWAs: Research hydrologic features or processes.

[None] Locate and deliver information or data as requested by customers, such as contractors, government entities, and members of the public.
  DWAs: Search files, databases or reference materials to obtain needed information. | Communicate with the public on environmental issues.

[None] Measure the properties of bodies of water, such as water levels, volume, and flow.
  DWAs: Measure the level or depth of water or other liquids.

[None] Perform quality control checks on data to be used by hydrologists.
  DWAs: Evaluate data quality.

[None] Prepare, install, maintain, or repair equipment used for hydrologic study, such as water level recorders, stream flow gauges, and water analyzers.
  DWAs: Clean equipment, parts, or tools to repair or maintain them in good working order. | Install gauges or controls.

[None] Provide real time data to emergency management and weather service personnel during flood events.
  DWAs: Advise others on management of emergencies or hazardous situations or materials.

[None] Write groundwater contamination reports on known, suspected, or potential hazardous waste sites.
  DWAs: Write reports or evaluations.

[None] Write materials for research publications, such as maps, tables, and reports, to disseminate findings.
  DWAs: Prepare graphics or other visual representations of information. | Write reports or evaluations.
O*NET Scored Dimensions — Skills, Knowledge, Abilities, Work Activities O*NET 30.3 · CC BY 4.0 · domain_source: Incumbent/Analyst/Machine Learning
--- WORK STYLES ---
  Dependability (imp:3.00) — A tendency to be reliable, responsible, and consistent in meeting work-related o
  Attention to Detail (imp:2.57) — A tendency to be detail-oriented, organized, and thorough in completing work.
  Dependability (imp:2.47) — A tendency to be reliable, responsible, and consistent in meeting work-related o
  Cautiousness (imp:2.03) — A tendency to be careful, deliberate, and risk-avoidant when making work-related
  Attention to Detail (imp:2.00) — A tendency to be detail-oriented, organized, and thorough in completing work.
  Intellectual Curiosity (imp:1.97) — A tendency to seek out and acquire new work-related knowledge and obtain a deep 
  Integrity (imp:1.89) — A tendency to be honest and ethical at work.
  Achievement Orientation (imp:1.58) — A tendency to establish and maintain personally challenging work-related goals, 
  Adaptability (imp:1.58) — A tendency to be open to and comfortable with change, new experiences, or ideas 
  Perseverance (imp:1.52) — A tendency to exhibit determination and resolve to perform or complete tasks in 
  Cooperation (imp:1.47) — A tendency to be pleasant, helpful, and willing to assist others at work.
  Initiative (imp:1.35) — A tendency to be proactive and take on extra responsibilities and tasks that may
  Innovation (imp:1.23) — A tendency to be inventive, to be imaginative, and to adopt new perspectives on 
  Tolerance for Ambiguity (imp:1.16) — A tendency to be comfortable with ambiguity and uncertainty at work.
  Cautiousness (imp:1.00) — A tendency to be careful, deliberate, and risk-avoidant when making work-related
  Self-Confidence (imp:0.99) — A tendency to believe in one's work-related capabilities and ability to control 
  Stress Tolerance (imp:0.93) — A tendency to cope and function effectively in stressful situations at work.
  Self-Control (imp:0.80) — A tendency to remain calm and composed and to manage emotions effectively in res
  Sincerity (imp:0.76) — A tendency to be genuine and sincere in interactions with others at work, withou
  Humility (imp:0.40) — A tendency to be modest and humble when interacting with others at work.
  Social Orientation (imp:0.25) — A tendency to seek out, enjoy, and be energized by social interaction at work.
  Empathy (imp:0.23) — A tendency to show concern for others and be sensitive to others' needs and feel
  Optimism (imp:0.20) — A tendency to exhibit a positive attitude and positive emotions at work, even un
  Leadership Orientation (imp:0.14) — A tendency to lead, take charge, offer opinions, and provide direction at work.
  Innovation () — A tendency to be inventive, to be imaginative, and to adopt new perspectives on 
  Achievement Orientation () — A tendency to establish and maintain personally challenging work-related goals, 
  Intellectual Curiosity () — A tendency to seek out and acquire new work-related knowledge and obtain a deep 
  Tolerance for Ambiguity () — A tendency to be comfortable with ambiguity and uncertainty at work.
  Initiative () — A tendency to be proactive and take on extra responsibilities and tasks that may
  Adaptability () — A tendency to be open to and comfortable with change, new experiences, or ideas 
  Self-Confidence () — A tendency to believe in one's work-related capabilities and ability to control 
  Perseverance () — A tendency to exhibit determination and resolve to perform or complete tasks in 
  Leadership Orientation () — A tendency to lead, take charge, offer opinions, and provide direction at work.
  Humility () — A tendency to be modest and humble when interacting with others at work.
  Sincerity () — A tendency to be genuine and sincere in interactions with others at work, withou
  Empathy () — A tendency to show concern for others and be sensitive to others' needs and feel
  Cooperation () — A tendency to be pleasant, helpful, and willing to assist others at work.
  Optimism () — A tendency to exhibit a positive attitude and positive emotions at work, even un
  Social Orientation () — A tendency to seek out, enjoy, and be energized by social interaction at work.
  Integrity () — A tendency to be honest and ethical at work.
  Stress Tolerance () — A tendency to cope and function effectively in stressful situations at work.
  Self-Control () — A tendency to remain calm and composed and to manage emotions effectively in res
BLS OEWS May 2025 — 2,840 employed nationally bls.gov/oes ↗ · Public Domain · US Government · retrieved 2026-06-02
--- NATIONAL WAGES ---
  total_employment : 2,840
  annual_median    : $64,790
  annual_pct10     : $44,950
  annual_pct25     : $52,040
  annual_pct75     : $84,680
  annual_pct90     : $100,480
  annual_mean      : $69,530
  hourly_median    : $31.15

--- GEOGRAPHIC DISPERSION ---
  highest_state    : Texas ($88,400)
  lowest_state     : Tennessee ($30,780)
  dispersion_ratio : 2.872x

--- TOP STATES BY WAGE (29 total) ---
  Federal, State, and Local Government, excluding State and Local Government Schools and Hospitals and the U.S. Postal Service (OEWS Designation) emp:    1,870  median: $  69,530
  Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services emp:      330  median: $  52,870
  Mining, Quarrying, and Oil and Gas Extraction emp:      190  median: $ 102,150
  Arts, Entertainment, and Recreation      emp:      110  median: $  61,820
  Utilities                                emp:      100  median: $  79,170
  Educational Services                     emp:       50  median: $  49,500

--- TOP INDUSTRIES BY EMPLOYMENT (6 total) ---
  Federal, State, and Local Government, excluding State and Local Government Schools and Hospitals and the U.S. Postal Service (OEWS Designation) emp:    1,870  median: $  69,530
  Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services emp:      330  median: $  52,870
  Mining, Quarrying, and Oil and Gas Extraction emp:      190  median: $ 102,150
  Arts, Entertainment, and Recreation      emp:      110  median: $  61,820
  Utilities                                emp:      100  median: $  79,170
  Educational Services                     emp:       50  median: $  49,500
Wikipedia — no exact match (0 words) N/A ↗ · CC BY-SA 4.0
exact_match_status : no_exact_match
matched_title      : N/A
match_score        : 0.0000
wikidata_qid       : N/A
word_count         : 0
wikipedia_url      : N/A
license            : CC BY-SA 4.0
fetched_at         : 2026-06-02T20:55:16.140175Z

--- SEMANTIC NEIGHBORS (5) ---

  Title: Bridge scour (similarity: 0.1176)
  URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bridge_scour
  QID: Q4966469
  Extract: Bridge scour is the removal of sediment such as sand and gravel from around bridge abutments or piers. Hydrodynamic scour, caused by fast flowing water, can carve out scour holes, compromising the integrity of a structure.

  Title: SaltMod (similarity: 0.0690)
  URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/SaltMod
  QID: Q7405792
  Extract: SaltMod is computer program for the prediction of the salinity of soil moisture, groundwater and drainage water, the depth of the watertable, and the drain discharge (hydrology) in irrigated agricultural lands, using different (geo)hydrologic conditions, varying water management options, including t

  Title: Ancient Art Archive (similarity: 0.2439)
  URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ancient_Art_Archive
  QID: Q125498698
  Extract: The Ancient Art Archive (AAA) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the preservation, visual documentation, and sharing of prehistoric works of art, particularly cave painting and petroglyphs, around the globe. The organization was founded in 2016 by photographer Stephen Alvarez following an assi

  Title: Total dissolved solids (similarity: 0.2727)
  URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Total_dissolved_solids
  QID: Q2466917
  Extract: Total dissolved solids (TDS) is a measure of the dissolved combined content of all inorganic and organic substances present in a liquid in molecular, ionized, or micro-granular suspended form. TDS are often measured in parts per million (ppm). TDS in water can be measured using a digital meter.

  Title: Stream gauge (similarity: 0.1765)
  URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stream_gauge
  QID: Q505774
  Extract: A stream gauge, streamgage or stream gauging station is a location used by hydrologists or environmental scientists to monitor and test terrestrial bodies of water. Hydrometric measurements of water level surface elevation ("stage") and/or volumetric discharge (flow) are generally taken and observat
Claude Inference — claude-sonnet-4-20250514 · confidence:high · $0.0402 inferred_at: 2026-06-03T16:12:15 UTC · Boise Standard inference pipeline v1.0
model_pass1          : claude-sonnet-4-20250514
model_pass2          : claude-haiku-4-5-20251001
inference_confidence : high
confidence_notes     : Strong occupational definition with detailed task descriptions and comprehensive related occupation mappings. Wage data and employment statistics from BLS provide reliable market intelligence foundation.
inferred_at          : 2026-06-03T16:12:15.769735+00:00
tokens_input         : 3,515
tokens_output        : 4,018
cost_usd             : $0.040242
wikipedia_used       : False
wikipedia_title      : None
wikipedia_note       : No exact Wikipedia match found for this specific technician role. Related technical concepts like water quality measurement and environmental monitoring exist but not this specific occupation.

--- PROSE FIELDS ---

ROLE SUMMARY:
Hydrologic Technicians collect and analyze data about water distribution, circulation, and quality in ground and surface water systems. They conduct field measurements of flow rates and groundwater levels, collect water and soil samples for laboratory analysis, and maintain specialized monitoring equipment. These technical professionals support hydrologists and environmental scientists in water resource management and environmental protection efforts.

DAY IN THE LIFE:
A typical day involves traveling to field sites to collect water and soil samples, testing for physical, chemical, and biological properties like pH and oxygen levels. They measure stream flow rates and groundwater levels using specialized equipment, maintaining and calibrating instruments throughout the day. Much of their work involves analyzing ecological data about pollution impacts, floods, and erosion effects on water bodies using GIS software and computer modeling tools. They also respond to technical questions from hydrologists and policymakers developing water conservation plans, and investigate complaints related to public water alterations.

WHO THRIVES:
Individuals who excel in this role demonstrate strong attention to detail and dependability, as water quality measurements require precise data collection and consistent monitoring protocols. They possess analytical thinking skills to interpret complex environmental data and develop computer models for hydrologic predictions. Successful technicians enjoy outdoor fieldwork combined with laboratory analysis, and can work independently while following strict safety and sampling procedures. They communicate effectively with diverse stakeholders including government officials, contractors, and the public about environmental water issues.

CAREER ENTRY:
Entry typically requires an associate degree in environmental science, geology, or related field, with coursework in chemistry, biology, and mathematics. Some positions accept relevant certificates or on-the-job training combined with high school education. Field experience through internships or entry-level environmental monitoring positions provides valuable hands-on training with sampling techniques and equipment operation.

CAREER TRAJECTORY:
Experienced hydrologic technicians often advance to senior technician roles with supervisory responsibilities or transition to full hydrologist positions with additional education. Career progression may lead to specialized roles in groundwater monitoring, environmental consulting, or water resource management. Some advance into research positions with government agencies or private environmental firms, while others pursue management roles overseeing water quality programs.

MARKET INTELLIGENCE:
According to BLS OEWS May 2025 data, hydrologic technicians earn a median annual salary of $64,790, with entry-level positions starting around $44,950 and experienced professionals earning up to $100,480. Employment totals 2,840 nationally, with significant geographic variation - Texas offers the highest wages at $88,400 while Tennessee shows the lowest at $30,780, representing a 2.87x ratio. The majority (66%) work in government agencies, with additional opportunities in professional services and extractive industries. Job growth is tied to increasing environmental regulations and climate change adaptation needs.

AUTOMATION OUTLOOK:
The role shows moderate automation resistance due to the physical nature of field sampling and equipment maintenance requirements. While data analysis and modeling tasks may become more automated through advanced software, the core activities of collecting water samples, measuring flow rates, and maintaining field equipment require human judgment and manual dexterity that cannot be easily replaced by technology.

--- REASONED EDGES ---
  [career_pathway] Hydrologists (19-2043.00) — confidence:high
    reasoning: Natural advancement path from technician to professional hydrologist level with additional education and experience.
    data: Related occupation primary-short designation
    data: Similar water resource focus
    data: Progressive technical responsibility
  [skill_overlap] Geological Technicians, Except Hydrologic Technicians (19-4043.00) — confidence:high
    reasoning: Both roles involve field data collection, sample analysis, and technical support in earth sciences with similar Job Zone 3 preparation.
    data: Related occupation primary-short
    data: Shared technical skills
    data: Similar educational requirements
  [task_similarity] Environmental Science and Protection Technicians, Including Health (19-4042.00) — confidence:high
    reasoning: Both collect environmental samples and analyze data about pollution impacts and environmental problems.
    data: Related occupation primary-long
    data: Shared sample collection activities
    data: Environmental data analysis overlap
  [riasec_cluster] Environmental Engineering Technologists and Technicians (17-3025.00) — confidence:medium
    reasoning: Both show strong Realistic and Conventional RIASEC profiles with technical problem-solving in environmental contexts.
    data: Related occupation designation
    data: Similar technical orientation
    data: Environmental focus overlap
  [knowledge_overlap] Water Resource Specialists (11-9121.02) — confidence:high
    reasoning: Shared expertise in water systems management and conservation planning activities.
    data: Related occupation primary-short
    data: Water resource management focus
    data: Conservation planning involvement

--- NORMALIZER SIGNALS ---
  match_keywords   : ['hydrologic', 'water quality', 'groundwater monitoring', 'stream flow', 'water sampling', 'hydrology', 'environmental monitoring', 'water testing']
  exclude_keywords : ['engineer', 'scientist', 'manager', 'supervisor', 'specialist']
  title_patterns   : ['Hydrologic Technician', 'Water Quality Technician', 'Groundwater Technician', 'Hydrology Tech', 'Water Monitoring Tech']
  common_variations: ['Field Technician', 'GIS Technician', 'Groundwater Monitoring Technician', 'Hydrographer', 'Hydrography Technician', 'Hydrologic Aid', 'Water Quality Analyst', 'Environmental Field Tech']
Semantic Manifold — 40 terms · 5 provenance layers employment_word_extractor.py · sources: onet_tasks | onet_dimensions | dwas | wikipedia | inference · Constitutional Law III
total_terms    : 40
top_words      : ['tendency', 'water', 'environmental', 'others', 'management', 'hydrologic', 'quality', 'equipment', 'flow', 'orientation', 'difficult', 'self', 'hydrologists', 'research', 'collect', 'samples', 'public', 'control', 'groundwater', 'detail']
source_layers  : onet_tasks | onet_dimensions | dwas | wikipedia | inference

TERM                    COUNT     FREQ  DOMINANT SOURCE      SOURCE BREAKDOWN
──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
tendency                   42  0.03959  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
water                      32  0.03016  inference            inference:44%  wikipedia:31%  onet_tasks:22%
environmental              21  0.01979  inference            inference:48%  dwas:38%  onet_tasks:10%
others                     14  0.01320  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:71%  dwas:21%  inference:7%
management                  9  0.00848  dwas                 dwas:33%  inference:33%  wikipedia:22%
hydrologic                  8  0.00754  inference            inference:50%  onet_tasks:25%  dwas:12%
quality                     7  0.00660  inference            inference:57%  onet_tasks:14%  dwas:14%
equipment                   7  0.00660  inference            inference:71%  onet_tasks:14%  dwas:14%
flow                        6  0.00566  inference            inference:50%  onet_tasks:33%  wikipedia:17%
orientation                 6  0.00566  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
difficult                   6  0.00566  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
self                        6  0.00566  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
hydrologists                5  0.00471  onet_tasks           onet_tasks:40%  inference:40%  wikipedia:20%
research                    5  0.00471  onet_tasks           onet_tasks:40%  dwas:40%  inference:20%
collect                     5  0.00471  inference            inference:60%  onet_tasks:20%  dwas:20%
samples                     5  0.00471  inference            inference:60%  onet_tasks:20%  dwas:20%
public                      5  0.00471  onet_tasks           onet_tasks:40%  inference:40%  dwas:20%
control                     5  0.00471  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:80%  onet_tasks:20%
groundwater                 5  0.00471  inference            inference:60%  onet_tasks:20%  wikipedia:20%
detail                      5  0.00471  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:80%  inference:20%
effectively                 5  0.00471  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:80%  inference:20%
situations                  5  0.00471  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:80%  dwas:20%
monitoring                  5  0.00471  inference            inference:100%
pollution                   4  0.00377  onet_tasks           onet_tasks:75%  inference:25%
bodies                      4  0.00377  onet_tasks           onet_tasks:50%  wikipedia:25%  inference:25%
technical                   4  0.00377  inference            inference:75%  onet_tasks:25%
conservation                4  0.00377  dwas                 dwas:50%  onet_tasks:25%  inference:25%
soil                        4  0.00377  inference            inference:50%  onet_tasks:25%  wikipedia:25%
properties                  4  0.00377  onet_tasks           onet_tasks:75%  inference:25%
computer                    4  0.00377  inference            inference:50%  onet_tasks:25%  wikipedia:25%
irrigation                  4  0.00377  wikipedia            wikipedia:75%  onet_tasks:25%
government                  4  0.00377  inference            inference:75%  onet_tasks:25%
measure                     4  0.00377  onet_tasks           onet_tasks:25%  dwas:25%  wikipedia:25%
stream                      4  0.00377  wikipedia            wikipedia:50%  onet_tasks:25%  inference:25%
write                       4  0.00377  onet_tasks           onet_tasks:50%  dwas:50%
reports                     4  0.00377  onet_tasks           onet_tasks:50%  dwas:50%
meeting                     4  0.00377  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
attention                   4  0.00377  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:50%  wikipedia:25%  inference:25%
seek                        4  0.00377  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
goals                       4  0.00377  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
◈ Boise Standard Employment Graph · 19-4044.00 · built 2026-06-02 · Sources declared above are authoritative originals. This page synthesizes but does not replace them. Every claim traceable. Full provenance. Constitutional Law I.
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