Hydrogeologist
Hydrogeologists study the distribution, flow and quality of water underground (as opposed to hydrologists who are primarily concerned with surface water). This involves:
The work of a hydrogeologist ultimately leads to better management of natural resources or better protection of the groundwater.
The work of a hydrogeologist can vary considerably according to the sector, employer and area of specialism, but general work activities may include:
Hydrogeologists working for charities and non-governmental organisations (NGOs) overseas may be involved in:
A good first degree in geology, environmental science, 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/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 which includes groundwater. Some employers will recruit graduates from relevant degree disciplines and support them through Masters study, either full or part time, while employed with them. Relevant courses offered at MSc level include:
There are other Masters courses available that include an element of groundwater training. Search Find a Masters for details.
Due to the numerical nature of the course, some MSc providers may require AS or A-level mathematics (or an equivalent through your degree course or through appropriate tuition) as well as a relevant degree.
Some MSc students receive funding through an industrial sponsor or a university scholarship. Others fund their own study. Contact individual institutions for entry requirements and details of funding opportunities available.
Candidates will need to show evidence of the following:
A driving licence is often a requirement.
Relevant work experience is a major advantage. This can be summer work, industry projects or voluntary activities. Be prepared to gain experience in a range of geological or environmental organisations, for example the Environment Agency (EA) , as opportunities for work experience purely in hydrogeology can be hard to find.
For more information, see work experience and internships and search courses and research.
The larger engineering and environmental consultancies run graduate training programmes that help graduates develop the wider skills necessary for a career as a hydrogeologist (degree/Masters courses cover the technical speciality).
Most organisations will provide induction training. This is likely to involve some time shadowing more experienced colleagues. Some organisations support new hydrogeologists through a relevant MSc if they do not already possess one.
On-the-job training and external courses are usually provided throughout your career in order to keep abreast of new technologies and developments within the industry. They can also support the development of other skills such as project management, technical report writing, contract management, managing risk, health and safety and customer care.
Membership of a professional body such the Chartered Institution of Water and Environmental Management (CIWEM) , the International Association of Hydrogeologists (IAH) or the Geological Society is useful in terms of training, networking and continuing professional development (CPD) opportunities. Attending conferences is another good way to keep up to date with developments in the industry and to network with colleagues.
Many employers will encourage you to become chartered with a relevant professional body. You will need to show that you regularly undertake a range of CPD activities and have relevant experience at a specific level.
Many hydrogeologists choose to become chartered with a relevant professional body, most commonly the Chartered Institution of Water and Environmental Management (CIWEM) . Those with a geology degree may choose to follow the Geological Society route to chartership.
Obtaining chartered status demonstrates that you have a good level of experience and professionalism, as well as a commitment to the profession. You will need to show that you regularly undertake a range of continuing professional development (CPD) activities and have relevant experience at a specific level. Check with the relevant professional body for a full list of requirements.
There are opportunities for a varied career within hydrogeology, both in the UK and overseas. Career progression is dependent on skills and ability, but can be fast within groundwater specialisms. It is possible to progress into team leader positions that involve making decisions about planning and use of resources, as well as managing people.
Opportunity for technical progression is significant and leads to a specialist role, sharing knowledge and experience of a specific aspect of geoscience with colleagues. Specialisms can include:
A small number of opportunities also exist in teaching and research in higher education institutions.
Some hydrogeologists move careers into environmental policy development.
Hydrogeology is a young science and growth is likely in some new areas. These include the exploitation of groundwater as a thermal regulator (ground source heating and cooling), the interaction of groundwater and surface water and its role in flooding, and the ecology of groundwater and hydroecology. Concerns about the impact of climate change on water availability in the UK and increased reliance on groundwater are likely to ensure that the need for hydrogeologists will continue.
Hydrogeologists are employed in a range of sectors. Typical employers include:
Search websites of individual employers for details of vacancies. The UK Groundwater Forum has a list of organisations that employ hydrogeologists in the UK.
Recruitment agencies often handle vacancies. The Recruitment and Employment Confederation (REC) website has a searchable online directory of recruitment consultancies.
Speculative applications can be effective. Business directories are also useful for sourcing potential employers.
Get tips on job hunting, CVs and covering letters and interviews.
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