Hydrologist (Hydroloog)
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A hydrologist is a researcher or scientist who specializes in hydrology. Hydrology refers to all water and the cycle of water on earth. The field of hydrology has similarities with meteorology, but is not the same because a hydrologist is not concerned with the atmosphere or the climate, but with water. Think, for example, of precipitation measurements, soil moisture measurements and groundwater flows. Another name for hydrology is sometimes also called water management. In short, we can say that a hydrologist studies the earth's water household. Hydrology therefore means the science of water. What exactly a hydrologist does and examines can differ per hydrologist or company, but always has to do with water. Consider, for example, the study of water quality or the consequences of the extraction of water from the soil. In addition, a hydrologist may be involved in the construction of new dikes or the relocation of existing waterways. The field of a hydrologist can therefore be called very broad, but always has to do with water. As a hydrologist, various specializations are possible because water management can be called a broad field. In general, it is true that a hydrologist is responsible for research work and consultancy work. In a general sense, a hydrologist is also responsible for improving water systems. For example, a hydrologist can conduct research within a certain nature reserve to investigate how water systems can best be adapted to raise the groundwater level. In that case, it may be important, for example, to investigate whether ditches supply or drain sufficient water. Another example is the construction or modification of existing weirs or culverts in ditches.
A hydrologist is therefore a scientist who studies the water management of the earth. This type of research is important for the government and other organizations, such as water boards, for various reasons. Think, for example, of farmers who cannot use flooding in their fields, or of residential areas that do not want to have to deal with flooding. But also think of studies with regard to drinking water. It is therefore perfectly conceivable that a hydrologist will work together with various other specialists, such as farmers, arable farmers, planners and foresters, who all have to deal with water in different ways. In many cases, a hydrologist can also be classified as a field worker because studying hydrology cannot only be done in the office or within a research institution. Hydrology has similarities with meteorology, but the disciplines differ in terms of content. In addition to conducting field research, a hydrologist is also responsible for conducting laboratory research. In short, the work comes down to studying water and the role of water in the ecosystem.
ACTIVITIES HYDROLOGIST
Other activities that may belong to a hydrologist are helping to design and/or develop large hydraulic engineering projects. A good example of this are the Delta Works and the Afsluitdijk. The Delta Works and the Afsluitdijk are large hydraulic structures that have been built to protect the population against flooding. These hydraulic structures have an influence on nature and water because free flow is no longer possible. The Delta Works have no obstacle in terms of water flows, but this is only the case because research has shown in the past that closing the Delta Works would have negative consequences for nature and water. Initially, there were plans to completely close the Delta Works. A hydrologist can therefore also work within hydraulic engineering and have to deal with civil engineers.
WHAT DOES A HYDROLOGIST DO:
TRAINING TO BECOME A HYDROLOGIST
If you aspire to a career as a hydrologist, it is best to choose the university study earth sciences. Within the study earth sciences it is possible to choose the specialization hydrology, hydrology and water quality, municipal water and infrastructure, water management and water science and engineering. The specialization should generally be seen as a master's degree within the study of earth sciences. In addition, there are training opportunities at HBO level, such as the Hbo programme land and water management (BSc). Some professions that have common ground with the profession of hydrologist are the profession's climatologist, meteorologist and environmentalist. Which training and/or study will best suit a hydrologist is also personal and depends on the type of work that the hydrologist wants to perform. In all cases, the chemistry and physics courses can be regarded as important subjects. Accounting is also important as an entrepreneur.
COMPANIES WHERE A HYDROLOGIST CAN BE EMPLOYED
A hydrologist can work for various research institutions, consultancies, nature organizations, water boards and engineering firms. In addition, it is possible that a hydrologist works as a consultant for various clients. It is also conceivable that a hydrologist works as a civil servant for a ministry or municipality. Where exactly a hydrologist will work usually depends on the chosen specialization as a hydrologist.
COMPETENCES HYDROLOGIST
As a hydrologist, it is important that you are able to carry out scientific studies by applying measurements and calculations. In addition, as a hydrologist, you have a large advisory role and you will therefore have to be well-versed in communication. Result-oriented work is very important within this profession. Because a hydrologist will in many cases be part of projects, consultation in a good way can also be seen as an important competence. Another important competence is persuasiveness because you must be able to argue statements and/or findings. Generally important words for a hydrologist are inspiration, motivation, creativity, passion, energy, solutions and innovation.
LABOUR MARKET PERSPECTIVE AND CAREER OPPORTUNITIES AS A HYDROLOGIST
The labour market perspective as a well-trained hydrologist is good because water is important all over the world and there is a high demand for specialists. A graduate hydrologist will usually find a job quickly. The career opportunities as a hydrologist will be highly dependent on your own competencies and level of education, but in general, you will have sufficient career opportunities as a well-trained hydrologist. Consider, for example, a management position as a project leader or a PhD if you have a university degree.
TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT AND SALARY HYDROLOGIST
There are no specific employment conditions for the profession of hydrologist because you can be active for different types of employers in different sectors. A hydrologist will generally earn a salary between 2000 and 4500 euros gross per month depending on age, education and responsibilities.
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