Hydrologist

Hydrologists study and manage Hawaiʻi’s precious water resources by analyzing the movement, distribution, and quality of water in natural environments such as streams, aquifers, and watersheds. They play a vital role in understanding groundwater recharge, streamflow, and the impacts of climate change, urban development, and land use on water availability and quality. Hydrologists inform water resource planning, drought management, flood control, and ecosystem protection efforts across the islands.

Their work involves field data collection, computer modeling, and collaboration with agencies, communities, and planners to sustain Hawaiʻi’s fragile hydrological systems and support resilient water infrastructure.

Education & Training

This position typically requires:

  • A Bachelor’s degree in Hydrology, Geology, Environmental Science, or Civil Engineering.

  • Many hydrologists pursue a Master’s degree or higher for advanced research, modeling, and leadership roles.

  • Coursework or training in Geographic Information Systems (GIS), hydrological modeling software, and data analysis is essential.

  • Certifications such as the Certified Professional Hydrologist (CPH) offered by the American Institute of Hydrology can enhance credentials.

In Hawaiʻi, you can study at:

  • University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa

    • Bachelor’s and Master’s programs in Geology and Environmental Science, with hydrology and water resources focus areas.

    • Research opportunities through the Water Resources Research Center (WRRC).

    • Website: https://manoa.hawaii.edu

    University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo

    • Environmental Science degree programs including hydrology-related coursework and fieldwork.

    • Website: https://hilo.hawaii.edu

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

Knowledge of:

  • Hydrologic cycle and processes including groundwater and surface water flow, infiltration, and evapotranspiration,

  • Watershed management and water resource planning,

  • Hydrologic and hydraulic modeling software (e.g., SWAT, HEC-RAS, MODFLOW),

  • Geospatial analysis using GIS,

  • Water quality and sediment transport principles,

  • Federal and state water resource regulations and permitting,

  • Climate change impacts on water resources.

Skill in:

  • Collecting, analyzing, and interpreting hydrological data,

  • Designing and implementing field studies including stream gauging and groundwater monitoring,

  • Using computer models to simulate water flow and quality scenarios,

  • Communicating technical findings clearly to stakeholders, decision-makers, and community groups,

  • Collaborating with multidisciplinary teams on water resource projects.

Ability to:

  • Assess water availability and predict impacts of development and climate variability,

  • Work effectively in both field and office settings, often in remote or rugged environments,

  • Manage multiple projects and data sources efficiently,

  • Build partnerships with community members, Native Hawaiian organizations, and government agencies,

  • Adapt hydrological models to island-specific conditions and cultural considerations.

Scholarships & Opportunities

  • Hawaiʻi Water Environment Association (HWEA) Scholarships supporting water sector education.
    Website: https://hwea.org

  • University of Hawaiʻi Graduate Fellowships for environmental science and geology students.
    Website: https://manoa.hawaii.edu

  • Hawaiʻi Community Foundation Scholarships for STEM and environmental fields.
    Website: https://www.hawaiicommunityfoundation.org

  • Internships and research opportunities through UH Water Resources Research Center and local agencies (e.g., Commission on Water Resource Management).