Launch Your Career in Environmental Science: The Hydrologic Technician Role
Are you passionate about the environment, hydrology, and protecting natural resources? The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), a bureau within the Department of the Interior, is currently hiring motivated individuals for the role of Hydrologic Technician. This role is a vital component of the agency's mission to analyze, predict, and monitor Earth-system interactions.
About the U.S. Geological Survey
The USGS serves as the nation's primary source of scientific information regarding natural hazards, natural resources, and the health of our ecosystems. By providing actionable data to decision-makers, the USGS plays a critical role in addressing climate change, land-use evolution, and environmental health. Joining the USGS means becoming part of a prestigious team dedicated to the stewardship of our nation's landscapes and waterways.
Job Responsibilities
Hydrologic Technicians serve as the backbone of field operations. Your day-to-day work will be diverse and challenging, requiring both technical expertise and physical stamina. Key responsibilities include:
- Surface Water Monitoring: Measuring stage and discharge in various bodies of water using specialized equipment.
- Groundwater Assessment: Measuring water levels and discharge in wells and springs.
- Water Quality Testing: Conducting field measurements such as dissolved oxygen, pH, temperature, and specific conductance.
- Equipment Maintenance: Installing and calibrating sensing, recording, and communication instruments.
- Data Management: Analyzing field findings and inputting them into centralized databases to ensure data integrity for regional and national reports.
Requirements and Qualifications
To qualify for the GS-08 level, you must demonstrate a mix of experience and/or education.
| Requirement Category | Description |
|---|---|
| Specialized Experience | 1 year equivalent to GS-07 in technical or science-based field work. |
| Education Substitute | 2 years of graduate-level education in science, engineering, or industrial technology. |
| Physical Fitness | Must be able to lift 50+ lbs and work in potentially hazardous field environments. |
| Residency | Must reside within 50-75 miles of the specific field unit duty station. |
Salary and Benefits
The position offers a competitive salary range of $55,882 to $90,814 per year. As a federal employee, you will also have access to a robust benefits package, including:
- Comprehensive health, vision, and dental insurance options.
- Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- Generous annual and sick leave accrual.
- Flexible telework opportunities for non-field tasks.
Application Tips
Because this hiring process is highly localized, attention to detail is paramount. First, ensure your resume is strictly limited to two pages. Second, provide clear, verifiable proof of your current residency within the hiring radius. Finally, ensure your documentation for specialized experience clearly states the number of hours worked per week.
The Hydrologic Technician role is an excellent opportunity for those looking to combine their technical skills with a love for the outdoors. If you meet the residency requirements and have the necessary scientific background, apply today to start a meaningful career with the USGS.
Why This Ful - Hydrologic Technician Job Matters
Turn your passion for the outdoors into a career by monitoring the vital waterways of the nation with the U.S. Geological Survey.
Ful - Hydrologic Technician Job Overview
The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) is seeking dedicated individuals to join our team as Hydrologic Technicians. In this role, you will be at the forefront of environmental science, collecting essential data on surface water, groundwater, and water quality to support critical decision-making for natural resource management. This is a unique opportunity to work in various field environments across the United States, utilizing advanced technology to monitor Earth-system interactions and ensure the accuracy of hydrologic data.
Requirements for Ful - Hydrologic Technician
- U.S. Citizenship.
- Ability to pass a background investigation.
- Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license.
- Must reside within the specified commuting vicinity of the chosen duty station.
- Physical fitness standard: Work involves heavy lifting (50+ lbs), navigating treacherous terrain, and potential work in extreme weather.
- Selective Service registration for males born after 12-31-59.
- Ability to obtain and maintain Motorboat Operator Certification if required by the duty location.
- Two-page maximum resume adherence.
Preferred Qualifications for Ful - Hydrologic Technician
- Specialized experience equivalent to GS-07 in hydrology, engineering, or physical science.
- Completion of at least 2 years of progressively higher-level graduate education in a relevant field.
- Proven experience with hydrologic data collection protocols and instrumentation.
- Demonstrated ability to perform routine repairs on water-quality equipment.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive Federal Salary
- ✓Comprehensive Health Insurance
- ✓Federal Retirement System Participation
- ✓Paid Holidays and Vacation Time
- ✓Opportunities for Telework (with supervisor approval)
- ✓Professional Development and Training
💡 How to Apply Ful - Hydrologic Technician Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Ful - Hydrologic Technician Job
- Review the list of duty locations to ensure you reside within the required commuting vicinity.
- Create or update your account on USAJOBS.
- Prepare a resume that is strictly limited to two single-sided pages, including hours worked per week for each role.
- Gather proof of residence (e.g., utility bill, lease agreement) and academic transcripts if applicable.
- Submit your complete application package via the USAJOBS portal before the closing date.
- Monitor your application status through your USAJOBS account.
💡 General Tips
- Strictly follow the two-page resume limit; extra pages will not be reviewed.
- Clearly distinguish between full-time and part-time hours in your work history.
- Ensure your proof of residence documentation clearly maps to your address.
- Double-check your transcripts to ensure they include your GPA and degree conferral date.
- Submit early to avoid technical issues as the closing date approaches.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the commuting area requirement?
Because this is a Field Unit Local Hiring Authority position, you must live within a defined radius (typically 50-75 miles depending on the location) of the specific duty station you are applying for. Proof of residency is mandatory.
Can I submit a resume longer than two pages?
No. The agency is very strict about the two-page limit; any resume exceeding this length will not be reviewed.
Is this position eligible for remote work?
The position requires significant field work for data collection, but some tasks are suitable for telework with supervisor approval.
What is the promotion potential?
While starting at GS-08, this position has a full performance potential of GS-11, subject to performance and business needs.
Are there physical examinations involved?
Yes, due to the nature of the field work, candidates must be able to perform physically demanding tasks and may undergo a physical evaluation.