Become a Leader in Water Science: Supervisory Hydrologic Technician at USGS
The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) is currently recruiting for a Supervisory Hydrologic Technician to work within the Colorado Water Science Center. This is a unique opportunity for experienced professionals to combine field expertise with administrative leadership to influence critical water research in the Rocky Mountain region.
Job Responsibilities
As a supervisor, you will be the backbone of field operations. Your core responsibilities include:
- Team Supervision: Assigning tasks, mentoring staff, and fostering a safe, collaborative work environment.
- Data Integrity: Managing high-quality data collection using Aquarius Time-Series systems.
- Field Operations: Planning complex projects, ensuring team safety in rugged terrains, and overseeing station maintenance.
- Partnership Management: Liaising with Tribal, State, and local entities to support wide-reaching water resource programs.
Requirements
To be eligible, applicants must:
- Provide proof of U.S. citizenship.
- Have one year of specialized experience at the GS-11 level.
- Hold a valid driver's license.
- Demonstrate the ability to handle strenuous physical labor in treacherous terrain.
Comparison of Key Expectations
| Feature | Expectation |
|---|---|
| Experience Level | GS-12 (Min. 1 year at GS-11 level) |
| Physicality | High (Climbing, lifting, traversing water) |
| Supervision | Required (Personnel & Projects) |
| Residency | Lakewood, CO |
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary of $99,800 to $129,742 annually. In addition to salary, employees receive the robust federal benefits package, including comprehensive healthcare, generous retirement options, and professional development programs.
Application Tips
- Keep it Concise: Your resume must be exactly two pages or less.
- Quantify: Be specific about your experience with hydrologic computations and staff supervision.
- Documents: Double-check that your SF-50 and performance appraisals are included if applicable.
If you are ready to take the next step in your career with the USGS, we encourage you to review the full details and apply before August 26, 2026. This is a pivotal role that balances scientific rigor with leadership responsibility.
Why This Supervisory Hydrologic Technician Job Matters
Lead vital water resource initiatives with the USGS in Colorado—apply your expertise in hydrologic data management to support critical environmental science.
Supervisory Hydrologic Technician Job Overview
The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) at the Colorado Water Science Center is seeking a dedicated Supervisory Hydrologic Technician to join our team in Lakewood, CO. This leadership role is pivotal in managing hydrologic networks, supervising field operations, and ensuring the technical accuracy of essential water data. The successful candidate will guide a team of technicians, oversee field projects, and collaborate with diverse stakeholders to advance our mission of predicting Earth-system interactions.
Requirements for Supervisory Hydrologic Technician
- Must be a U.S. citizen.
- Must possess a valid driver's license.
- Ability to pass a background investigation.
- Selective Service registration if born after 12-31-1959.
- Willingness to participate in direct deposit and E-Verify.
- Ability to perform strenuous physical labor in outdoor, often rugged, environments.
- Must maintain physical fitness standards.
- One year of specialized experience at the GS-11 level or equivalent.
Preferred Qualifications for Supervisory Hydrologic Technician
- Proven experience in team leadership and performance management.
- Expertise in data analysis using Aquarius Time-Series or similar platforms.
- Demonstrated ability to coordinate large-scale hydrologic network projects.
- Strong communication skills for building partnerships with State and Federal stakeholders.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Federal health insurance plans
- ✓Comprehensive retirement programs
- ✓Paid vacation and sick leave
- ✓Flexible work arrangements including telework options
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and training
💡 How to Apply Supervisory Hydrologic Technician Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Supervisory Hydrologic Technician Job
- Prepare a resume not exceeding two pages, following specific font and margin requirements.
- Gather your most recent performance appraisal and list of awards from the last five years.
- Visit the official application portal to preview the questionnaire.
- Submit your complete application package before the August 26, 2026, deadline.
- Monitor your status through the online portal for updates.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume explicitly details your specialized experience in month-year format.
- Do not exceed the two-page limit; extra pages will not be reviewed.
- Be sure to state 'full-time' or include the specific number of hours worked per week.
- Clearly address how your background meets the specialized experience criteria for GS-12.
- Upload your most recent SF-50 if you are a current or former federal employee.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the salary range for this position?
The salary for this GS-12 position ranges from $99,800 to $129,742 per year.
Is telework available?
Yes, this position is eligible for telework, though specific schedules are subject to agency policy and operational needs.
What are the physical requirements?
The role requires significant physical activity, including hiking in rugged terrain, working near fast-moving water, and lifting items weighing 50 pounds or more.
Job from Geological Survey
The Department of the Interior and the USGS serve as the nation’s premier science agency. By monitoring Earth-system interactions, the USGS provides actionable data that informs decisions regarding natural hazards, climate change, and environmental health. Working here means joining a team dedicated to preserving natural resources for future generations.