Become a Leader in Water Science: Supervisory Hydrologic Technician at USGS

Are you a dedicated professional with a passion for water resources and a talent for leadership? The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) is searching for a dynamic individual to join the Wyoming-Montana Water Science Center as a Supervisory Hydrologic Technician in Billings, Montana. This role offers the perfect blend of field-based scientific research and high-level management, putting you at the forefront of the agency’s commitment to environmental stewardship.

Job Responsibilities

As the Field Office Chief, your responsibilities will be diverse and highly impactful:

Personnel Leadership: You will manage a team of hydrologic technicians, overseeing performance reviews, training, and the delegation of daily tasks.
Strategic Oversight: Plan and execute hydrologic monitoring programs, including the maintenance of water-quality and groundwater stations.
Technical Compliance: Ensure all data collection adheres to strict USGS quality assurance and safety standards.
Stakeholder Relations: Represent the USGS in meetings with Tribal, State, and Federal partners to maintain funding and cooperative agreements.

Requirements

To succeed in this role, you must meet the following criteria:

Specialized Experience: One year of experience equivalent to the GS-11 grade level, specifically in hydrologic data collection and network management.
Safety Readiness: A willingness to work in challenging outdoor conditions, including heavy lifting and navigating steep terrain.
Documentation: You must maintain a valid driver’s license and be suitable for a Public Trust position.

Salary Overview

This position offers a competitive federal salary, ensuring that your expertise is well-compensated.

Pay Period	Salary Range
Annual	$89,508 – $116,362

Benefits

Working for the federal government comes with unparalleled benefits, including:

Health Coverage: Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance options.
Retirement: Access to the federal Thrift Savings Plan and pension plans.
Work-Life Balance: Generous vacation and sick leave policies.

Application Tips

When applying, pay close attention to the two-page resume limit. This is a strict requirement. Ensure your resume highlights your specialized experience clearly, using month-year formatting for all positions. Additionally, if you are a current or former federal employee, ensure your most recent performance appraisal is included in your application package to receive full consideration.

The position of Supervisory Hydrologic Technician is a key leadership role that balances technical skill with people management. If you are ready to lead in the field and contribute to the vital scientific mission of the USGS, apply by the September 22, 2026 deadline.

Why This Supervisory Hydrologic Technician Job Matters

Lead the future of water resource science in the heart of Big Sky Country as a Supervisory Hydrologic Technician with the U.S. Geological Survey.

Supervisory Hydrologic Technician Job Overview

The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) is seeking a dedicated Field Office Chief for the Wyoming-Montana Water Science Center in Billings, Montana. In this leadership role, you will oversee critical hydrologic data collection and monitoring programs, supervise a team of professionals, and ensure that our technical operations meet the highest national standards for water resources research. This is an exceptional opportunity for a seasoned hydrologic professional to make a tangible impact on the sustainability and safety of our nation's water systems through strategic leadership and technical expertise.

Requirements for Supervisory Hydrologic Technician

U.S. citizenship or national status.
Ability to pass a background investigation for a Moderate Risk/Public Trust position.
Possession of a valid state driver's license.
Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Government Motor Vehicle Operator's Identification Card.
Completion of a one-year supervisory probationary period.
Capability to perform strenuous fieldwork including climbing structures, working on unstable terrain, and wading in water.
Ability to lift and carry equipment weighing 50 pounds or more.
Must meet all time-in-grade and qualification requirements by the closing date.

Preferred Qualifications for Supervisory Hydrologic Technician

Demonstrated experience in planning and coordinating large-scale hydrologic monitoring networks.
Proven track record of providing technical guidance and quality assurance for complex data collection projects.
Strong interpersonal skills for collaborating with Federal, State, Tribal, and local stakeholders.
Experience in budget planning and resource management to support organizational objectives.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Comprehensive federal health insurance programs.
✓Robust retirement savings plans, including the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
✓Generous paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays.
✓Opportunities for professional development and career progression.
✓Flexible work arrangements including potential telework options.
✓Access to the Department of the Interior’s diverse career networks.

💡 How to Apply Supervisory Hydrologic Technician Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Supervisory Hydrologic Technician Job

Review the full job announcement on the official federal portal.
Ensure your resume is limited to two pages and meets all specified formatting guidelines.
Prepare required documents, including SF-50s and performance appraisals for current or former federal employees.
Complete the online application and all mandatory USA Hire assessments.
Submit your application package by 11:59 PM (ET) on the closing date.

💡 General Tips

Use the resume builder to ensure your work history includes required details like hours worked and dates.
Focus your resume on specialized experience that demonstrates leadership and technical proficiency at the GS-11 equivalent level.
Double-check that all required supporting documents are uploaded before submission; missing items can disqualify your application.
Set aside at least three hours to complete the USA Hire assessments in a quiet environment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a security clearance required for this position?

No, a security clearance is not required; however, the role is designated as a Moderate Risk/Public Trust position, which requires a successful background investigation.

Can I submit more than two pages for my resume?

No, the resume must not exceed two single-sided pages. Resumes exceeding this limit will not be accepted.

What kind of physical conditions should I expect?

Expect to work in various outdoor environments, including extreme weather conditions, and perform strenuous tasks such as climbing and navigating rugged terrain.

Does this role require travel?

Yes, you may be required to travel up to 50% of the time to conduct field inspections and attend partner meetings.

What if I have a disability?

The USGS provides reasonable accommodations for the assessment process. Please review the official instructions for requesting assistance prior to starting your online tests.

Job from Geological Survey

The Department of the Interior (DOI) and the USGS are committed to managing the nation's natural resources and providing actionable scientific information. By monitoring everything from ground-water trends to natural hazards, the USGS plays an essential role in helping government and private entities make informed decisions about our changing Earth.