Hydrometric Technician and Technologist

Hydrology is the study of the distribution and circulation of water in the atmosphere, on the surface of the Earth and in the sub-surface of the Earth.

Duties and responsibilities vary from one position to another but, in general, hydrometric technicians and technologists:

• carry out studies on snowpacks to determine the density and water content prior to melt
• measure rainfall rates and amounts and other meteorological conditions (for example, temperature, humidity, wind speed and direction)
• place, operate, monitor and calibrate instruments to measure and record the rate of water flow in rivers and streams
• record changing water levels in streams, reservoirs, ponds and wells
• place, operate, monitor and calibrate instruments for continuous measures of water chemistry and isotopic measures 
• take samples of suspended and bottom sediment in lakes and rivers
• sample chemistry and isotopes of surface water and wells
• collect data on groundwater quality and quantity
• survey lake bottom profiles and compute water volumes in lakes and reservoirs
• process and analyze computer generated data to monitor long term changes and identify trends
• carry out land surveys to obtain cross-sectional areas and topography elevations
• co-ordinate and construct gauging stations and install water monitoring wells
• interpret maps and aerial photographs.

Hydrometric technicians and technologists often work alone, dividing their time between office work and field work. Field work requires considerable travel, often in remote areas using various forms of transportation (for example, quads, snowmobiles, skis, snowshoes, boats, helicopters). They routinely may be required to lift more than 20 kilograms. Sometimes, heavier lifting (up to 40 kilograms) is required. Some hydrometric technicians and technologists must climb towers to install instruments and radio antennas.

Hours of work can be irregular depending on the season. For example, long hours may be required during spring break-up or flooding. Work during this time can be extremely hazardous. Working conditions can be harsh when working outdoors in extreme weather.

Hydrometric technicians need the following characteristics:

• good health
• a desire to work outdoors
• a willingness to travel
• organizational skills and the ability to manage intensive workloads
• flexibility and adaptability
• the ability to record observations accurately and in an organized manner
• the ability to communicate well in person and in writing
• the ability to work independently with little supervision
• the ability to work well with others
• the flexibility required to adapt to new situations and changing technology.

They should enjoy using instruments and equipment to perform tasks requiring precision, and gathering and analyzing information.

Below-average occupational growth is expected in Alberta for 2016 to 2020. Job openings are a result of employment turnover and newly created positions.

Hydrometric technicians and technologists are employed by the following types of organizations:

• geology and engineering consulting firms
• environmental consulting firms
• petroleum and mining companies
• manufacturing, construction and utility companies
• government departments
• educational institutions.

At times, overseas work may be available.

Advancement opportunities depend on the size and nature of the employing organization, and the individual's education and experience.

Hydrometric technicians and technologists are part of the larger 2011 National Occupational Classification 2212: Geological and mineral technologists and technicians. In Alberta, 82% of people employed in this classification work in the following industries:

• Mining and Oil and Gas Extraction (PDF)
• Professional, Scientific and Technical Services (PDF)

The employment outlook in this occupation will be influenced by a wide variety of factors including:

• trends and events affecting overall employment (especially in the industries listed above)
• location in Alberta
• employment turnover (work opportunities generated by people leaving existing positions)
• occupational growth (work opportunities resulting from the creation of new positions that never existed before)
• size of the occupation.

Over 5,100 Albertans are employed in the Geological and mineral technologists and technicians occupational group. This group is expected to have a below-average annual growth of 0.8% from 2016 to 2020. As a result, 41 new positions are forecast to be created each year, in addition to job openings created by employment turnover. Note: As hydrometric technicians and technologists form only a part of this larger occupational group, only some of these newly created positions will be for hydrometric technicians and technologists.

Employment turnover is expected to increase as members of the baby boom generation retire over the next few years.

Association of Science and Engineering Technology Professionals of Alberta - ASET website: www.aset.ab.ca

ECO Canada (Environmental Careers Organization) website: www.eco.ca

Canadian Environmental Certification Approvals Board (CECAB) website: www.cecab.org

Water Survey of Canada, Environment Canada website: www.ec.gc.ca/rhc-wsc

For more information on career planning, education and jobs, visit the Alberta Learning Information Service (ALIS) website, call the Alberta Career Information Hotline toll-free at 1-800-661-3753 or 780-422-4266 in Edmonton, or visit an Alberta Works Centre near you.