iStockphoto/BartCo
Hydrometric Technician and Technologist
Hydrometric technicians and technologists may work independently or provide technical support for hydrologists and related scientists and engineers.
-
Avg. Salary $82,982.00
-
Avg. Wage $42.06
-
Minimum Education 2 years post-secondary
-
Outlook below avg
-
Employed 2,500
-
In Demand Lower
Also Known As
Biological Sciences Technician/Technologist, Environmental Technician/Technologist, Groundwater Technician, Physical Sciences Technician/Technologist
NOC Codes
In Canada, the federal government groups and organizes occupations based on a National Occupational Classification (NOC) system. This alis occupation may not reflect the entire NOC group it is part of. Data for the NOC group can apply across multiple occupations.
The NOC system is updated every 5 years to reflect changes in the labour market. Government forms and labour market data may group and refer to an occupation differently, depending on the system used. Here is how this occupation has been classified over time:
- 2006 NOC: Geological and Mineral Technologists (2212.1)
- 2006 NOC-S: Geological and Mineral Technologists and Technicians (C112)
- 2011 NOC: Geological and mineral technologists and technicians (2212)
- 2016 NOC: Geological and mineral technologists and technicians (2212)
Skills Shortage
Employers that Recruited in the Last 2 Years
38%
38%
Average Wage
Starting
Overall
Top
Average Wage
| Starting | $30.81 |
|---|---|
| Overall | $42.06 |
| Top | $64.15 |
-
Certification Provincially Regulated
-
Strength Required Lift over 20 kg
Interest Codes
The Hydrometric Technician and Technologist is part of the following larger National Occupational Classification (NOC).
Geological and Mineral Technologists
- OBJECTIVE
-
Interest in precision working to operate and maintain geophysical survey and well logging instruments and equipment, and to perform physical and chemical tests
- INNOVATIVE
-
Interest in analyzing geophysical and survey data to assist engineers and geologists in the evaluation and analysis of petroleum and mineral reservoirs; may assist engineers and metallurgists in specifying material selection, metal treatments and corrosion protection systems; may assist hydrogeologists in evaluating ground water and well circulation
- directive
-
Interest in supervising prospecting field trips, exploratory drilling, geological survey programs and studies, and the preparation and of rock, mineral and metal samples; may supervise oil and gas well drilling, well completions and work-overs and welding projects
Reading Interest Codes
A Quick Guide
The interest code helps you figure out if you’d like to work in a particular occupation.
It’s based on the Canadian Work Preference Inventory (CWPI), which measures 5 occupational interests: Directive, Innovative, Methodical, Objective and Social.
Each set of 3 interest codes is listed in order of importance.
A code in capital letters means it’s a strong fit for the occupation.
A code in all lowercase letters means the fit is weaker.
Duties
Updated Dec 19, 2016
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.
Working Conditions
Updated Dec 19, 2016
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.
-
Strength Required Lift over 20 kg
Skills & Abilities
Updated Dec 19, 2016
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.
Educational Requirements
Updated Dec 19, 2016
Most hydrometric technicians and technologists have related post-secondary education such as a certificate or diploma in biological or environmental sciences, or university courses in biology, chemistry, biochemistry or environmental science. Experience operating boats, four-wheel drive vehicles and recreational vehicles is an asset.
Post-secondary institutions throughout Alberta offer programs in biology, chemistry, biochemistry, environmental science and related disciplines.
Related Education
The following schools offer programs or courses that are related to this occupation but are not required to enter the field.
Bay River College
Mount Royal University
Southern Alberta Institute of Technology
For a broad list of programs and courses that may be related to this occupation try searching using keywords.
Certification Requirements
Updated Dec 19, 2016
Certified Engineering Technologist
Certified engineering technologists (CETs) apply industry-recognized codes, standards, procedures and practices to solve problems within their technological areas of expertise. Depending on their duties supervision by a Professional Engineer / Geoscientist or Professional Technologist (Engineering / Geoscience) may be required.
Legislation
Under Alberta’s Engineering and Geoscience Professions Act [pdf] and ASET Regulation [pdf], you must be a registered member of the Association of Science and Engineering Technology Professionals of Alberta (ASET) to use the title Certified Engineering Technologist (CET). You do not have to be registered if you do not call yourself a Certified Engineering Technologist.
What You Need
Registration requires successful completion of:
- an applied science, engineering or information technology program accredited at the technologist level by Technology Accreditation Canada (TAC) or equivalent
- at least 2 years of acceptable technical experience
- 3 professional references
- completion of a competency report
- successful completion of ASET’s Professional Practice Exam.
Other requirements may include:
- ASET certification exam
- proficiency in English
- proof of legal entitlement to work in Canada.
For detailed official information about registration requirements, contact ASET.
Working in Alberta
Certified engineering technologists who are registered and in good standing with a regulatory body in another province may transfer to Alberta as a Certified Engineering Technologist or Applied Science Technologist if the two jurisdictions require similar responsibilities and competencies. For more information, see What if I am already certified in another province or territory in Canada? and the ASET website.
To learn about certification for internationally educated certified engineering technologists, see Electrical Engineering Technologist Certification Process and Mechanical Engineering Technologist Certification Process.
Contact Details
The Association of Science and Engineering Technology Professionals of Alberta (ASET)
1600, 9888 Jasper Ave.
Edmonton, Alberta T5J 5C6
Canada
Call: 780-425-0626
Toll-free in Alberta: 1-800-272-5619
Fax: 780-424-5053
Email: asetadmin@aset.ab.ca
Website: www.aset.ab.ca
Certified Technician
Under general supervision, certified technicians routinely apply industry-recognized codes, standards, procedures and practices. They use established engineering, geoscience or applied science principles and methods to solve problems. Duties may include testing, troubleshooting, inspecting, calibrating, drafting, maintaining, modelling, compiling, surveying, ensuring quality control, supervising in the field and working in sales.
Legislation
Under Alberta’s Engineering and Geoscience Professions Act [pdf] and ASET Regulation [pdf], you must be a registered member of the Association of Science and Engineering Technology Professionals of Alberta (ASET) to use the title Certified Technician (C.Tech.). You do not have to be registered if you do not call yourself a Certified Technician.
What You Need
Registration requires:
- Graduation from an applied science, information technology or engineering technology program
- At least 2 years of acceptable technical experience
- 3 professional references
- Submission of a competency report, demonstrating at least 3 C.Tech. competencies
- Successful completion of ASET’s Professional Practice Exam
- Proficiency in English
For detailed official information, contact ASET.
Working in Alberta
Technicians who are certified by and in good standing with a regulatory organization elsewhere in Canada may be eligible for certification in Alberta if certified technicians in the 2 jurisdictions have similar responsibilities and competencies. For more information, see What if I am already certified in another province or territory in Canada? and the ASET website.
To learn about the certification process for internationally educated certified technicians, see Mechanical Engineering Technician Certification Process.
Contact Details
The Association of Science and Engineering Technology Professionals of Alberta (ASET)
1600, 9888 Jasper Ave.
Edmonton, Alberta T5J 5C6
Canada
Call: 780-425-0626
Toll-free in Alberta: 1-800-272-5619
Fax: 780-424-5053
Email: asetadmin@aset.ab.ca
Website: www.aset.ab.ca
Professional Technologist (Engineering or Geoscience)
Professional Technologists (Engineering) and Professional Technologists (Geoscience) are currently unique to Alberta. They practise independently in accordance with established methodologies and specifications in the fields of engineering and geoscience. They have the authority to sign off and stamp work within a prescribed scope of practice.
Legislation
Under Alberta’s Engineering and Geoscience Professions Act [pdf] and Professional Technologists Regulation [pdf], you must be registered as a Professional Technologist (Engineering or Geoscience) by the Association of Science and Engineering Technology Professionals of Alberta (ASET) to practise engineering or geoscience within a prescribed scope of practice, or to use the titles Professional Technologist (Engineering) or Professional Technologist (Geoscience) or the abbreviations P.Tech. (Eng.) or P.Tech. (Geo.).
What You Need
To register as a Professional Technologist (Engineering or Geoscience), you must have:
- A designation as a Certified Engineering Technologist (CET) in good standing
- At least 6 years of work experience in areas that relate to engineering or geoscience, with at least 2 years under the supervision and control of an Alberta Professional Engineer or Professional Geologist in the your proposed area and scope of practice
- At least 2 years of post-secondary education in areas that relate to your proposed area and scope of practice
- At least 4 years of experience under the supervision and control of an Alberta Professional Engineer or Professional Geologist or at least 10 years of experience if your post-secondary education does not match your proposed area and scope of practice
- 3 professional references
- Proof of compliance with ASET’s Continuing Professional Development (CPD) program
- Successful completion of the National Professional Practice Exam
Other requirements may include:
- ASET Certification Exam
- Demonstration of proficiency in English
- Proof of legal entitlement to work in Canada
For detailed, official information, contact ASET.
Working in Alberta
Professional technologists with a license to practice engineering or geoscience are currently only recognized in Alberta. They may be eligible for a limited licence with engineering regulatory organizations in other jurisdictions. Information on obtaining a limited licence is available through the regulatory organizations.
Registered professional technologists in Alberta may transfer to another province and receive recognition as a Certified Engineering Technologist or Applied Science Technologist by completing the process set by the local provincial regulatory organizations for technologists. For more information, see What if I am already certified in another province or territory in Canada? and the ASET website.
Contact Details
Association of Science and Engineering Technology Professionals of Alberta (ASET)
1600, 9888 Jasper Avenue
Edmonton, Alberta T5J 5C6
Canada
Call: 780-425-0626
Toll-free in Alberta: 1-800-272-5619
Fax: 780-424-5053
Email: asetadmin@aset.ab.ca
Website: www.aset.ab.ca
Employment & Advancement
Updated Dec 19, 2016
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:
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.
Wage & Salary
Updated Dec 19, 2016
Hourly Wage
For full-time and part-time employees
- Low
- High
- Average
- Median
Starting
Overall
Top
| Wages* | Low (5th percentile) | High (95th percentile) | Average | Median |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Starting | $20.19 | $54.66 | $30.81 | $26.83 |
| Overall | $23.10 | $59.74 | $42.06 | $43.98 |
| Top | $29.00 | $84.58 | $64.15 | $70.14 |
Swipe left and right to view all data. Scroll left and right to view all data.
* All wage estimates are hourly except where otherwise indicated. Wages and salaries do not include overtime hours, tips, benefits, profit shares, bonuses (unrelated to production) and other forms of compensation.
B: Good Reliability
Data Reliability Code Definition
Good Reliability, represents a CV of between 6.01% and 15.00% and/or fewer than 30 survey observations and/or if survey observations represent less than 50% of all estimated employment for the occupation.
Industry Information
| Oil & Gas Extraction | $106,802 |
|---|---|
| ALL INDUSTRIES | $82,982 |
| Professional, Scientific & Technical Services | $76,683 |
| Public Administration | $74,082 |
Skills Shortage
Employers that Recruited in the Last 2 Years
38%
38%)
Recruiting Employers that Experienced Hiring Difficulties
18%
18%
Employers with Unfilled Vacancies of over 4 Months
10%
10%
Vacancy Rate
7%
Other Sources of Information
Updated Dec 19, 2016
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
Get information and referrals about career, education, and employment options from Alberta Supports.
Updated Mar 01, 2012. The information contained in this profile is current as of the dates shown. Salary, employment outlook, and educational program information may change without notice. It is advised that you confirm this information before making any career decisions.
Was this page useful?