Hydrogeologist

What does a hydrogeologist do? – Tasks and work environment

A hydrogeologist works with investigating and analyzing the occurrence, movement, and quality of groundwater in the soil. Tasks often include fieldwork involving sampling and measurements, as well as laboratory analyses and data evaluation. A large part of the work involves assessing how human activities, such as construction projects or pollution, affect groundwater and proposing appropriate measures. Hydrogeologists are often employed by consulting firms, authorities, or research institutes and work both outdoors in varied terrain and indoors at offices. The work requires precision, analytical skills, and a strong interest in environmental and water issues.

Salary development over time

The salary development for hydrogeologists has been steadily positive over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 44,200 kronor per month. During 2023, it increased to 46 400 kronor, corresponding to an increase of about 5%. In 2024, the salary continued to rise to 47,800 kronor per month, an additional increase of just over 3%. The salary trend reflects continued demand for expertise in hydrogeology, especially related to environmental issues, climate adaptation, and urban development. The trend shows that the job market values experience and further education, which contributes to ongoing salary increases as the profession becomes increasingly strategic.

Hydrogeologist salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 47,800 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 37,900 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 59,300 SEK/month
• Hourly wage: 287 SEK/hour
• Women: 45 900 SEK/month
• Men: 48 800 SEK/month
• Women’s share of men’s salary: 94%
• Regional differences: Salaries may vary depending on region and employer, but larger cities and the private sector tend to offer higher salaries.

Education and qualifications

To work as a hydrogeologist, a solid education in geoscience is required, often with specialization in hydrogeology or environmental geology. The basic education is often combined with advanced courses in hydrology, chemistry, and environmental engineering. Practical experience through fieldwork or internships is highly meritorious and sometimes a requirement for employment. Further education and certifications in, for example, environmental permitting or GIS systems can increase competitiveness in the job market.

• Formal education: Bachelor's (3 years) or master's (5 years) in geoscience, physical geography, or environmental science
• Specialized courses: Hydrology, environmental engineering, geochemistry
• Internships/training: Internships during studies provide valuable experience
• Certifications: For example, environmental permitting, GIS, or project management
• Prerequisites: Science-oriented upper secondary education

Common benefits and compensations

Common benefits for hydrogeologists include occupational pension, wellness allowance, extra vacation days, and the possibility of flexible working hours and remote work. In some cases, education grants, insurance, and access to specialized field equipment are also offered. Benefits vary depending on employer and sector, but many employers in both private and public sectors have generous conditions to attract qualified personnel.

Competition and challenges

Competition for positions in hydrogeology varies depending on region and labor market demand. Since the profession requires a high degree of specialization and practical experience, those with specialized skills and relevant further education usually have the best chances of employment. One of the main challenges is staying updated on new methods and environmental legislation, as well as working interdisciplinary on projects with many stakeholders. Limited data on labor market forecasts makes it difficult to give an exact assessment of future competition, but technological development and increasing environmental requirements suggest a continued need for qualified hydrogeologists.

Tips for aspiring hydrogeologists

To succeed as a hydrogeologist, having a genuine interest in natural sciences and environmental issues is beneficial. Analytical skills are crucial when interpreting complex data and proposing solutions, while accuracy is needed during fieldwork and reporting. Good communication skills facilitate collaboration with other specialists and authorities, which is common in larger projects. It’s wise to seek internships or summer jobs early in the career to build experience and networks. Flexibility and adaptability are also important, as tasks can vary greatly between projects. Continuing education, such as in GIS or environmental permitting, enhances competitiveness. Finally, a structured work approach is essential to manage the many components involved in the profession.

Key facts about hydrogeologists

• Education level: Bachelor's or master's in geoscience
• Work environment: Alternates between fieldwork and office
• Typical employment: Consulting assignments and project employment
• Demand: 143 job openings in the profession at the latest measurement
• Special skills: Groundwater modeling and environmental analysis

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, a hydrogeologist can advance to specialist roles, project manager, or take responsibility for larger environmental and water investigations. The career can also develop into research or consultancy focusing on advanced groundwater modeling or environmental regulation. According to the Public Employment Service’s forecasts, there is no detailed assessment specifically for hydrogeologists, but the profession shows a stable number of job opportunities, and the need for water and environmental experts is expected to remain high, especially as climate issues gain importance.

Common questions about hydrogeologists

• What is the average salary of a hydrogeologist?
  - A hydrogeologist has an average salary of 47,800 kronor per month.
• What are the lowest and highest salaries for a hydrogeologist?
  - The lowest salary is 37,900 kronor and the highest is 59,300 kronor per month.
• Are there salary differences between women and men?
  - Yes, women earn on average 45 900 kronor and men 48 800 kronor, which means women earn 94% of men's salaries.
• What education is needed to become a hydrogeologist?
  - Usually, a bachelor's or master's degree in geoscience, often supplemented with courses in hydrology and environmental engineering.
• What is the job market outlook for hydrogeologists?
  - No exact forecasts, but 143 job openings indicate good demand.
• What tasks does a hydrogeologist perform?
  - Tasks include fieldwork, sampling, data analysis, and evaluation of groundwater quality and flow.
• What personal qualities are important for a hydrogeologist?
  - Analytical ability, accuracy, communication skills, and flexibility are key qualities.