Assistant Hydrologist

What does a hydrologist assistant do? – Tasks and work environment

A hydrologist assistant supports hydrologists and other water science experts. Tasks include collecting and analyzing water samples, measuring water levels, and monitoring flows in lakes, streams, and groundwater. The role often involves fieldwork in diverse environments, from laboratories to outdoor work at water bodies and rivers. The work environment can shift between office tasks and practical outdoor activities, requiring both technical skills and physical endurance. Hydrologist assistants are an important part of teams at authorities, consulting firms, and research institutions where environmental monitoring and water quality are central.

Salary development over time

The salary for a hydrologist assistant has shown a clear positive trend over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 38,700 SEK per month, increasing to 39 900 SEK in 2023. During 2024, the average salary has risen further to 41 700 SEK, representing a total increase of approximately 7.8% over the period. This salary growth can be linked to increased demand for water-related expertise and greater requirements for environmental monitoring. Although the profession is a subset of laboratory engineers, there has been a steady demand on the job market, which has also helped push up salary levels. Education level and specialization within hydrology often positively influence salary development.

Hydrologist assistant salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 41 700 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 31,800 SEK/month (female, private sector worker, high school diploma)
• Highest salary: 52,000 SEK/month (female, private sector employee, postgraduate degree)
• Hourly wage: 251 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn 40 900 SEK, men earn 42 600 SEK (96% of men's salary)
• Regional differences: Information about regional salary differences is unavailable

Education and qualifications

To work as a hydrologist assistant, a high school diploma with a science focus is typically required, but many employers prefer post-secondary studies in hydrology, environmental science, or laboratory techniques. Practical experience from laboratory work and field measurements is advantageous. Specialized courses and certifications in water analysis or environmental monitoring can also increase employability.

• Formal education: High school diploma with science focus (3 years), preferably supplemented with university studies in hydrology or environmental science
• Certifications: Courses in water analysis or environmental monitoring
• Internships: Workplace internships or trainee programs within the environmental and water sectors
• Prerequisites: Basic laboratory skills and good physics knowledge
• Tips for choosing: Combine theoretical studies with practical experience to increase competitiveness

Common benefits and compensations

Hydrologist assistants are often offered benefits such as wellness allowances, extra vacation days, and flexible working hours. Access to work clothing and equipment for fieldwork is common, as well as opportunities for professional development through courses and conferences. Some employers also provide pension contributions and insurance as part of employment conditions.

Competition and challenges

Competition for positions as a hydrologist assistant can vary depending on region and employer, but demand within laboratory engineering remains generally stable. Challenges in the profession often include high demands for accuracy in data collection and analysis, as well as the ability to work independently in diverse environments. Limited data means the Swedish Public Employment Service does not provide a detailed forecast, but with 564 available jobs in the field, there are good opportunities for those with the right skills. Technological advances and increased environmental requirements may, however, impose higher demands for further education and flexibility.

Tips for those aspiring to become a hydrologist assistant

To succeed as a hydrologist assistant, it’s beneficial to combine analytical skills with an interest in the environment and nature. Precision is vital, especially when collecting and processing measurement data, while a solution-oriented attitude helps with unforeseen problems in the field. Developing good teamwork skills is also important, as work often occurs in teams with other technicians and researchers. A willingness to learn new techniques and methods is a significant advantage, as well as being flexible to adapt to changing work environments and tasks. Finally, endurance and a sense of responsibility are key qualities, as the work can sometimes be physically and mentally demanding.

Key facts about hydrologist assistants

• Education level: High school diploma, often supplemented with university courses
• Work environment: Varies between laboratory, office, and outdoor settings
• Typical employment: Full-time, sometimes shift or project-based
• Demand: 564 available jobs in the laboratory engineering field
• Special skills: Water sampling, environmental analysis, laboratory work

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a hydrologist assistant, opportunities open to advance to roles such as laboratory engineer, environmental technician, or project manager within the water and environmental sectors. Further education in hydrology, environmental science, or technical biology can lead to more qualified research or specialist roles. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service, no precise forecast exists for hydrologist assistants due to limited data, but the general trend in laboratory engineering indicates continued stable demand. Technological progress and increased environmental regulations are expected to sustain the need for water expertise, making the profession attractive for those interested in environment and technology.

Frequently asked questions about hydrologist assistants

• What does a hydrologist assistant earn?
  - The average salary is 41 700 SEK per month, with variation depending on experience, education, and employer.
• What are the gender differences in salary?
  - Women earn 40 900 SEK per month, which is 96% of men's salary (42 600 SEK).
• What education is required to become a hydrologist assistant?
  - High school diploma with a science focus is the minimum, but college courses in hydrology or environmental science are often advantageous.
• What tasks does a hydrologist assistant perform?
  - Tasks include water sampling, laboratory analysis, field measurements, and data reporting.
• Are there good future prospects?
  - The profession has 564 available jobs, but no exact forecast exists due to limited data.
• What is the highest and lowest salary for a hydrologist assistant?
  - The highest salary is 52,000 SEK and the lowest 31,800 SEK depending on education, gender, and employment type.
• What is the work environment like?
  - The variation is large – work occurs in laboratories, offices, and outdoor environments.