Hydrologist Career in South Africa
Explore the official OFO occupation, common tasks, specialisations and approved South African qualification pathways.
Occupation overview
Research the distribution, circulation and physical properties of underground and surface waters; and the form and intensity of precipitation, its rate of infiltration into the soil, movement through the earth, and its return to the ocean and atmosphere.
What does a Hydrologist do?
A hydrologist studies how water moves and behaves above and below the ground. This includes examining rivers, groundwater, rainfall, infiltration into soil, movement through the earth, and the return of water to the ocean and atmosphere. The work helps build an evidence-based understanding of water availability, water movement and changing water conditions.
How to become a Hydrologist in South Africa
- Develop a strong foundation in the water cycle, rainfall, soils, groundwater and surface water.
- Build research and analytical abilities relevant to studying the distribution, circulation and physical properties of water.
- Explore relevant education and training options in water, environmental or earth-science fields, and verify current entry requirements with institutions or providers.
- Seek opportunities to apply knowledge to surface-water, groundwater or precipitation studies.
- Confirm the most suitable current qualification and career pathway with a relevant South African education or professional body.
Edupstairs Preparation Guidance
There is no single universal qualification pathway established here for becoming a hydrologist, so education requirements may vary. Preparation should focus on understanding surface and underground water, precipitation, infiltration and the movement of water through the earth. Verify current course, provider and progression details with relevant South African institutions.
Useful school subjects
- Mathematics
- Geography
- Physical Sciences
Skills that may help
- Research and investigation
- Analytical thinking
- Understanding the water cycle
- Observation of environmental processes
- Interpreting patterns in rainfall and water movement
- Scientific problem-solving