Hydrologist

Kristin Hanson

I was attracted to the science of hydrology because it combines many disciplines and allows me to meet practical goals. It isn't realistic to expect I can save the entire world, however, each project I accomplish helps improve a small part of the world. The best advice I ever received was to gain experience in a variety of areas and types of projects. This allowed me to challenge myself. I started out as a research assistant and then returned to school for graduate work before progressing into more senior roles.

I have accumulated 12 years of diverse experience in planning, executing and managing environmental audits, conducting site investigations and remediating contaminated sites. My experience includes everything from collecting samples in the field to giving technical presentations and training to clients. Types of organizations that might hire hydrologists include consulting companies, municipal planning/public works departments, government regulatory agencies and industrial companies.

Jobs are most commonly found in urban centers. Things are constantly changing and I read journals and take short courses regularly. I also learn from my experiences managing diverse projects, and from interacting with the other talented professionals in my company. I am a member of the National Groundwater Association, the Association of Professional Geoscientists of Ontario and the Canadian Geotechnical Society. The industry needs talent. I predict that salaries will continue to go up as skilled professionals and the advice that they provide to the industry become more sought after.

Corporately, industries will begin to see environmental needs as something to be planned and addressed in a preventative way, rather than in a reactionary way. Air is a fast-growing area right now. Pharmaceuticals are a new contaminant being investigated. As we learn more about our environment and human health, things will continue to change rapidly. I recommend a strong background in geology and chemistry for entering this type of work. There is such diversity in this profession that you can choose the opportunity you want to match your lifestyle.

It is important to manage all aspects of your life. Don't let your personal life slip so that you work all the time. You have to achieve a balance. I have many projects on the go and typically work 40-60 hours/wk, mostly in the office. My work doesn't have typical 9-5 hours. The day isn't over until deadlines are met and reports are delivered. I never find the work boring and have different challenges each day. I manage projects, staff, schedules, clients and data, review reports and provide input to the work of others.

I am constantly juggling priorities to meet the client's expectations. I interact with clients, engineers and lawyers who have different areas of knowledge and expertise. It is important that I can communicate effectively and explain technical information in a non-technical way. My greatest work accomplishment so far has been remediation of a hazardous waste site in a residential neighborhood. This project was special because I was able to use existing laws to get the waste de-listed from hazardous to non-hazardous, which allowed my client to get the work done sooner. This ability to bridge the gap between the environment and environmental law is a unique contribution that gives me a sense of satisfaction.