Field Hydrologist
Location: Berkeley, CA
Employment Type: Full-Time
Salary Range: $38-42/hr, depending on education and years’ experience
Company: Balance Hydrologics, Inc.
About Us:
Balance Hydrologics, Inc. is a leading environmental consulting firm specializing in the assessment and restoration of watershed, channel, groundwater, and wetland systems. We deliver science-driven solutions through hydrologic and hydraulic analyses, geomorphic assessments, sediment transport studies, and habitat restoration design. Our firm integrates advanced field investigations, modeling, and multi-disciplinary collaboration to address challenges such as flood risk, urbanization impacts, and climate change resilience. We are seeking a dedicated Hydrologist to join our team and contribute to our mission of improving ecological function and watershed health.
Position Overview:
As a Hydrologist at Balance Hydrologics, you will be responsible for conducting field monitoring and supporting various environmental restoration projects. This role involves working closely with interdisciplinary teams, performing fieldwork in challenging environments, and developing technical reports to support our clients in sustainable resource management.
What You’ll Do:
Field and Technical Responsibilities:
- Conduct field monitoring, including measuring streamflow and other hydrologic parameters, even during storm events.
- Manage streamflow and/or sediment transport gaging stations, including field measurements and development of annual reports.
- Collect and process geospatial data, including LiDAR or UAV-collected datasets.
- Perform surveying tasks using total stations, auto levels, or RTK GPS.
- Draft and develop project plans, specifications, and cost estimates for stormwater design, habitat restoration, and flood control studies.
- Install, maintain, and regularly calibrate hydrologic monitoring equipment such as streamflow and rainfall sensors.
- Retrieve and analyze environmental data from online databases.
- Ensure the organization and management of field notes and data for reporting purposes.
- Process field data for report preparation.
- Conduct regular field maintenance of hydrologic monitoring equipment and arrange maintenance of field vehicle(s).
- Manage laboratory operations, including deliveries, sample management, and upkeep of lab space.
- Take photographs and manage images and files.
Communication and Collaboration:
- Effectively communicate technical information through written reports, quantitative analysis, and presentations.
- Engage with clients regularly and provide proactive solutions in meetings and hearings.
- Work collaboratively with interdisciplinary teams, including biologists and land-planning specialists.
- Explain hydrologic and geomorphic processes to a variety of audiences.
What We’re Looking For:
Education and Experience:
- B.S. degree in hydrologic or earth sciences; M.S. a bonus.
- Minimum of 2 years of professional experience with demonstrated research and publication potential.
- Experience with hydrologic and water-quality analysis and procedures.
- Willingness and ability to conduct fieldwork during storm events.
Skills and Competencies:
- Strong background in hydrology, fluvial geomorphology, and sediment transport.
- Proficiency in data collection and processing.
- Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
- Ability to work outdoors in challenging conditions.
- Effective written and verbal communication skills.
Work Environment & Physical Demands:
- Work includes field surveys in challenging environments and adverse weather conditions.
- Use of standard office equipment and software.
- Must be able to lift and carry up to 50 lbs.
- Use of bridge-board, cable-suspension equipment, and survey tools as required.
What We Offer:
- Competitive salary based on experience.
- Comprehensive medical and dental insurance plans with monthly premiums covered by us at over 98% for employees and 95% their dependents. Should you choose to opt-out of this benefit we will pay you $210/month.
- Vision plan offered to you and your dependents with options that don’t require any premium payment on your part.
- Flexible Spending Account (FSA) plans that offer you a tax savings on health-related and dependent care expenses.
- $50K life insurance policy, paid 100% by Balance, with an option to purchase additional coverage.
- Short and long-term disability plans paid 100% by Balance.
- Comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, and vision insurance.
- 401(k) retirement plan with company profit-sharing contribution.
- Paid time off, including vacation, sick leave, and holidays.
- Opportunities for professional growth in a mission-driven work environment.
How to Apply: Please submit your resume and a brief cover letter explaining your interest in the Hydrologist position to Colleen Haraden at charaden@balancehydro.com. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and early submissions are encouraged.
Balance Hydrologics is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
Join us and contribute to meaningful work that supports environmental sustainability!