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Hydrometric technologists play a key role in the work of the Water Survey of Canada, which is a national organization within Environment Canada responsible for the collection, interpretation and dissemination of standardized water resource data and information in Canada.

The job involves a combination of extensive field work and concentrated periods of work at computer workstations in an office, computing, reviewing and performing analyses of collected data. A unique job characteristic is the end-to-end involvement in the data collection process, from selecting and siting monitoring equipment to the computation and analysis and, finally, submission of the approved data to a national data base. During the process, working in teams and contacts with clients are frequent.

Each hydrometric technologist is responsible for the water quantity monitoring at stations in a specific geographical area. Field work includes siting and installing structures, equipment and sensors, and calibration, troubleshooting and repair of equipment. A critical aspect of the work at each monitoring site is recording water levels and measuring streamflow from boats, bridges, cableways, ice cover or by wading into the stream. This is done to establish and maintain rating curves for the production of continuous streamflow records for a wide array of clients. At some sites, sediment and water quality samples are also taken to provide additional information.

All hydrometric technologists follow a four-year, on-the-job comprehensive career development program made up of 37 lesson packages. In addition, training is given in safety and health procedures and in supervisory and administrative functions.

Some familiarity with electronics and good computer and statistical analysis skills are increasingly important, as operations become more automated. Employees must have a real interest in working outdoors, be willing to travel extensively throughout the year and be prepared to work in remote locations.

Educational Requirements

Graduation from civil engineering technical institute programs, such as land surveying, water resources, environmental sciences, or university environmental, engineering and geography programs.

Other Career Options

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