Last updated: 2025 BLS data · Page refreshed:
How much do Hydrologic Technicians make in California?
Last updated: 2025 data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics
BLS-reported salary distribution — from entry-level (10th percentile) to top earners (90th percentile).
Hydrologic Technicians in California earn a median salary of $70,790 per year ($5,899/month). This is 11.2% above the national average of $63,641. California ranks #6 out of 28 states for Hydrologic Technicians pay. Approximately 300 people work in this occupation across California. Salaries increased by 10.8% compared to 2024.
Collect and organize data concerning the distribution and circulation of ground and surface water, and data on its physical, chemical, and biological properties. Measure and report on flow rates and ground water levels, maintain field equipment, collect water samples, install and collect sampling equipment, and process samples for shipment to testing laboratories. May collect data on behalf of hydrologists, engineers, developers, government agencies, or agriculture.
Source: O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor
Salaries for Hydrologic Technicians in California range from $48,480 at the 10th percentile (entry level) to $104,750 at the 90th percentile (experienced). The middle 50% earn between $55,370 and $88,900.
| Percentile | Annual Salary | Hourly Rate | Monthly |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile (Entry Level) | $48,480 | $23.31 | $4,040 |
| 25th Percentile | $55,370 | $26.62 | $4,614 |
| Median (50th) | $70,790 | $34.03 | $5,899 |
| 75th Percentile | $88,900 | $42.74 | $7,408 |
| 90th Percentile (Experienced) | $104,750 | $50.36 | $8,729 |
Note: The mean (average) salary of $74,760 differs from the median because salary distributions are typically skewed by high earners.
Similar Jobs That Pay More in California:
What does this salary really buy? See Hydrologic Technicians salary in California adjusted for cost of living →
How much do you actually take home? See Hydrologic Technicians take-home pay in California after taxes →
Compare Hydrologic Technicians pay across states — sorted by highest median salary.
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Salary data is sourced from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) survey, 2025 estimates. The OEWS survey covers approximately 1.1 million establishments nationwide.
Annual salaries are calculated based on a standard 2,080-hour work year. Actual compensation may vary based on experience, education, employer, and local market conditions. Figures do not include benefits, bonuses, or overtime pay.
Our Methodology · Data Sources · Source: BLS OEWS