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Dam Design Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Dam Safety Engineer

Bryn Mawr, PA · On-site

$80 - $100/hr

Direct studies of technical, environmental, and economic feasibility, engineering field studies, and dam design and safety studies. * Provide technical direction for contracts and specifications ...

Senior Dam Engineer

Seattle, WA · On-site

$120 - $160/hr

... dam engineering. Schnabel's high standards for quality, business ethics, and concern for the ... Schnabel is an ENR Top 500 Design Firm with 700+ employees in 31 offices throughout the United ...

Senior Dam Engineer

Seattle, WA · On-site

$118K - $163K/yr

... dam engineering. Schnabel's high standards for quality, business ethics, and concern for the ... Schnabel is an ENR Top 500 Design Firm with 700+ employees in 31 offices throughout the United ...

Senior Dam Engineer

Portland, OR · On-site

$110K - $152K/yr

... dam engineering. Schnabel's high standards for quality, business ethics, and concern for the ... Schnabel is an ENR Top 500 Design Firm with 700+ employees in 31 offices throughout the United ...

Senior Dam Engineer

Portland, OR · On-site

$120 - $160/hr

... dam engineering. Schnabel's high standards for quality, business ethics, and concern for the ... Schnabel is an ENR Top 500 Design Firm with 700+ employees in 31 offices throughout the United ...

Senior Dam Engineer

Seattle, WA · On-site

$118K - $163K/yr

... dam engineering. Schnabel's high standards for quality, business ethics, and concern for the ... Schnabel is an ENR Top 500 Design Firm with 700+ employees in 31 offices throughout the United ...

Senior Dam Engineer

Portland, OR · On-site

$110K - $152K/yr

... dam engineering. Schnabel's high standards for quality, business ethics, and concern for the ... Schnabel is an ENR Top 500 Design Firm with 700+ employees in 31 offices throughout the United ...

Senior Dam Engineer

Seattle, WA · On-site

$118K - $163K/yr

... dam engineering. Schnabel's high standards for quality, business ethics, and concern for the ... Schnabel is an ENR Top 500 Design Firm with 700+ employees in 31 offices throughout the United ...

Dam Safety Engineer Location: Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania (Some Travel & Overnight Stays Required) Job ... Strong knowledge of Engineering related to planning, design and operations concepts for water ...

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Dam Design information

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How much do dam design jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for dam design in the United States is $23.69, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.75 and $25.72 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a dam design engineer?

Dam designers are civil engineers or specialized professionals who plan, design, and oversee the construction of dams. They assess site conditions, hydrology, environmental impact, and materials to create safe and efficient structures for water storage, flood control, hydroelectric power, or irrigation. Their work involves detailed calculations, computer modeling, and compliance with strict regulatory and safety standards. Dam designers often collaborate with geologists, environmental scientists, and construction teams throughout the project lifecycle.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a dam design engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Dam Design Engineer, a strong background in civil or structural engineering, hydrology, and geotechnical analysis—usually backed by an engineering degree and relevant licensure (such as a PE)—is essential. Familiarity with design software like AutoCAD, Civil 3D, and simulation tools, as well as knowledge of dam safety regulations, is typically required. Strong problem-solving, project management, and communication skills help professionals excel in multidisciplinary teams and stakeholder interactions. These abilities ensure safe, efficient, and sustainable dam projects that meet technical standards and regulatory requirements.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in dam design projects, and how can they proactively address them?

Professionals in dam design often encounter challenges such as complex site conditions, evolving regulatory requirements, and the need to incorporate advanced safety measures. Coordinating with multidisciplinary teams—including geotechnical, structural, and environmental engineers—is essential to ensure all technical aspects are addressed. Staying updated on the latest design standards and leveraging modern modeling tools can help mitigate risks. Clear communication with clients and regulatory bodies also helps streamline approvals and project execution.

What is the difference between Dam Design vs Dam Construction?

AspectDam DesignDam Construction
Primary FocusPlanning, engineering, and creating detailed dam blueprintsBuilding and physically constructing the dam based on designs
Required SkillsEngineering, CAD, project planningConstruction management, site work, heavy machinery operation
Work EnvironmentDesign offices, project sites during planning phasesConstruction sites, fieldwork environments
CertificationsEngineering licenses, civil engineering credentialsConstruction safety certifications, heavy equipment licenses

Dam Design involves creating detailed plans and engineering specifications for dams, focusing on safety, feasibility, and environmental impact. Dam Construction, on the other hand, is the process of physically building the dam according to those plans. Both roles are essential in dam projects but differ in focus, skills, and work environment.

More about Dam Design jobs

What cities are hiring for Dam Design jobs?

Cities with the most Dam Design job openings:

What states have the most Dam Design jobs?

States with the most job openings for Dam Design jobs include:

Infographic showing various Dam Design job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,274 per year, or $23.7 per hour.

Dam Safety Engineer

Aqua America, Inc.

Bryn Mawr, PA • On-site

$80 - $100/hr

Other

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 20 days ago


Aqua America rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 19 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Aqua, part of Essential Utilities, is a leader in safe, reliable water and wastewater services across Pennsylvania. We are seeking a highly skilled Dam Safety Engineer to join our team.

Location

Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania (some travel and overnight stays required)

Job Type

Full‑time

Position Overview

As a Dam Safety Engineer, you will provide technical oversight for engineering and operational activities related to dam safety inspections, monitoring, coordination, and reporting for water retention structures owned by Aqua. This includes low‑hazard and high‑hazard dams as well as floodwater protection systems at water treatment plants. You will collaborate with local consultants, PA DEP Dam Safety, and other stakeholders to implement and continuously improve Aqua’s Dam Safety Program.

Key Responsibilities
  • Provide expert input and recommendations to leadership on decisions involving company dams and associated capital investments.
  • Lead Aqua’s dam safety program, including engineering evaluations, emergency action plans, operation & maintenance plans, SOP development, training, and response.
  • Direct studies of technical, environmental, and economic feasibility, engineering field studies, and dam design and safety studies.
  • Provide technical direction for contracts and specifications related to dam safety and construction services.
  • Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and effective communication to senior leadership.
  • Develop engineering staff through professional development and capacity building.
  • Represent the company before regulatory agencies and provide professional testimony as needed.
Qualifications
  • Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Civil engineering preferred).
  • 4+ years of relevant experience, Dam Safety preferred.
  • PA Professional Engineer (P.E.) certification, or ability to obtain within 12 months.
  • Valid Pennsylvania driver’s license; ability to operate company vehicle.
  • Strong knowledge of water retention facilities, contract administration, construction technology, regulatory developments, and industry trends.
  • Proficient quantitative, analytical, and problem‑solving skills.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication; effective interpersonal skills.
  • Leadership and stakeholder engagement capabilities.
  • Financial analysis skills, including budget management and basic accounting.
  • Willingness to foster relationships with regulatory authorities.
Travel & Working Conditions
  • Frequent travel across Pennsylvania; up to 25% of the workweek may involve overnight stays.
  • Field‑based work; significant on‑site time at project sites.
  • Occasional lifting of up to 20 pounds.
Benefits and Compensation

Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits, including health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Aqua is an equal opportunity employer and provides reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities. Discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, pregnancy, disability, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other characteristic protected by law is prohibited.

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