1

Dam Design Engineers Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... engineers. Job Responsibilities: * Perform the following structural engineering tasks: * Perform ... Collaborate with other design disciplines and CAD designers on complex dam and related ...

Senior Dam Safety Engineer

Austin, TX · On-site

$103K - $142K/yr

Schnabel is an ENR Top 500 Design Firm with 700+ employees in 31 offices throughout the United ... Supervise and mentor junior engineers. * Work as a team member within the Austin or Dallas offices ...

Adobe AEM Technical Architect

Austin, TX · Remote

$206K/yr

... DAM) * Design scalable, high-performance digital experiences for retail/eCommerce use cases ... Adobe certifications (AEM Architect / Developer) * Experience in large-scale retail digital ...

Dam Safety Engineer

Marquette, MI · On-site

$85K - $120K/yr

Design tasks might include CAD work related to dam modifications and construction. Example analyses ... Civil and dam engineering design experience, including development of design drawings ...

Dam Safety Engineer

Marquette, MI · On-site +1

$85K - $120K/yr

Design tasks might include CAD work related to dam modifications and construction. Example analyses ... Civil and dam engineering design experience, including development of design drawings ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Dam Design Engineers information

See salary details

$40.5K

$88.2K

$158.5K

How much do dam design engineers jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for dam design engineers in the United States is $88,150.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $68,000.00 and $98,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Dam Design Engineers?

Dam Design Engineers are specialized civil engineers who focus on the planning, design, and construction of dams and related hydraulic structures. They assess site conditions, analyze hydrological data, and ensure that dams are structurally sound and meet safety standards. Their work involves selecting appropriate materials, designing spillways, and considering environmental impacts. Dam Design Engineers collaborate with geologists, environmental scientists, and construction teams throughout a project’s lifecycle. Their expertise is crucial for water management, flood control, and hydroelectric power generation.

What are some common challenges Dam Design Engineers face when working on multidisciplinary teams?

Dam Design Engineers often collaborate with geologists, hydrologists, environmental scientists, and construction professionals. One common challenge is ensuring clear communication and coordination across these specialties, as each discipline may have different priorities and technical requirements. Balancing structural safety with environmental and regulatory considerations can require creative problem-solving and adaptability. Proactively addressing these challenges by fostering open communication and regular meetings helps keep projects on track and ensures all perspectives are integrated into the final design.

What is the difference between Dam Design Engineers vs Civil Engineers?

AspectDam Design EngineersCivil Engineers
CredentialsBachelor's in Civil Engineering, PE license often preferredBachelor's in Civil Engineering, PE license often required
Work EnvironmentSpecialized in dam projects, often in remote or construction sitesVaried, including buildings, infrastructure, and projects across multiple sectors
Industry UsagePrimarily in water resources, hydroelectric, and dam constructionBroad industry use including transportation, structural, environmental, and water resources

Dam Design Engineers focus specifically on designing and analyzing dam structures, requiring specialized knowledge in hydraulics and geotechnical engineering. Civil Engineers have a broader scope, working on various infrastructure projects. While both roles require similar credentials, Dam Design Engineers are more specialized in dam-related projects, whereas Civil Engineers work across multiple sectors.

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 principles is essential, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree and professional licensure (e.g., PE). Familiarity with design software such as AutoCAD, Civil 3D, and specialized hydrological modeling tools, as well as knowledge of safety and regulatory standards, is commonly required. Excellent problem-solving, project management, and communication skills help engineers collaborate with multidisciplinary teams and stakeholders. These competencies are crucial to ensure safe, efficient, and compliant dam structures that protect communities and the environment.
More about Dam Design Engineers jobs
What cities are hiring for Dam Design Engineers jobs? Cities with the most Dam Design Engineers job openings:
What states have the most Dam Design Engineers jobs? States with the most job openings for Dam Design Engineers jobs include:
Infographic showing various Dam Design Engineers job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $88,150 per year, or $42.4 per hour.
Mid-Level Structural Engineer

Mid-Level Structural Engineer

Schnabel Inc.

Seattle, WA • On-site

$73K - $110K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 23 days ago


Job description

Schnabel Engineering is an employee-owned, professional consulting firm that focuses on solving problems related to the earth and environment through specialization in dam, geotechnical, geostructural, and tunnel engineering. Schnabel’s high standards for quality, business ethics, and concern for the communities they live in, and support are a vital part of who we are and what we offer. Founded in 1956, Schnabel has experienced tremendous success and growth through its dedication to excellence in client service, high quality, and value-added solutions. Schnabel is an ENR Top 500 Design Firm and Top 10 Dams and Reservoirs Design Firm with over 700+ employees in 31 offices throughout the United States.

Recognized by CE News as one of the Best Engineering Firms to Work for, Schnabel provides employees with a competitive benefits package, including health, dental, life and disability. Engagement in Schnabel’s wellness program offers incentives for employees to pursue a healthy lifestyle, and the firm rewards employees through its Employee Stock Ownership Plan.

Benefit options include:

  • Medical insurance
  • Dental insurance
  • Flexible spending accounts
  • Employee life & ADD insurance (100% company-paid)
  • Short-term disability (100% company-paid)
  • Long-term disability
  • Supplemental life insurance
  • 401(k) and profit-sharing plan
  • Employee stock ownership plan (ESOP)
  • Bonus program
  • Paid time off
  • 9 Paid Holidays
  • Wellness program
  • Professional development and tuition reimbursement

Job Description:

We are seeking a mid-level Civil Engineer with a structural emphasis to join our talented dam engineering team. Our firm is large enough to work on some of the most complex dam sites across North America, yet small enough to remain employee owned and deeply focused on dam engineering as a core practice area. This role offers the opportunity to contribute to the design, analysis and assessment of dams, spillways, gates, and related hydraulic structures while collaborating with a highly skilled, multidisciplinary team including civil, geotechnical, hydraulic, and mechanical engineers.

Job Responsibilities:

  • Perform the following structural engineering tasks:
  • Perform engineering activities throughout all phases of a project lifecycle, including investigation, evaluation, analysis, design, and engineering services during construction on dams and related hydraulics structures.
  • Perform structural analysis and prepare detailed design calculations.
  • Prepare construction drawings and technical specifications.
  • Develop structural models using finite element modeling software (SAP2000, Risa 3D, Staad.PRO, or equivalent).
  • Refer to applicable industry standards and building codes for appropriate loads, analysis procedures, and requirements (ASCE 7, ACI 318, ACI 350, Steel Design Manual, IBC, USACE Manuals, ect.)
  • Assistance with responding to contractor’s submittals and questions during construction.
  • Collaborate with other design disciplines and CAD designers on complex dam and related infrastructure design projects.
  • Occasional travel may be required.
  • Work as a team member within the Seattle office and across other Schnabel offices to effectively balance workload.

Required Skills/Experience:

  • A Bachelor’s Degree in Civil Engineering or other related engineering discipline from an ABET-accredited program
  • 5+ years of relevant work experience in civil engineering; work may consist of geotechnical analysis and design, geologic engineering, engineering geology, or hydrologic/hydraulic analyses, structural engineering, or other related field with specific emphasis in dam design or dam safety
  • Licensed Professional Engineer and the ability to obtain reciprocity
  • Experience in design of dams, spillways, gates, and related hydraulic structures.
  • Knowledge of applicable state and federal dam safety design methodologies, policies, and regulations
  • Experience/proficiency with common computer-aided analysis and modeling programs applicable to dam engineering
  • Experience preparing and reviewing construction drawings and technical specifications
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills
  • A strong work ethic and the desire to perform professionally at a high level
  • Ability to work independently or as part of a team
  • Attention to detail and well-organized
  • Willingness to travel and oversee field work when needed

Preferred Skills/Experience:

  • Master of Science degree in Civil Engineering with a focus in structural engineering.
  • Coursework in finite element analysis.
  • Experience/proficiency with CAD software (AutoCAD, Revit, ect.) and/or experience with finite element analysis software (Risa 3D, Staad.PRO, SAP2000, ect.).
  • Strong communication and client forward personality
  • Experience in construction/project scheduling
  • Experience in cost estimating

The compensation range for this position is between $73,000 to $110,000. Compensation for this position may vary based on geographic location and other factors. We remain committed to providing competitive and equitable compensation to all employees, regardless of their location.