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Dam Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

GEI Consultants

DWR Project Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site +1

$36.06 - $55.76/hr

Dam safety and special topic inspections alongside seasoned DWR staff * Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) and California Division of Safety of Dams (DSOD) engineering guidelines, annual ...

CDM Smith

Geotechnical Engineer 5

Sacramento, CA

This role is centered on dam safety, flood-risk reduction, and delivery of complex, meaningful ... Provides construction-phase engineering support including RFI evaluation, submittal review, field ...

CDM Smith

Geotechnical Engineer 5

Sacramento, CA · On-site

With general direction, performs and leads engineering for dams, levees, embankments, spillways ... This role is centered on dam safety, flood-risk reduction, and delivery of complex, meaningful ...

AECOM

Geotechnical Engineer

Oakland, CA · On-site

Execute liquefaction triggering assessment for dam projects, lateral earth pressure, and bearing ... Engineering Geology * Numerical Modelling in Geomechanics * GeoEngineering Testing and Design

AECOM

Geotechnical Engineer

Oakland, CA

Execute liquefaction triggering assessment for dam projects, lateral earth pressure, and bearing ... Engineering Geology * Numerical Modelling in Geomechanics * GeoEngineering Testing and Design

AECOM

Geotechnical Engineer

Oakland, CA · On-site

Execute liquefaction triggering assessment for dam projects, lateral earth pressure, and bearing ... Engineering Geology * Numerical Modelling in Geomechanics * GeoEngineering Testing and Design

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Dam Engineer information

See California salary details

$22.5K

$99.1K

$141K

How much do dam engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for dam engineer in California is $99,114.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $93,516.00 and $112,611.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a dam engineer do?

A Dam Engineer is responsible for the design, construction, maintenance, and safety of dams and related structures. They analyze hydrological and geological data to ensure structural integrity and environmental compliance. Their duties also include monitoring dam performance, conducting risk assessments, and implementing necessary repairs or upgrades. Dam Engineers work closely with government agencies, environmental specialists, and construction teams to ensure water resource management and public safety.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a dam engineer?

To thrive as a Dam Engineer, you need a strong background in civil engineering, hydrology, and structural analysis, typically supported by a bachelor's or master's degree in engineering and relevant licensure such as a Professional Engineer (PE) certification. Proficiency in specialized software like AutoCAD, Civil 3D, and hydraulic modeling tools, as well as understanding of dam safety guidelines and inspection procedures, is essential. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are vital soft skills for project success and team collaboration. These competencies are crucial to ensure the safety, regulatory compliance, and operational reliability of dam structures.

What are the most commonly searched types of Dam Engineer jobs in California?

The most popular types of Dam Engineer jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Dam Engineer jobs in California?

For Dam Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Dam Engineer jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Dam Engineer jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Dam Engineer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Dam Engineer job openings:

Dam Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Dam Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $99,114 per year, or $47.7 per hour.

DWR Project Engineer

GEI Consultants

San Diego, CA • On-site, Remote

$36.06 - $55.76/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 12 days ago

GEI Consultants rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

286th of 449 rated engineering

Job description

Description

Your role at GEI. 
 
GEI’s West Region is seeking a motivated, project level engineer to work with one of GEI’s premier clients, the California Department of Water Resources (DWR) – Operations and Maintenance Division.  This position will allow you to work as embedded staff with DWR where you will be exposed to and develop expertise in the following areas:  
  • DWR’s Southern Field Division facilities, including Pyramid Dam, Warne Powerplant, Castaic Dam, Cedar Springs Dam, Devil Canyon Second Afterbay, Crafton Hills Dams and Perris Dam   
  • Dam safety and special topic inspections alongside seasoned DWR staff 
  • Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) and California Division of Safety of Dams (DSOD) engineering guidelines, annual reporting, and inspections 
  • Dam Safety Risk Assessment, Potential Failure Mode Analyses and Level 2 Risk Assessment
  • FERC Part12D and DSOD Dam Safety Review Board meetings and process   
The ideal candidate for this position will build upon their specific technical skills and expand their knowledge in other areas that could cover geologic, geotechnical, hydraulic, hydrologic, structural, mechanical, electrical, instrumentation, and operations from a dam safety perspective.  Additionally, you will build strong project management skills while engaging and supporting key decision makers to ensure the continued performance of the DWR’s State Water Project.   
 
This position requires a full-time dedication to GEI’s Support Staff role, with up to 50% of your time working in DWR’s Sacramento office.  Remote working is possible after an initial period.  Assignments are typically 1-2 years, after which the skills developed in the assignment will enable you to transition into a project management or technical position with other key GEI clients.     
 
Essential Responsibilities & Duties 
  • Support project managers and technical leads in engineering projects and tasks regarding dam safety items associated with hydropower infrastructure including conveyance (pipelines, canals, penstocks, pump stations, and tunnels), bridge facilities; instrumentation, geotechnical investigations, annual FERC/DSOD inspections, and engineering consultant coordination and oversight  
  • Prepare technical scopes of work for proposals and projects, project budgets, requests for proposals for contractors, and technical reports 
  • Perform engineering evaluations related to water resource facilities   
  • Provide effective leadership role in proposal teams and presentations 
  • Participate in multi-disciplinary, multi-geographic project teams 
  • Maintain high visibility in the marketplace through regular client contact, participation in client-based professional organizations, and attendance and presentations at industry events 
  • Manage assigned projects and staff 
  • Assist in recruiting and training additional staff 
  • This position has a field component; travel and some overnight travel is required 
Minimum Qualifications 
  • Minimum of B.S. degree in Civil, Geotechnical, Structural or other related engineering disciplines; M.S. preferred 
  • 6-8 years of previous professional experience in geotechnical, structural, or civil engineering; project management experience, including proposal preparation and budgeting support; understanding knowledge of state and federal regulations 
  • Willingness and ability to travel on short-term assignments as needed 
  • Willingness and ability to perform field tasks and oversight 
  • Valid U.S. driver’s license 
  • Professional Engineering license required; California license preferred 
We are GEI. 
 
Some of the world’s most pressing problems – from climate change to sustainable development, to critical infrastructure and the future of our energy supply – need our brightest and diverse minds working together to create safer, more resilient communities for tomorrow.  
 
We are technical experts, collaborators, and entrepreneurs who draw from diverse backgrounds to solve our clients’ most complex challenges.  
 
With several offices across North America, we offer a range of engineering, science, and technical consulting services. Our range of expertise, project types, and culture make us the choice for top talent in the AEC industry. See all our office locations here.
 
Employee-owned. Employee-focused.  
 
As an employee-owned company, our employees support our flat leadership structure, have a say in how our business operates and benefit from our financial success. We are committed to employee growth with career development opportunities, competitive total rewards, a well-being program, flexible work arrangements and more.  Our company culture is driven by our 4 Cs – we are Client-Centered, Curious, Collaborative, and Community Minded – which support our focus on sustainability, safety, diversity, equity and inclusion. Get to know us better by visiting GEI’s career site here.
 
GEI’s Total Rewards Package Includes 
  • Market-Competitive Compensation, including Eligibility for an Annual Performance Bonus
  • Pay Range For This Position: $36.06-55.76/hourly
  • Comprehensive Benefits Program, including Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Disability and More
  • Well-Being Program and Paid Parental Leave
  • Commuter Benefits
  • Hybrid Work Schedules and Cell Phone Stipends
  • GEI University (GEIU) with Continuing Education Assistance and Tuition Reimbursement
  • Connecting Conversation Program with a Focus on Professional Development and Opportunities for Advancement
  • Support and Financial Rewards for Publication Awards, Professional Dues, and Professional Licenses
  • Paid Holidays and Generous Paid Time Off Program
  • Rewards and Recognition
  • GEI-Funded Profit Sharing and 401(k)
  • Opportunity to be an Owner and Shareholder (Learn more here)
  • A Vibrant Culture that is Focused on Partnership, Sustainability, Giving Back to Our Communities and Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
  • And More…

 PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS 

      WORK ENVIRONMENT  
  
  
  
Functional Demands:    
 
 
 
 
Sedentary
X 
Light
 
Medium
Other
 
 
Activity Level Throughout Workday (check one per row) 
Physical Activity Requirements
Occasional
(0-35% of day)
Frequent
(33-66% of day)
Continuous
(67-100% of day)
Not Applicable
Sitting
 
 
X 
 
Standing
X 
 
 
 
Walking
X 
 
 
 
Climbing
 
 
 
X 
Lifting (floor to waist level) (in pounds)
 
 
 
X 
Lifting (waist level and above) (in pounds)
 
 
 
X 
Carrying objects
 
 
 
X 
Push/pull
 
 
 
X 
Twisting
 
 
 
X 
Bending
X 
 
 
 
Reaching forward
X 
 
 
 
Reaching overhead
 
 
 
X 
Squat/kneel/crawl
 
 
 
X 
Wrist position deviation
X 
 
 
 
Pinching/fine motor skills
X 
 
 
 
Keyboard use/repetitive motion
 
 
X 
 
Taste or smell (taste=never)
 
 
 
X 
Talk or hear
 
X 
 
 
Accurate 20/40 
Very Accurate 20/20 
Not Applicable
Near Vision
 
X 
Far Vision
X 

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