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Drainage Design Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Consor Engineers

Drainage Design Engineer

Dallas, TX · Hybrid

As a Drainage Design Engineer, you'll apply hydrologic and hydraulic engineering principles to support the design and analysis of drainage systems for transportation projects. Under the guidance of ...

Consor Engineers

Drainage Design Engineer

Dallas, TX · Hybrid

As a Drainage Design Engineer, you'll apply hydrologic and hydraulic engineering principles to support the design and analysis of drainage systems for transportation projects. Under the guidance of ...

Consor Engineers

Drainage Design Engineer

Dallas, TX · On-site

As a Drainage Design Engineer, you'll apply hydrologic and hydraulic engineering principles to support the design and analysis of drainage systems for transportation projects. Under the guidance of ...

Consor Engineers

Drainage Design Engineer

Dallas, TX · Hybrid

As a Drainage Design Engineer, you'll apply hydrologic and hydraulic engineering principles to support the design and analysis of drainage systems for transportation projects. Under the guidance of ...

Kimley-Horn

Drainage Engineer

Saint Petersburg, FL

Prepare drainage design documentation, plans production, and permitting for a wide range of roadway design projects including turn lanes, intersection and safety improvements, roundabouts, roadway ...

Kimley-Horn

Drainage Engineer

Saint Petersburg, FL · On-site

Prepare drainage design documentation, plans production, and permitting for a wide range of roadway design projects including turn lanes, intersection and safety improvements, roundabouts, roadway ...

Kimley-Horn

Drainage Engineer

Tampa, FL · On-site

Prepare drainage design documentation, plans production, and permitting for a wide range of roadway design projects including turn lanes, intersection and safety improvements, roundabouts, roadway ...

Kimley-Horn

Drainage Engineer

Saint Petersburg, FL · On-site

Prepare drainage design documentation, plans production, and permitting for a wide range of roadway design projects including turn lanes, intersection and safety improvements, roundabouts, roadway ...

Kimley-Horn

Drainage Engineer

Saint Petersburg, FL

Prepare drainage design documentation, plans production, and permitting for a wide range of roadway design projects including turn lanes, intersection and safety improvements, roundabouts, roadway ...

Kimley-Horn

Drainage Engineer

Saint Petersburg, FL

Prepare drainage design documentation, plans production, and permitting for a wide range of roadway design projects including turn lanes, intersection and safety improvements, roundabouts, roadway ...

Kimley-Horn

Drainage Engineer

Tampa, FL · On-site

Prepare drainage design documentation, plans production, and permitting for a wide range of roadway design projects including turn lanes, intersection and safety improvements, roundabouts, roadway ...

Kimley-Horn

Roadway Drainage Engineer

Tampa, FL · On-site

Prepare drainage design documentation, plans production, and permitting for a wide range of roadway design projects including turn lanes, intersection and safety improvements, roundabouts, roadway ...

New

Kimley-Horn

Roadway Drainage Engineer

Tampa, FL · On-site

Prepare drainage design documentation, plans production, and permitting for a wide range of roadway design projects including turn lanes, intersection and safety improvements, roundabouts, roadway ...

New

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Drainage Design information

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$52.5K

$96.9K

$130K

How much do drainage design jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for drainage design in the United States is $96,894.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $84,500.00 and $110,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a drainage engineer called?

A drainage engineer is a professional responsible for designing and managing drainage systems to prevent flooding and ensure proper water flow. They often work with civil engineers, use specialized software, and may require certifications in civil or environmental engineering.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Drainage Design Engineer, and why are they important?

To excel as a Drainage Design Engineer, you need a solid background in civil engineering principles, hydrology, and stormwater management, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree and professional licensure (such as PE or EIT). Familiarity with design software like AutoCAD Civil 3D, MicroDrainage, and GIS systems is crucial for creating effective drainage solutions. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and clear communication are vital soft skills for collaborating with multidisciplinary teams and stakeholders. These skills ensure that drainage systems are safe, compliant, and efficient, reducing flood risks and supporting sustainable infrastructure.

How much do drainage engineers make in the US?

Drainage engineers in the US typically earn a median annual salary of around $70,000 to $90,000, depending on experience, education, and location. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced professionals with specialized skills or certifications can earn over $100,000 annually.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can earn $500,000 or more annually, often through a combination of base salary, bonuses, and stock options. Achieving this level typically requires extensive experience, advanced skills, and working in high-demand industries or leadership roles.

What is the difference between Drainage Design vs Civil Engineering?

AspectDrainage DesignCivil Engineering
CredentialsEngineering degree, possibly specialized in hydraulics or water resourcesEngineering degree, often with a focus on civil or environmental engineering
Work EnvironmentDesign offices, construction sites, field surveysDesign offices, construction sites, infrastructure projects
Industry UsageSpecifically in water management, stormwater, and drainage systemsBroad industry scope including transportation, water, and structural projects

Drainage Design focuses specifically on creating systems for managing water runoff and stormwater, often within civil projects. Civil Engineering covers a wider range of infrastructure projects, including roads, bridges, and water systems, with drainage being one specialized area within the field.

What are the typical challenges faced by professionals in Drainage Design roles, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Drainage Design often encounter challenges such as adapting designs to varying site conditions, ensuring compliance with evolving environmental regulations, and coordinating with multidisciplinary teams. Managing stormwater runoff effectively while minimizing environmental impact requires both technical expertise and creative problem-solving. To address these challenges, staying updated on industry standards, leveraging advanced modeling software, and fostering strong communication with civil engineers, architects, and local authorities are essential.

How much does drainage pay?

Drainage design professionals, such as civil engineers specializing in drainage, typically earn salaries ranging from $50,000 to $90,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced engineers or those with advanced skills can earn higher wages, especially in urban or high-demand areas.

What is drainage design?

Drainage design is the process of planning and creating systems to manage and direct the flow of surface and subsurface water, such as rainwater or runoff, to prevent flooding and erosion. It involves analyzing land topography, soil types, rainfall patterns, and environmental impacts to develop effective drainage solutions for roads, buildings, and other infrastructure. Proper drainage design helps protect property, maintain public safety, and ensure environmental sustainability.
More about Drainage Design jobs
What job categories do people searching Drainage Design jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Drainage Design jobs are:
Drainage Design jobs near you
Infographic showing various Drainage Design job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 86% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $96,894 per year, or $46.6 per hour.
Drainage Design Engineer

Drainage Design Engineer

Resource International, Inc

Columbus, OH • On-site

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

Job description

Senior Drainage Design Engineer
About Us
Resource International, Inc. (Rii) offers a broad range of services including planning, civil engineering design, program and construction management, technology services, and more. Established in 1941, Rii employs more than 200 engineers and professionals throughout the Midwest. Our corporate office is located in Columbus, Ohio with full-service branch offices in Cleveland, Cincinnati, and Indianapolis.
If you want to join a team of dedicated professionals who are among the best in their field, in a diverse work environment, then please explore Resource International's career possibilities. To learn more about our firm, please visit our website at www.resourceinternational.com.
Summary
We are seeking a seasoned Drainage Design Engineer to join our Columbus, Ohio team. This role is ideally suited for a licensed professional engineer with extensive experience in hydraulic and hydrologic analysis, stormwater management, transportation drainage, and regulatory permitting. The successful candidate will lead complex design projects, mentor junior staff, and serve as a key technical resource for clients and regulatory agencies.
What you do
  • Lead hydraulic and hydrologic design for transportation (highway/freeway), municipal, and private development projects
  • Perform HEC-RAS floodplain analyses, detention pond design, and stormwater quantity/quality calculations
  • Design roadway drainage systems including ditches, conduits, catch basins, culverts, and closed storm sewer systems using ODOT CDSS, ODOT HYDRA, and similar tools
  • Prepare and coordinate regulatory permit applications, including USACE Section 404/401 permits, ODNR, and OEPA submissions
  • Develop Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plans (SWPPPs) and Erosion & Sediment Control Plans in compliance with Federal, State, and local regulations
  • Ensure designs comply with the City of Columbus Stormwater Drainage Manual and applicable municipal standards
  • Serve as Lead Engineer on stormwater management projects, overseeing coordination among staff engineers, technicians, and sub-consultants
  • Manage utility coordination for drainage-related improvements
  • Perform field surveys and site assessments to support design and permitting activities
  • Prepare technical reports, specifications, and construction documents
  • Provide quality control review on hydraulic and hydrologic submissions
  • Advise project teams on FEMA floodplain compliance requirements

What you bring
  • Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering or related discipline from an accredited university
  • Professional Engineer (PE) license, Ohio registration required (or ability to obtain reciprocity promptly)
  • Minimum 10 years of progressive experience in hydraulic/hydrologic design and stormwater engineering
  • Demonstrated proficiency with ODOT CDSS, ODOT HYDRA, HEC-RAS, SEDCAD, and MicroStation or AutoCAD
  • Prefer working knowledge of the City of Columbus Stormwater Drainage Manual and ODNR Rainwater & Land Development Manual
  • Experience with USACE regulatory permitting and Federal Clean Water Act compliance
  • Strong technical writing skills with ability to produce clear, well-organized reports and permit applications

Recruitment Agency Statement: Resource International Inc. (Rii) does not accept solicitation from Third Party Recruiters for any position and are not responsible for any fees associated with unsolicited resumes. No emails or calls.

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