ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Drainage Design Engineer 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

Petersburg, Florida (FL) office is seeking a Civil Engineer familiar with FDOT design criteria and ... Prepare drainage design documentation, plans production, and permitting for a wide range of roadway ...

Kimley-Horn

Drainage Engineer

Saint Petersburg, FL · On-site

Petersburg, Florida (FL) office is seeking a Civil Engineer familiar with FDOT design criteria and ... Prepare drainage design documentation, plans production, and permitting for a wide range of roadway ...

Kimley-Horn

Drainage Engineer

Tampa, FL · On-site

Overview Kimley-Horn's Tampa office is seeking a Civil Engineer familiar with FDOT design criteria ... Prepare drainage design documentation, plans production, and permitting for a wide range of roadway ...

Kimley-Horn

Drainage Engineer

Saint Petersburg, FL · On-site

Petersburg, Florida (FL) office is seeking a Civil Engineer familiar with FDOT design criteria and ... Prepare drainage design documentation, plans production, and permitting for a wide range of roadway ...

Kimley-Horn

Drainage Engineer

Saint Petersburg, FL

Petersburg, Florida (FL) office is seeking a Civil Engineer familiar with FDOT design criteria and ... Prepare drainage design documentation, plans production, and permitting for a wide range of roadway ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsDrainage Design Engineer Jobs

Drainage Design Engineer information

See salary details

$52.5K

$96.9K

$130K

How much do drainage design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for drainage design engineer 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 the difference between Drainage Design Engineer vs Civil Engineer?

AspectDrainage Design EngineerCivil Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Civil Engineering, drainage certificationsBachelor's in Civil Engineering, often with broader licensure
Work EnvironmentDesign firms, construction sites, urban planningConstruction sites, infrastructure projects, consulting firms
Industry UsageSpecializes in drainage systems, stormwater managementEncompasses all civil infrastructure including drainage

Drainage Design Engineers focus specifically on designing drainage and stormwater systems, requiring specialized knowledge and certifications. Civil Engineers have a broader scope, covering various infrastructure projects, including drainage. Both roles often work together but differ in specialization and project focus.

Can you make $500,000 as a civil engineer?

Drainage Design Engineers, a specialized civil engineering role, typically earn salaries ranging from $70,000 to $130,000 annually, with top earners in senior positions or in high-cost areas potentially reaching higher incomes. Achieving a $500,000 salary usually requires extensive experience, advanced certifications, management responsibilities, or working in lucrative consulting or infrastructure projects.

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 often leadership roles or executive positions within the industry.

What are some common challenges a Drainage Design Engineer faces when working on urban infrastructure projects?

Drainage Design Engineers often encounter challenges such as limited space for drainage systems, managing stormwater runoff in densely built environments, and ensuring compliance with local regulations and sustainability goals. They must also coordinate closely with other engineering disciplines, utilities, and municipal stakeholders to integrate drainage solutions without disrupting existing infrastructure. Balancing technical requirements with project budgets and timelines is a frequent aspect of the role.

What are Drainage Design Engineers?

Drainage Design Engineers are civil engineers who specialize in designing systems to manage surface and stormwater runoff, ensuring proper drainage for roads, buildings, and other infrastructure. They analyze rainfall patterns, soil types, and land slopes to create effective water management solutions that prevent flooding and erosion. Their work involves using computer modeling, preparing technical reports, and collaborating with other professionals to comply with environmental and safety regulations. Drainage Design Engineers play a crucial role in sustainable urban development and infrastructure resilience.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and leadership roles. High-level positions often require advanced degrees, certifications, and working in high-demand industries or management positions.

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

To thrive 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). Proficiency in design software like AutoCAD Civil 3D, MicroDrainage, and GIS systems is essential for creating accurate drainage plans. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for collaborating with multidisciplinary teams and stakeholders. These skills ensure the safe, efficient, and sustainable design of drainage solutions that meet regulatory and environmental standards.

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, location, and education. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced professionals with certifications can earn over $100,000 annually. Salaries are often complemented by benefits such as health insurance and retirement plans.
More about Drainage Design Engineer jobs
What job categories do people searching Drainage Design Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Drainage Design Engineer jobs are:
Drainage Design Engineer jobs near you
Drainage Design Engineer

Drainage Design Engineer

Resource International, Inc

Columbus, OH • On-site

Full-time

Posted yesterday

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.

Apply