1

Drainage Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Drainage Engineer

Centennial, CO · On-site

$36 - $48/hr

As a Drainage Engineer at Basis Partners, you play an important role in our community's quality of life and safety by supporting transportation drainage projects involving hydrologic and hydraulic ...

Drainage Engineer

Fredericksburg, VA · On-site

$80K - $110K/yr

Drainage Engineer Department: Transportation Employment Type: Full Time Location: Fredericksburg, VA Compensation: $80,000 - $110,000 / year Description Rinker Design Associates (RDA) is seeking a ...

Drainage Engineer

Centennial, CO · On-site

$36 - $48/hr

As a Drainage Engineer at Basis Partners, you play an important role in our community's quality of life and safety by supporting transportation drainage projects involving hydrologic and hydraulic ...

Rinker Design Associates (RDA) is seeking a motivated Drainage Engineer with 2+ years of experience to join our Transportation team. In this role, you'll support the planning, analysis, and design of ...

Drainage Engineer

Las Cruces, NM · On-site

$105K - $125K/yr

Drainage Engineer Department: Community Infrastructure Employment Type: Full Time Location: Las Cruces, NM Compensation: $105,000 - $125,000 / year Description At Horrocks, we believe the best work ...

Drainage Engineer Department: Community Infrastructure Employment Type: Full Time Location: Meridian, ID Description At Horrocks, we believe the best work comes from companies with values, that our ...

Drainage Engineer

Colorado Springs, CO · On-site

$36 - $48/hr

As a Drainage Engineer at Basis Partners, you play an important role in our community's quality of life and safety by supporting transportation drainage projects involving hydrologic and hydraulic ...

Drainage Engineer, EI

Orlando, FL · On-site

$70K - $90K/yr

Drainage Engineer, EI Department: Transportation Employment Type: Full Time Location: Orlando, FL Compensation: $70,000 - $90,000 / year Description If you're a Project Engineer with a Drainage focus ...

Drainage Engineer

Idaho Falls, ID · On-site

$105K - $125K/yr

Drainage Engineer Department: Community Infrastructure Employment Type: Full Time Location: Idaho Falls, ID Compensation: $105,000 - $125,000 / year Description At Horrocks, we believe the best work ...

Drainage Engineer

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$105K - $125K/yr

Drainage Engineer Department: Community Infrastructure Employment Type: Full Time Location: Albuquerque, NM Compensation: $105,000 - $125,000 / year Description At Horrocks, we believe the best work ...

Drainage Engineer

Colorado Springs, CO · On-site

$36 - $48/hr

As a Drainage Engineer at Basis Partners, you play an important role in our community's quality of life and safety by supporting transportation drainage projects involving hydrologic and hydraulic ...

Civil Engineer - Drainage / Stormwater Engineer Company Name: TLP Engineering Consultants Location: Tampa, FL Project Focus: Transportation Infrastructure, Municipal Engineering, Land Development ...

Drainage Engineer

Santa Clarita, CA · On-site

$30 - $45/hr

CRC Enterprises Inc is seeking a experienced Drainage Engineer to join our team in Santa Clarita, CA. In this role, you will be designing projects from the planning phase to final design, with an ...

As a Drainage Engineer with 7-9 years of experience, you will play a key role in the planning, design, and delivery of drainage and stormwater infrastructure projects. This position offers the ...

As a Drainage Engineer with 7-9 years of experience, you will play a key role in the planning, design, and delivery of drainage and stormwater infrastructure projects. This position offers the ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Drainage Engineer information

See salary details

$52.5K

$96.9K

$130K

How much do drainage engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for drainage 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Drainage Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Drainage Engineer, you generally need a degree in civil or environmental engineering, strong analytical skills, and a solid understanding of hydrology and stormwater management. Familiarity with design and modeling software such as AutoCAD, MicroDrainage, or Civil 3D, as well as relevant engineering certifications, is typically required. Strong communication, problem-solving abilities, and attention to detail are essential soft skills for collaborating with stakeholders and ensuring project accuracy. These skills and qualities are crucial for designing effective drainage systems that meet regulatory standards and address environmental and public safety concerns.

What is the role of a drainage engineer?

A drainage engineer designs, plans, and manages systems that control surface and groundwater flow to prevent flooding and erosion. They analyze site conditions, develop drainage solutions, and often use tools like CAD software, requiring knowledge of hydrology and environmental regulations.

What is the difference between Drainage Engineer vs Civil Engineer?

AspectDrainage EngineerCivil Engineer
CredentialsEngineering degree, often specialized in hydraulics or water resourcesEngineering degree, often with civil or structural specialization
Work EnvironmentDesigning drainage systems, flood management, site drainageBroader projects including roads, bridges, buildings, and infrastructure
Industry UsageFocused on water management and drainage solutionsWide range of infrastructure projects, including drainage

Drainage Engineers specialize in designing and managing drainage and water systems, while Civil Engineers work on a broader range of infrastructure projects, including drainage. Both roles require engineering degrees, but Drainage Engineers focus more on water-related systems, making them more specific within the civil engineering field.

What Is a Drainage Engineer?

A drainage engineer is a type of civil engineer responsible for designing, constructing, and maintaining drainage facilities, including wastewater or stormwater management projects or transportation projects. Drainage engineers research climate and environmental factors for the project site, such as flood risks and land erosion, then they design a drainage facility that meets the budget, usage, and aesthetic goals of the municipality. As a drainage engineer, you may also remodel the region’s landscape or improve roadways to create more efficient water flow when it rains; proper systems prevent flooding, conserve water resources, and keep water sources from becoming contaminated. State, county, and local governments typically hire drainage engineers for projects, but you also find drainage engineers in private consulting firms and nonprofit environmental agencies.

What are some common challenges faced by Drainage Engineers when working on urban infrastructure projects?

Drainage Engineers working on urban infrastructure projects often encounter challenges such as managing limited space for new drainage systems, navigating existing utility networks, and ensuring compliance with environmental regulations. Collaborating closely with city planners, utility companies, and construction teams is essential to address these complexities. Additionally, adapting designs to accommodate changing stormwater patterns and mitigating flood risks in densely populated areas are key responsibilities that require innovative problem-solving.

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 certifications, a strong track record, and work in high-demand industries or companies.

What engineers make $500,000?

Highly experienced 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. Senior roles typically require advanced skills, certifications, and extensive industry experience.

What does a Drainage Engineer do?

A Drainage Engineer is responsible for designing, planning, and managing systems that control water runoff and prevent flooding. They work on projects such as stormwater management, sewage systems, and land drainage to ensure water is safely and efficiently diverted away from roads, buildings, and other infrastructures. Their role is crucial in both urban and rural development, helping to protect the environment and maintain public safety.

How much do drainage engineers get paid?

Drainage engineers typically earn a median annual salary ranging from $50,000 to $80,000, depending on experience, location, and level of certification. Senior or specialized drainage engineers can earn higher salaries, especially in urban or high-demand areas, and the role often requires knowledge of drainage systems, CAD software, and relevant safety standards.
What cities are hiring for Drainage Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Drainage Engineer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Drainage Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Drainage Engineer jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for Drainage Engineer jobs? The top employers for Drainage Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Drainage Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Drainage Engineer jobs include:
Infographic showing various Drainage Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $96,894 per year, or $46.6 per hour.

Drainage Engineer

Basis Partners

Centennial, CO • On-site

$36 - $48/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 8 days ago


Job description

📍Location:
Centennial, CO 80112
đź’°Compensation Range:
Compensation range: $36.00-$48.00 per hour. This position is considered non-exempt under FLSA. This is an estimated pay range. Final pay rate will be determined based on internal equity, internal salary ranges, job related skills, experience, qualifications, and market conditions.
POSITION SUMMARY:
As a Drainage Engineer at Basis Partners, you play an important role in our community's quality of life and safety by supporting transportation drainage projects involving hydrologic and hydraulic design and modeling, grading and erosion control design, and water quality design.
You will be part of a collaborative design team responsible for applying and continuing to develop your knowledge of drainage engineering principles, practices, and technical tools. This includes assisting with detailed hydrologic and hydraulic analyses (using various models and methods) and preparing design plans, reports, and technical documents.
You will contribute to projects of varying size and complexity under the guidance of senior engineers and project managers. With increasing experience, you will take on greater responsibility for specific tasks and components of projects.
You will receive technical supervision and mentorship while building your skills, judgment, and professional expertise in drainage design and project delivery.
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential job duty satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential job duties.
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS (DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES)
Supporting hydrologic and hydraulic analysis and design by:

  • Assisting with drainage design for transportation and infrastructure projects under the guidance of senior engineers.
  • Developing and refining hydrologic and hydraulic models using industry-standard software (e.g., HEC-HMS, HEC-RAS, SWMM, HY-8, OpenFlows, StormCAD).
  • Performing engineering calculations related to stormwater runoff, conveyance systems, scour, and floodplain analysis.
  • Analyzing watershed characteristics and evaluating storm drain systems, culverts, detention/retention basins, ditches, and open channels.
  • Conducting alternative analyses and providing technical recommendations based on engineering findings.
  • Evaluating erosion control and water quality considerations in design.
Generating contract deliverables through planning, structuring and organizing drainage tasks by:
  • Preparing drainage reports, stormwater management plans, 1D flow analyses, riverine alignments and profiles, and supporting documentation.
  • Developing plan sheets, specifications, quantity calculations, and cost estimates.
  • Ensuring technical accuracy and completeness of assigned deliverables prior to internal review.
Supporting regulatory compliance and agency coordination by:
  • Assisting with preparation of drainage and stormwater documentation required for approvals.
  • Ensuring designs meet jurisdictional drainage criteria manuals, permitting requirements, and applicable regulatory standards.
Supporting construction phase services and field activities by:
  • Participating in site visits and field investigations to collect data and verify existing conditions.
  • Reviewing project drawings, specifications, and manuals to understand design intent and construction requirements.
  • Assisting with responses to RFIs, reviewing submittals, and supporting resolution of drainage-related field issues.
  • Verifying compliance with applicable specifications and project documents during design and construction.
Collaborating and communicating through the project lifecycle by:
  • Working as part of a multidisciplinary team to deliver drainage-related tasks on schedule and within budget.
  • Communicating project progress, technical findings, and potential issues to the project manager or senior engineer.
  • Participating in internal design reviews and incorporating feedback from senior staff.
  • Assisting in coordination with clients, agencies, and subconsultants.
  • Contributing to technical discussions in meetings and supporting proposal development efforts when applicable.
Maintaining quality standards and professional development by:
  • Maintaining organized project documentation in accordance with company QA/QC standards.
  • Tracking assigned tasks to ensure completion within established budgets and timelines.
  • Pursuing continuing education to stay current with industry standards and evolving regulations.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS/EDUCATION/LICENSURE:
  • 2+ years' experience and highly advanced technical skills in performing drainage design, calculations and plan production
  • B.S. Civil Engineering or Civil Engineering Technology Degree
  • Engineer In Training with the ability to obtain a PE license in Colorado or P.E. licensure in the State of Colorado
  • Experience with local agency and DOT regulations regarding drainage design in closed pipe and open channel systems, including water quality design
  • Experience using Microstation, OpenRoads Designer, HEC-RAS, HEC-HMS, OpenFlows, HY-8, StormCAD, and other software used in analysis and plan production
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS/EDUCATION/LICENSURE:
  • Experience with Mile High Flood District
  • GeoHEC-RAS and SRH-2D
TRAVEL:
  • Occasional travel to job sites, client offices, and other meeting places.
  • Required to have and maintain a valid driver's license, appropriate auto insurance coverage (per Basis Vehicle Policy) and an acceptable driving record.
WORKING CONDITIONS:
Most of the work will be performed in an office environment. Project site visits may be necessary at times and can involve hazards including exposure to changes in temperature (seasonal), inclement weather, dust, fumes, gases, traffic, slope, water, water way, and trains.
Since no job description can detail all the duties and responsibilities that may be required, this job description is not to be interpreted to describe all the duties and responsibilities the incumbent may be required to perform. As such, this job description is subject to review and change at any time, with or without notice.
About Us:
Basis Partners is a Colorado-based, people, team, and locally focused civil engineering consulting firm providing services to public agencies in the transportation industry.
We are a consulting firm that is a sharp contrast to our competitors. Sure, we do the same work, but we are different from the rest in the way we handle projects, build cohesiveness, energy, skills, and local pride.
It is firmly believed that if you place people first something remarkable will happen. It creates a community of fun, passionate individuals who help make their communities better, safer places to live.
At Basis Partners, on day one, you will be doing work that matters alongside other talented and collaborative team members while building the foundation of your career through practical and hands on experience, coaching, mentoring, and training.
It's in our core to care for our community, our team, and our clients. Helping with the infrastructure of our community is a source of pride for our team. We can drive down a road, interstate, or cross a bridge and say, 'Wow, I was on a team that helped with that project!
Our team lives and works here and we want to make sure we give back to the communities we serve by volunteering and supporting local organizations. We love to 'keep it local'!
Check us out on social media and our website to learn more about us.
Website www.basisp.com
Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn & Twitter
Benefit Summary:
  • 401(k) with employer match (Roth and Traditional options)
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • Health savings account with employer contributions
  • Dependent care flexible spending account
  • Disability insurance (short term and long term)
  • Company-paid life insurance with buy up provision
  • Paid time off (PTO and Holiday)
  • Parental leave (pregnancy and parental)
  • Training and career progression to support and encourage you throughout the different stages of your career goals