ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Drainage Engineer Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

EMCS, Inc.

Civil Engineer - Drainage

Wausau, WI · On-site

We are seeking a civil engineer with drainage experience to join our Wausau, WI team and be an integral contributor for the design and delivery of a variety of transportation and site development ...

EMCS, Inc.

Civil Engineer - Drainage

Wausau, WI

We are seeking a civil engineer with drainage experience to join our Wausau, WI team and be an integral contributor for the design and delivery of a variety of transportation and site development ...

Paragon Associates

Civil Engineer

La Crosse, WI · On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

Civil Engineer - Paragon Associates Paragon Associates is seeking a Civil Engineer to join their ... Prepare and review full plan sets including grading, drainage, and utility design * Manage and ...

Paragon Associates

Civil Engineer

La Crosse, WI · On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

Civil Engineer - Paragon Associates Paragon Associates is seeking a Civil Engineer to join their ... Prepare and review full plan sets including grading, drainage, and utility design * Manage and ...

Dashiell Corportaion

Site Civil Engineer

Madison, WI

Apply engineering application software for the design of site grading, drainage, and site surveys. * Perform engineering and design functions as necessary to meet project schedules. * Communicate and ...

Dashiell

Site Civil Engineer

Madison, WI · On-site

Apply engineering application software for the design of site grading, drainage, and site surveys. * Perform engineering and design functions as necessary to meet project schedules. * Communicate and ...

GRAEF

Civil Engineer P3

Madison, WI · On-site

Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering ... Minimum of 3 years of design experience in site development, grading, drainage, storm water ...

Foth

Lead Water Resources Engineer

Milwaukee, WI

$130K - $160K/yr

Conduct hydrologic and hydraulic analysis, drainage channel design, erosion and sediment control ... Professional Engineer (PE) License * Minimum of 10 years of experience with water resources as a ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsDrainage Engineer JobsDrainage Engineer Jobs in Wisconsin

Drainage Engineer information

See Wisconsin salary details

$53K

$97.8K

$131.2K

How much do drainage engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for drainage engineer in Wisconsin is $97,801.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $85,300.00 and $111,000.00 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 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.

Are drainage engineers in demand?

Drainage engineers are in demand due to ongoing infrastructure projects, urban development, and the need for water management solutions. The role often requires knowledge of hydraulic modeling, environmental regulations, and specialized tools, making it a stable career choice in the engineering field.

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.
More about Drainage Engineer jobs
What are popular job titles related to Drainage Engineer jobs in Wisconsin? For Drainage Engineer jobs in Wisconsin, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Drainage Engineer jobs in Wisconsin look for? The top searched job categories for Drainage Engineer jobs in Wisconsin are:
What are popular job titles related to Drainage Engineer jobs in WI? For Drainage Engineer jobs in WI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Drainage Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Drainage Engineer job openings in Wisconsin as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $97,801 per year, or $47 per hour.

Transportation Drainage Engineer/Project Manager

Northern Impact

Milwaukee, WI • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 25 days ago

Job description

Overview
National Award-Winning Engineering Firm is seeking a highly motivated Transportation Drainage Engineer/Project Manager to join their Milwaukee area team. They are looking for a technically capable engineer/manager who can develop relationships and continue to grow their company. Candidates will lead drainage design and plan production teams to successfully deliver roadway, structural, infrastructure, and transportation projects. Candidates should have experience working on transportation projects in Wisconsin, preferably for WisDOT. AutoCAD and Civil3D knowledge is ideal.
The company has developed a mentor-mentee culture that allows them to share their experiences with one another, and in return, they can all grow personally and professionally. Where you have shortcomings, others in the company may have strengths. Keep that in mind as you read through their preferred additional qualifications below. They see value in anything you can bring to the table; even if it's something other than what they have listed here.
Responsibilities
  • Leading a team of engineers and drafters
  • Interacting and communicating effectively with team members, clients, and other agencies
  • Coordinating with subconsultants
  • Directing and training staff on project engineering (drainage, roadway, 3D models)
  • Preparing project design and environmental reports
  • Assisting with the preparation of proposals and contracts
  • Managing project financials
  • Participating in quality control/quality assurance
  • Developing Client Relationships

Requirements
  • Bachelor's Degree in Civil Engineering
  • PE license required (Wisconsin), or ability to obtain in 6 months
  • 5-15+ years of progressive experience in transportation design
  • Familiarity with Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) design engineering practices, standards, and documentation
  • Experience with AutoCAD, Civil 3D, Microsoft Office, Bluebeam
  • Ability to collaborate with the design team, clients, and agencies
  • Good decision-making skills, flexibility, focus on quality, and attention to detail
  • Excellent communication skills

Apply