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Entry Level Coastal Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

M&J Engineering

Inspector Trainees

Rockville, MD · On-site

... port, marine/coastal, environmental engineering, and design-build services for both new ... In this entry-level role, you will receive training and guidance to learn how to perform ...

M&J Engineering

Inspector Trainees

Rockville, MD

... port, marine/coastal, environmental engineering, and design-build services for both new ... In this entry-level role, you will receive training and guidance to learn how to perform ...

M&J Engineering

Inspector Trainees

Rockville, MD · On-site

... port, marine/coastal, environmental engineering, and design-build services for both new ... In this entry-level role, you will receive training and guidance to learn how to perform ...

The Beach Company

CAD Technician

Charleston, SC · On-site

... coastal Georgia. We build high-quality projects alongside the very best subcontractors while ... an entry level CAD Technician to support our civil sitework operations by converting engineered ...

Gulf Stream

CAD Technician

Charleston, SC · On-site

... coastal Georgia. We build high-quality projects alongside the very best subcontractors while ... an entry level CAD Technician to support our civil sitework operations by converting engineered ...

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TYPSA INC

Environmental Planner I

Irvine, CA · On-site

$35 - $45/hr

... Coastal Commission compliance, State and Federal Resource Agency permits, agency access and ... Reviewing project engineering drawings and providing environmental input when needed. * Assist with ...

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All JobsEntry Level Coastal Engineer Jobs

Entry Level Coastal Engineer information

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$30K

$69.4K

$118K

How much do entry level coastal engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level coastal engineer in the United States is $69,362.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,500.00 and $78,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What types of projects do entry level coastal engineers typically work on, and how do they collaborate with other team members?

As an entry level coastal engineer, you can expect to work on projects such as shoreline protection, beach nourishment, erosion control, and the design of coastal infrastructure like seawalls and breakwaters. Your role often involves assisting with site assessments, data collection, modeling coastal processes, and preparing technical reports. You’ll collaborate closely with senior engineers, environmental scientists, and CAD technicians, contributing to project planning meetings and fieldwork. This collaborative environment provides valuable hands-on experience and mentoring, setting a strong foundation for career growth in coastal engineering.

What is the difference between Entry Level Coastal Engineer vs Entry Level Environmental Engineer?

AspectEntry Level Coastal EngineerEntry Level Environmental Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Civil, Coastal, or Environmental Engineering; EIT/FE examBachelor's in Environmental, Civil, or Chemical Engineering; EIT/FE exam
Work EnvironmentCoastal projects, shoreline protection, water resourcesEnvironmental impact assessments, pollution control, sustainability projects
Employer & Industry UsageEngineering firms, government agencies, consultingEnvironmental agencies, consulting firms, industry

Entry Level Coastal Engineers focus on shoreline and water resource projects, requiring similar credentials as Entry Level Environmental Engineers. While both roles involve environmental considerations, coastal engineers specialize in coastal processes and shoreline protection, whereas environmental engineers address broader environmental issues like pollution and sustainability. Both roles are common in engineering firms and government agencies, making them closely related career paths for entry-level candidates.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Coastal Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Coastal Engineer, a solid background in civil or environmental engineering, with knowledge of coastal processes and a relevant engineering degree, is essential. Familiarity with modeling software (such as HEC-RAS, MIKE21, or AutoCAD), GIS tools, and possibly EIT certification is typically required. Critical thinking, problem-solving, and strong communication skills help individuals collaborate effectively and adapt to project demands. These skills ensure accurate project analysis, effective teamwork, and the successful design of resilient coastal infrastructure.

What does an entry level coastal engineer do?

An entry level coastal engineer assists in the planning, design, and construction of projects that help protect and manage coastal areas, such as beaches, harbors, and shoreline structures. Their work often involves tasks like data collection, site assessments, computer modeling, and preparing technical reports under the supervision of senior engineers. They help address issues like coastal erosion, flood risk, and habitat protection, using both engineering principles and environmental science.
More about Entry Level Coastal Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Coastal Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Coastal Engineer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Coastal Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Coastal Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Entry Level Coastal Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Coastal Engineer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Coastal Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Coastal Engineer jobs are:
Entry Level Coastal Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Coastal Engineer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 74% Full Time, and 26% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $69,362 per year, or $33.3 per hour.
Early Professional, Water Resources Engineering

Early Professional, Water Resources Engineering

WSP

Virginia Beach, VA

$70K - $96K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 8 days ago

WSP rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 67 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

15th of 58 rated business consultants

Job description

WSP is seeking a dedicated Early Career Water Resources Engineer for its Virginia Beach, VA office. The selected candidate will participate in projects with the VA Water Team, contributing to an expanding organization that addresses client objectives and provides effective solutions to unique coastal challenges.  Through our projects, you'll have the opportunity to participate in flood mitigation strategies, design green infrastructure, and support community resilience to climate change. The dynamic nature of our work means every project presents unique technical challenges and the chance to make a tangible difference by preserving water quality and preventing environmental degradation. Joining our team means being at the forefront of stormwater innovation, where your contributions help shape a healthier, more sustainable world.

This Opportunity

Takes part in providing local technical assistance for the analysis, development, and design of processes and infrastructure relating to stormwater facilities, culverts, hydrology, open channel hydraulics, roadway drainage, bridge hydraulics, floodplain modeling/mapping, hydrologic/hydraulic modeling, river/stream/habitat restoration, pollution control and treatment, and preserving the quality of the environment by averting the contamination and degradation of water resources.

Your Impact

  • Work collaboratively as part of a multi-discipline team of engineers to execute project work.

  • Assist with performing basic professional water resources engineering work relating to stormwater management, water quality, stormwater facilities, culverts, hydrology, open channel hydraulics, bridge hydraulics, floodplain modeling/mapping, hydrologic/hydraulic modeling, river/stream/habitat restoration, pollution control and treatment, and preserving the quality of the environment by averting the contamination and degradation of water resources.

  • Assist with verifying the characteristics of a site, providing entry-level technical assistance on various stormwater and environmental issues.

  • Utilize computer-aided design (CADD) software to develop design plans. Use of Bentley, Autodesk, and ArcGIS software is expected.

  • Complete training on assigned tasks.

  • Regularly coordinate and communicate with project teams and supervisor. Attend and participate in project team meetings.

  • Comply with safety guidelines and site-specific procedures which include but are not limited to, location data, statistical documentation, engineering studies and surveys, and construction.

  • Exercise responsible and ethical decision-making regarding company funds, resources and conduct, and adhere to WSP's Code of Conduct and related policies and procedures.

  • Perform additional responsibilities as required by business needs.

Who You Are

Required Qualifications

  • Bachelor's Degree in Civil or Environmental Engineering, with a focus in Water Resources or closely related discipline.

  • Excellent research skills with analytical mindset.

  • Familiarity with the concepts of professional water resources engineering work relating to stormwater management, water quality, and drainage design.

  • Familiarity with relevant environmental laws, regulations, compliance practices, and record-keeping requirements.

  • Competent interpersonal and communication skills when interacting with others, expressing ideas effectively and professionally to an engineering and non-engineering audience.

  • Proficient self-leadership with attention to detail, multi-tasking, and prioritization of responsibilities in a dynamic work environment.

  • Ability to work independently under general supervision, as well as part of a team to meet business objectives.

  • Basic proficiency with technical writing, office automation, software, technology, math principles, predictive models, spreadsheets, and tools.

  • Proven track record of upholding workplace safety and ability to abide by WSP's health, safety and drug/alcohol and harassment policies.

  • Ability to work schedules conducive to project-specific requirements that may extend beyond the typical workweek.

  • Occasional travel may be required depending on project-specific requirements.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Engineer in Training (E.I.T) Certification.

  • Prior internship related to civil and/or water resources engineering.

  • Familiarity with discipline-specific design software (i.e., AutoCAD, Civil 3D, ArcGIS, SWMM, HEC-RAS, HEC-HMS, MicroStation, Power GEOPAK, OpenRoads Designer).

  • A member of and/or actively participates in local professional practice organizations.

    #LI-MF1
     

About WSP

WSP USA is the U.S. operating company of WSP, one of the world's leading engineering and professional services firms. Dedicated to serving local communities, we are engineers, planners, technical experts, strategic advisors and construction management professionals. WSP USA designs lasting solutions in the buildings, transportation, energy, water and environment markets. With more than 15,000 employees in over 300 offices across the U.S., we partner with our clients to help communities prosper.

www.wsp.com

WSP provides a flexible and agile workplace model while meeting client needs. Employees are also afforded a comprehensive suite of benefits including medical, dental, vision, disability, life, and retirement savings focused on providing health and financial stability throughout the employee's career.

At WSP, we want to give our employees the challenges they seek to grow their careers and knowledge base. Your daily contributions to your team will be essential in meeting client objectives, goals and challenges. Are you ready to get started?

WSP USA (and all of its U.S. companies) is an Equal Opportunity Employer Race/Age/Color/Religion/Sex/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity/National Origin/Disability or Protected Veteran Status.

The selected candidate must be authorized to work in the United States.

NOTICE TO THIRD PARTY AGENCIES:

WSP does not accept unsolicited resumes from recruiters, employment agencies, or other staffing services. Unsolicited resumes include any resume or hiring document sent to WSP in the absence of a signed Service Agreement where WSP has expressly requested recruitment/staffing services specific to the position at hand.  Any unsolicited resumes, including those submitted to hiring managers or other business leaders, will become the property of WSP and WSP will have the right to hire that candidate without reservation - no fee or other compensation will be owed or paid to the recruiter, employment agency, or other staffing service. 

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