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Entry Level Drainage Engineer Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

We have a new opportunity an entry level Civil Engineer, located in our Miami, FL office. Our ... Design of site development and municipal projects, including roadways, site grading, storm drainage ...

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Entry Level Drainage Engineer information

What does an entry level drainage engineer do?

An Entry Level Drainage Engineer helps design, analyze, and implement stormwater and wastewater management systems under the supervision of senior engineers. Their tasks typically include preparing drainage plans, using software to model water flow, assisting with site inspections, and ensuring projects comply with environmental regulations. They often work with multidisciplinary teams on infrastructure projects such as roads, buildings, and land developments. This role is ideal for recent engineering graduates looking to gain experience in civil or environmental engineering fields.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level drainage engineer?

To thrive as an Entry Level Drainage Engineer, you need a solid understanding of civil engineering principles, hydrology, and environmental regulations, typically backed by a bachelor's degree in civil or environmental engineering. Familiarity with technical tools such as AutoCAD, MicroStation, and drainage modeling software like HEC-RAS or SWMM is often required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills set candidates apart in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for designing safe, efficient drainage systems and collaborating successfully with multidisciplinary teams.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level drainage engineers in their first year on the job?

Entry level drainage engineers often encounter challenges such as learning to interpret complex civil engineering plans, understanding local and federal drainage regulations, and becoming proficient with specialized design software like Civil 3D or MicroDrainage. Additionally, they may need to quickly adapt to collaborating with multidisciplinary teams, including architects, surveyors, and environmental specialists. Time management and balancing multiple project deadlines are also common hurdles, but with guidance from senior engineers and on-the-job experience, these challenges become valuable learning opportunities.

What is the difference between Entry Level Drainage Engineer vs Junior Civil Engineer?

AspectEntry Level Drainage EngineerJunior Civil Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Civil or Environmental Engineering, possibly some internship experienceBachelor's in Civil Engineering, internship experience often preferred
Work EnvironmentDesigning drainage systems, site assessments, field inspectionsAssisting in various civil projects, site planning, and design tasks
Industry UsageSpecialized in drainage and stormwater management within civil engineering firmsBroader civil engineering roles across multiple project types

Both roles typically require a bachelor's degree in civil engineering and internship experience. An Entry Level Drainage Engineer focuses specifically on drainage systems and stormwater management, while a Junior Civil Engineer has a broader scope in civil projects. The drainage engineer role is more specialized, whereas the junior civil engineer may work across various civil disciplines.

Are entry level drainage engineers in demand?

Entry level drainage engineers are in steady demand due to ongoing infrastructure projects, urban development, and the need for stormwater management solutions. Employers seek candidates with basic knowledge of civil engineering principles, drainage design software, and relevant certifications, making entry-level positions accessible for recent graduates.

What qualifications do I need to be an entry level drainage engineer?

An entry-level drainage engineer typically needs a bachelor's degree in civil engineering, environmental engineering, or a related field. Relevant skills include knowledge of drainage design, computer-aided design (CAD) software, and understanding of local regulations; some positions may also require internships or related work experience.

What cities in Florida are hiring for Entry Level Drainage Engineer jobs?

Cities in Florida with the most Entry Level Drainage Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Drainage Engineer job openings in Florida as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Technical Specialist 1 (Entry Level Drainage Engineer)

GAI Consultants

Orlando, FL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted yesterday

New


GAI Consultants rating

9.6

Company rating: 9.6 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

8th of 450 rated engineering


Job description

We have and exciting opportunity for a motivated and detail-oriented Drainage Engineer  to join our growing transportation and infrastructure team. This position offers an excellent opportunity for a recent graduate or early-career engineer to develop technical expertise in drainage and stormwater design while working alongside experienced engineers on roadway, highway, municipal, and transportation projects throughout Florida. 

The ideal candidate will have a strong foundation in civil engineering principles, a willingness to learn Florida drainage design standards, and an interest in developing a career in transportation and water resources engineering. 

Key Responsibilities 

  • Assist with drainage engineering analyses and design for transportation, municipal, and infrastructure projects.
  • Support the preparation of drainage reports, calculations, technical memorandums, plans, and specifications.
  • Assist in the design of stormwater management systems, culverts, retention and detention facilities, and roadway drainage infrastructure.
  • Perform hydrologic and hydraulic calculations under the guidance of senior engineers.
  • Assist with the development of permit applications and supporting documentation.
  • Coordinate with roadway engineers, environmental specialists, surveyors, and project teams.
  • Support project design efforts using industry-standard engineering software.
  • Review project information, maps, survey data, and construction plans.
  • Participate in field visits, site investigations, and project meetings as needed.
  • Ensure project work complies with FDOT standards, local regulations, and company quality standards.
  • Continue professional development toward obtaining Professional Engineer (PE) licensure.

Required Qualifications 

  • Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering from an accredited university.
  • Engineer Intern (EI) certification or ability to obtain within 12 months of hire.
  • 0-3 years of experience in civil engineering, drainage engineering, transportation engineering, or related internships/co-op experience.
  • Basic understanding of hydrology, hydraulics, and stormwater management principles.
  • Familiarity with engineering design software such as:
    • AutoCAD Civil 3D
    • MicroStation
    • HEC-RAS
    • HY-8
    • ICPR (preferred but not required)
  • Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication abilities.
  • Ability to work effectively in a collaborative team environment.

Preferred Qualifications 

  • Internship or co-op experience with a civil engineering consulting firm, transportation agency, or municipality.
  • Exposure to FDOT standards, roadway design, or stormwater management projects.
  • Experience using Civil 3D, MicroStation, HEC-RAS, or related engineering software.
  • Engineer Intern (EI) certification.
  • Interest in pursuing Florida Professional Engineer (PE) licensure.
  • Residency in the Orlando or Jacksonville area preferred.

What You'll Gain 

  • Mentorship from experienced Professional Engineers.
  • Exposure to FDOT and municipal infrastructure projects.
  • Hands-on experience with drainage and stormwater design.
  • Professional development opportunities and PE licensure support.
  • Career growth within a collaborative transportation and infrastructure team.

General Characteristics

  • Possesses foundational engineering concepts through undergraduate-level education.  
  • Acquires basic knowledge and develops basic skills through mentored experience.   
  • Applies learned knowledge and skills to perform assigned tasks. 
  • Performs routine technical work which does not require previous experience. 
  • Understands and complies with ethical codes.

Minimum Years of Experience

  • Entry / 0+ Years of Experience

Education

  • B.S. Engineering or other technical degree

Technical Responsibilities

  • Collects data and gathers information or documents. 
  • Participates in laboratory testing and field investigations.
  • Performs basic computations or analysis.
  • Assists with preparation of engineering deliverables.
  • Observes construction activities.

Project and Task Management

  • Responsible for personal task management and adherence to deadlines and scope. 
  • No managerial responsibilities at this level.

Management Responsibility

  • Receives close supervision on all aspects of assignments. 
  • Attains mentored experience from a licensed engineer.

Communication Skills

  • Possesses basic oral and written communication skills. Identifies and acknowledges principles of teamwork and leadership. 
  • Interacts primarily with internal project team members.

Why GAI?  

GAI offers skilled professionals like you an exceptional place to work, grow, lead, and achieve. Explore an array of opportunities in locations across the U.S. and join accomplished colleagues in tackling challenging projects for a range of markets. Enjoy work location and scheduling flexibility; your choice of comprehensive, personalized benefits; a range of employee wellness programs and discounts; and more. Feel good about being part of a collaborative team that’s committed to supporting the communities we serve. Join GAI and distinguish yourself in a company poised for unlimited growth.  

Benefits To Working at GAI Include:  

Competitive Pay & Recognition  

  • Market based, competitive compensation 
  • Performance driven recognition and development bonuses 

Comprehensive Health & Wellness  

  • Medical, dental, and vision plans 
  • Company paid short-term and long-term disability 
  • Company paid life insurance 
  • Employee Assistance Program and wellness resources 

Meaningful Work–Life Balance  

  • Generous paid time off + 7 paid holidays 
  • An additional floating holiday—use it for what matters to you 
  • Paid maternity, paternity, and adoption leave 

Growth, Learning & Financial Security  

  • 401(k) with company match 
  • Tuition reimbursement 
  • Support and rewards for professional development and certifications 

 #GAI


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    About GAI Consultants

    Sourced by ZipRecruiter

    GAI Consultants is an employee-owned corporation offering comprehensive engineering, planning, and environmental consulting services to diverse industry sectors, located in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, in the United States. The company operates in the field of engineering consulting and provides sustainable and economically-viable solutions to clients ranging from bridge design, community planning, to industrial facilities, ecological studies, and more. GAI Consultants was founded in 1958 and, over more than six decades, has grown significantly with a strong commitment to advancing clients' projects and contributing to community development. The firm operates on the core values of integrity, client satisfaction, quality, and workforce development, all of which raises the bar on client service and project excellence, ultimately contributing to the company’s mission, which is 'to create and deliver superior, innovative consulting solutions that enrich the lives of our people and enhance the world we live in.'

    Industry

    Civil engineering construction

    Company size

    501 - 1,000 Employees

    Headquarters location

    Pittsburgh, PA, US

    Year founded

    1958

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