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Entry Level Drainage Engineer Jobs in Boston, MA

All JobsDrainage Engineer JobsEntry Level Drainage Engineer JobsEntry Level Drainage Engineer Jobs in Boston, MA

Entry Level Drainage Engineer information

See Boston, MA salary details

$57K

$105.3K

$141.2K

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

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level drainage engineer in Boston, MA is $105,266.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $91,800.00 and $119,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.
Entry Level Drainage Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Drainage Engineer job openings in Boston, MA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $105,266 per year, or $50.6 per hour.

Civil Engineer - Entry Level

METROWEST ENGINEERING INC

Framingham, MA

$62K - $72K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 21 days ago

Job description

Well respected and small civil engineering firm seeking an entry level civil engineer. Ideal candidate will be a recent university graduate with strong technical and organizational skills. We provide consulting civil engineering, land surveying, hydrologic engineering, drainage engineering, wetland protection and other services related to the analysis, design and permitting of site development projects. Our projects include small commercial and institutional developments, and high-end residential projects in the bedroom communities of Boston.
We seek an individual who is energetic and willing to work hard to provide a high quality engineering for a demanding clientele. The successful candidate will work closely with professional engineers and land surveyors, and will have  varied and interesting assignments. This is an opportunity to gain experience quickly, and to work directly with clients, contractors and town and agency officials. 
A qualified candidate will possess strong analytical skills and be able to communicate both verbally and in writing. 
We hope to make a long-term commitment to an individual seeking a rewarding, professional career.