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Entry Level Hec Ras Jobs in Phoenix, AZ (NOW HIRING)

CDM Smith is looking for an entry-level Environmental Engineer to join our Water Services Group in ... HEC-RAS, SWMM, CADD, Excel, and other software. * Additionally, there may be opportunities to ...

Entry Level Hec Ras information

What is an Entry Level HEC-RAS job?

An Entry Level HEC-RAS job typically involves working with the Hydrologic Engineering Center's River Analysis System (HEC-RAS) software to model and analyze river and stream hydraulics. Individuals in this role assist in preparing data, running simulations, and interpreting results for floodplain mapping, bridge design, and water resources projects. Entry level positions usually require a background in civil or environmental engineering and provide on-the-job training for using HEC-RAS software. Tasks may include data collection, model setup, report writing, and supporting senior engineers in project execution.

What are some typical challenges an Entry Level HEC-RAS specialist might face when starting in the field?

As an Entry Level HEC-RAS specialist, you may encounter challenges such as interpreting complex hydrologic and hydraulic data, learning to use HEC-RAS software efficiently, and understanding regulatory requirements for modeling projects. Collaborating with experienced engineers and multidisciplinary teams is common, which may require clear communication and adaptability. Gaining proficiency in data collection, report writing, and troubleshooting model errors is essential for success and career growth in this role.

What is the difference between Entry Level Hec Ras vs Entry Level Civil Engineer?

AspectEntry Level Hec RasEntry Level Civil Engineer
Required CredentialsAssociate degree or relevant certification, basic knowledge of HEC-RAS softwareBachelor's degree in civil engineering or related field, engineering license often not required at entry level
Work EnvironmentOffice-based, GIS and hydraulic modeling focusOffice and fieldwork, design projects, site inspections
Industry UsageHydraulic modeling, floodplain analysis, water resources projectsInfrastructure design, transportation, water resources, construction

Entry Level Hec Ras roles focus on hydraulic modeling and water flow analysis using HEC-RAS software, often requiring specific certifications. Entry Level Civil Engineers have a broader scope, including design and project management, with a civil engineering degree. Both roles are essential in water resources and infrastructure projects but differ in technical focus and work environment.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level HEC-RAS Engineer, you need a background in civil or environmental engineering, knowledge of hydrology and hydraulics, and a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with HEC-RAS software, GIS tools, and possibly AutoCAD is typically required, along with any internships or certifications in water resources. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you interpret data and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams. These abilities are essential for producing accurate flood modeling, ensuring regulatory compliance, and supporting successful project outcomes.
What are the most commonly searched types of Hec Ras jobs in Phoenix, AZ? The most popular types of Hec Ras jobs in Phoenix, AZ are:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Hec Ras job openings in Phoenix, AZ as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution.

Entry-Level Hydrologic & Hydraulic Engineer

GFT.

Phoenix, AZ

$70K - $90K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 24 days ago


Job description

GFT is seeking a motivated Entry-Level Hydrologic & Hydraulic Engineer to join our Geotechnical, Dams, and Hydraulics team in Phoenix, AZ or Bountiful, UT. This position follows a hybrid work format, requiring a minimum 3 days of onsite attendance per week.

Joining the dams and hydraulics team at GFT means contributing to innovative solutions for sustainable water management and infrastructure. Our team excels in dams and levees, advanced water and wastewater treatment, stormwater management, and conveyance, collection, and transmission. With a focus on integrating technology, sustainability, and compliance, we consider each water resources and environmental remediation project a chance to innovate and evolve to protect public health and enhance quality of life. Explore some of our signature water resources and environmental projects here.  

What you'll be challenged to do:The Entry Level Hydrologic & Hydraulic Engineer will support hydrologic and hydraulic analysis and design across a diverse project portfolio, with approximately 50% of your time dedicated to scour evaluations for electrical transmission line infrastructure (foundations, river crossings, and access roads). The remaining time will support dam safety, hydraulic structures, and flood control projects. You will collaborate with geotechnical, civil, structural, mechanical, and electrical engineers through all phases of the project lifecycle.

In this capacity, the successful candidate will be responsible for the following:

  • Support analysis and design of water resources projects, including dams, flood control, and hydraulic structures.
  • Perform hydrologic and hydraulic modeling, calculations, and scour evaluations (HEC-18, FCDMC).
  • Conduct field reviews to assess site conditions and support project development.
  • Provide technical support for studies including safe yield, fish passage, stream restoration, bridge scour, and dam safety evaluations.
  • Support H&H analyses for electrical transmission infrastructure, focusing on foundation, crossing, and access road scour.
  • Perform hydrologic calculations using rain-on-grid, Rational, USGS regression, HEC-1, and DDMSW methods.
  • Develop and run 1D/2D HEC-RAS models for steady and unsteady flow.
  • Compile and process survey, GIS, soils, and FEMA data for modeling and analysis.
  • Prepare engineering analyses, technical memoranda, reports, maps, figures, and exhibits for client and regulatory submittals.
  • Document assumptions, methods, calculations, and results clearly and traceably.
  • Prepare drawings, design figures, and other project deliverables in compliance with FCDMC, FEMA, and regional standards.

What you'll bring to our firm:

  • Bachelor's Degree in Civil or Environmental Engineering from an ABET-accredited program.
  • 0-3 years of relevant experience in water resources, hydrologic, or hydraulic engineering.
  • Demonstrated interest in water resources, hydrologic or hydrologic engineering through applied academic projects, internships, or prior work experiences.
  • Basic knowledge of hydrologic and hydraulic modeling tools such as HEC-RAS (1D/2D), HEC-HMS, HEC-1, DDMSW, and SITES.
  • Familiarity with GIS software such as ArcGIS Pro.
  • Basic proficiency with CAD software such as AutoCAD, Civil 3D.
  • Working proficiency in MS Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Outlook).
  • Ability to work independently or collaboratively as a member of a team.
  • Strong written and oral communication skills.
  • Engineer-In-Training (EIT) certification or able to receive within six (6) months of hire.

What we prefer you bring:

  • Master's Degree in Civil or Environmental Engineering with emphasis in water resources, hydraulics, or dam engineering.
  • Familiarity with scour evaluation methods (HEC-18, FCDMC) and/or transmission line infrastructure projects.
  • Working experience with two and three dimensional hydraulic modeling tools.
  • Experience with Python or VBA for engineering calculations and automation.
  • Interest in supporting business development through proposal preparation and client engagement.

Compensation:

  • The salary range for this position is $70,000 - $90,000. Salary is dependent upon experience and geographic location.
 Featured Benefits:  Hybrid (in-person and remote) work environment. Comprehensive benefits package including wellness programs, parental leave, and pet insurance, in addition to medical, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance. Tax-deferred 401(k) savings plan. Competitive paid-time-off (PTO) accrual. Tuition reimbursement for continued education. Commitment to professional development, access to internal and external training programs, and support of active participation in professional organizations Incentive compensation for eligible positions.

At GFT, a privately held AEC firm, we innovate where transportation, water, power, and buildings converge. We call this the Infrastructure of Life. We measure our success by the strength of our relationships - that's why we're the employer of choice for 5,000+ of the industry's brightest engineers, planners, architects, inspectors, designers, and more.

Our clients choose us for our expertise and prefer us for our nimble approach, creativity, and personal touch. Backed by over a century's experience, together we're building a lasting legacy for future generations: stronger communities, a healthier planet, and better lives.GFT: Ingenuity That Shapes Lives is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veterans' status or other characteristics protected by law.

Unsolicited resumes from third party agencies will be considered the property GFT.

GFT does require the successful completion of a criminal background check for all advertised positions. 

Location: Bountiful, UT; Phoenix, AZCore Business Hours: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PMEmployment Status: Full-Time

Applicants in the County of Los Angeles- Qualified applications with arrest or conviction records will be considered for employment in accordance with the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers and the California Fair Chance Act.

Applicants in the City of San Francisco- Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Applicants in the State of California-Qualified applications with arrest or conviction records will be considered for employment in accordance with the California Fair Chance Act.#LI-ML2#LI-Hybrid

Employment Type: FULL_TIME