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Entry Level Water Resource Engineer Jobs in California

HDR

Civil Coordinator/EIT - Water Resources

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$84K - $115K/yr

We believe water is more than a resource, it's a shared responsibility. As part of our Water ... Engineer in Training (EIT) certificate * Candidates without their EIT will be placed into a Design ...

HDR

Civil Coordinator/EIT - Water Resources

Sacramento, CA

$84K - $115K/yr

We believe water is more than a resource, it's a shared responsibility. As part of our Water ... Engineer in Training (EIT) certificate * Candidates without their EIT will be placed into a Design ...

HDR

Civil Coordinator/EIT - Water Resources

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$84K - $115K/yr

We believe water is more than a resource, it's a shared responsibility. As part of our Water ... Engineer in Training (EIT) certificate * Candidates without their EIT will be placed into a Design ...

State Water Resources Control Board

WRCE

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$6.4K - $12K/mo

Under the general supervision of a Supervising Water Resources Control Engineer (Supervisory) in the Technical Operations Section, the incumbent will perform varied and complex technical and ...

Stantec

Hydrologic and Hydraulic Engineer

Pasadena, CA · On-site

$86K - $117K/yr

... Engineer to our hydropower and dams group within the energy business line in Southern California ... If working on the most challenging water and natural resources projects around the world, building ...

Stantec

Hydrologic and Hydraulic Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$84K - $115K/yr

... Engineer to our hydropower and dams group within the energy business line in Southern California ... If working on the most challenging water and natural resources projects around the world, building ...

Stantec

Hydrologic and Hydraulic Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$85K - $116K/yr

... Engineer to our hydropower and dams group within the energy business line in Southern California ... If working on the most challenging water and natural resources projects around the world, building ...

Stantec

Hydrologic and Hydraulic Engineer

Pasadena, CA · On-site

$100K - $145K/yr

... Engineer to our hydropower and dams group within the energy business line in Southern California ... If working on the most challenging water and natural resources projects around the world, building ...

PACE - Advanced Water Engineering

Be Seen First

Design Engineer / Project Engineer

Fountain Valley, CA · On-site

$70K - $130K/yr

This is an entry level position leading to an advanced role. The candidate will be expected to gain ... advanced water resource services with unique research and development capabilities through our ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsWater Resource Engineer JobsEntry Level Water Resource Engineer JobsEntry Level Water Resource Engineer Jobs in California

Entry Level Water Resource Engineer information

See California salary details

$28.6K

$92.7K

$131.8K

How much do entry level water resource engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level water resource engineer in California is $92,664.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $78,000.00 and $106,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an entry level water resource engineer do?

An entry level water resource engineer assists with the planning, design, and management of projects related to water resources, such as flood control, stormwater management, and water supply systems. Their tasks often include data collection, analysis, computer modeling, and preparing technical reports under the supervision of senior engineers. They may also support permitting processes and coordinate with clients and regulatory agencies. This role is ideal for recent graduates in civil or environmental engineering who are interested in sustainable water solutions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level water resource engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Water Resource Engineer, you need a bachelor's degree in civil or environmental engineering and a solid understanding of hydrology, hydraulics, and environmental regulations. Familiarity with technical tools such as AutoCAD, GIS software, and hydraulic modeling programs (e.g., HEC-RAS) is typically required, along with an Engineer-in-Training (EIT) certification being advantageous. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication skills help you stand out in this role. These competencies ensure accurate project design, regulatory compliance, and collaborative problem-solving in water resource management projects.

What are some typical challenges faced by entry level water resource engineers during their first year on the job?

Entry level water resource engineers often encounter challenges such as learning to interpret complex environmental regulations, adapting to the technical demands of hydrologic modeling software, and managing multiple project deadlines. Additionally, they may need to quickly develop strong communication skills to collaborate effectively with multidisciplinary teams, including senior engineers, planners, and regulatory agencies. These experiences provide valuable opportunities for professional growth and help new engineers build a solid foundation in the field.

What is the difference between Entry Level Water Resource Engineer vs Water Resources Technician?

AspectEntry Level Water Resource EngineerWater Resources Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Civil, Environmental Engineering or related field; Engineer-in-Training (EIT) preferredAssociate's degree or technical certification in water systems or environmental technology
Work EnvironmentDesign, analysis, project planning; office and fieldworkField data collection, equipment maintenance, site inspections
Employer & Industry UsageEngineering firms, government agencies, consulting companiesMunicipal water departments, environmental agencies, contractors

While both roles support water resource management, Entry Level Water Resource Engineers focus on designing and analyzing water systems, requiring a bachelor's degree and engineering credentials. Water Resources Technicians primarily handle field data collection and equipment, often with technical certifications. The engineer role involves more planning and analysis, whereas technicians focus on operational tasks.

What are the most commonly searched types of Water Resource Engineer jobs in California?

The most popular types of Water Resource Engineer jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Water Resource Engineer jobs in California?

For Entry Level Water Resource Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Water Resource Engineer jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Water Resource Engineer jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Entry Level Water Resource Engineer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Entry Level Water Resource Engineer job openings:

Entry Level Water Resource Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Water Resource Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, and 22% Part Time. Highlights an 89% In-person, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $92,664 per year, or $44.5 per hour.

Project Manager - Water Resources

RE/SPEC Inc.

San Diego, CA • On-site, Remote

$110K - $170K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 22 days ago

Job description

Company Description

Big challenges need bold thinkers.

If you're someone who sees problems as opportunities, you'll thrive here. RESPEC is 100% employee-owned, which means we take ownership of every challenge. Here, your ideas drive real solutions. Since 1969, we've tackled complex challenges in energy transition, infrastructure resilience, digital transformation, and sustainability.

At RESPEC, you'll work alongside clients to take on critical problems. Depending on your expertise, you might design infrastructure in remote locations, develop renewable energy solutions for global projects, or apply data-driven technology to improve mining and water systems.

We bring deep technical knowledge, real-world experience, and a commitment to work that matters. If you're looking for a place where your contributions have real impact, you'll fit right in.

Job Description

RESPEC, seeks a Water Resource Engineering Project Manager in our Water market sector, located in San Diego, CA.

As a Project Manager, you will contribute to a wide range of water resources engineering projects, including rainfall analysis, hydrologic and hydraulic modeling, stormwater management, and development of technical guidance documents. The position may also support other civil and water related projects. This position is based in Southern California, with the primary office in San Diego, offers flexibility for hybrid work, and includes regional travel within Southern California for client meetings.

We do not accept unsolicited resumes from third-party recruiters.

Qualifications

Required:

  • Bachelor's degree in civil, water resources, environmental engineering or a related engineering field
  • 8 or more years of experience in hydrology and hydraulics for public sector or private consulting clients
  • Strong background in rainfall runoff modeling and statistical hydrology
  • A minimum of 3 years of project manager experience
  • Registered Professional Engineer (P.E.) in the state of California
  • Experience leading multidiscipline teams and mentoring technical professionals
  • Proven ability to support business development and strengthen client relationships
  • Must possess a valid driver's license and maintain a clean driving record; position requires operating a company or personal vehicle during work hours for business-related travel

Preferred:

  • Established relationships and experience working with California agencies and public sector clients
  • Direct experience with county or regional hydrology manuals, drainage criteria, or technical guidance documents
  • Experience with advanced statistical analysis of rainfall and streamflow, including nonstationary hydrologic conditions and post fire hydrology
  • Comfort reviewing and defending technical assumptions with agency reviewers
  • Practical application of hydrology and hydraulics software, including HEC-RAS (1D and 2D), HEC-HMS, and SWMM
Additional Information

Compensation: Salary depends on experience and expertise, typical salary range for this position in California is $110k-170k, DOEQ. Compensation includes a comprehensive fringe-benefits package. RESPEC is a 100% employee-owned company and employees are eligible for participation in the Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) after a qualifying period.

Featured benefits include:

  • Flexible Work Schedules
  • Retirement & EPP (with company match up to 4%)
  • Professional Development and Training
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Health/Dental/Vision Insurance Plans

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

Apply