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Entry Level Water Resource Engineer Jobs in Virginia

HDR

Water Resources Engineer

Vienna, VA · On-site

$79K - $108K/yr

In the role of Water Resources Engineer, we'll count on you to: * Provide project engineering and task management, conduct difficult to complex hydraulic and hydrologic modeling; conduct stormwater ...

HDR

Water Resources Engineer

Vienna, VA

$79K - $108K/yr

In the role of Water Resources Engineer, we'll count on you to: * Provide project engineering and task management, conduct difficult to complex hydraulic and hydrologic modeling; conduct stormwater ...

HDR

Water Resources Engineer

Vienna, VA · On-site

$79K - $108K/yr

In the role of Water Resources Engineer, we'll count on you to: * Provide project engineering and task management, conduct difficult to complex hydraulic and hydrologic modeling; conduct stormwater ...

Rummel Klepper and Kahl

Drainage Engineer

Richmond, VA · On-site

RK&K is currently hiring an Engineer to join our growing Water Resources team in Richmond VA. This ... On our Water Resources team, you will support multiple VDOT and municipal projects, working ...

Dewberry

Water Resources Engineering Intern

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$18.75 - $29.75/hr

Dewberry is currently seeking a Water Resources Engineering Intern to in our Fairfax, VA office for Summer 2027 . This is an excellent career opportunity for an enthusiastic and talented individual ...

Dewberry

Water Resources Engineering Intern

Fairfax, VA

$18.75 - $29.75/hr

Dewberry is currently seeking a Water Resources Engineering Intern to in our Fairfax, VA office for Summer 2027 . This is an excellent career opportunity for an enthusiastic and talented individual ...

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

Entry Level Water Resource Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$28.8K

$93.1K

$132.4K

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 Virginia is $93,088.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $78,300.00 and $107,100.00 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 Virginia?

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

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

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

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

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

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

Cities in Virginia 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 Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $93,088 per year, or $44.8 per hour.

Water Resources Engineer - Floodplain & Dam Safety

Nbutexas

Chantilly, VA • On-site

$65 - $100/hr

Other

Posted 3 days ago

New

Job description

Water Resources Engineer – Floodplain & Dam Safety

Our client is seeking a Water Resources Engineer to join its growing Water Resources team in the greater Northern Virginia / Washington, DC region. This role offers the opportunity to support a variety of floodplain and dam-related projects throughout the Mid-Atlantic region.

The selected candidate will work on hydrologic and hydraulic (H&H) modeling, floodplain permitting, dam safety evaluations, and related water resources engineering assignments. Projects will include FEMA and local floodplain studies, dam breach analyses, floodplain crossings, and permitting support for state-regulated dams in Virginia and Maryland.

This position provides strong long-term growth potential within a collaborative engineering environment, with additional exposure to stormwater management design, permitting, and related water resources services.

Key Responsibilities:
  • Develop and support HEC-RAS hydraulic models using GIS, survey, and as-built data
  • Perform hydrologic and hydraulic analyses and assist with model calibration
  • Prepare floodplain studies, CLOMR/LOMR packages, and permitting documentation
  • Assist with dam breach inundation studies, hazard assessments, and flood mapping
  • Support preparation of emergency action plans and technical reports
  • Assist with design of floodplain crossings and dam rehabilitation projects
  • Conduct site visits and support floodplain and dam inspections
  • Coordinate with regulatory agencies and assist with permit approvalsResearch applicable codes, regulations, and engineering standards
  • Manage project tasks and support multiple concurrent assignments
Required Qualifications:
  • Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering or related discipline
  • 2+ years of experience with HEC-RAS modeling and water resources engineering
  • Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills
  • Strong written and verbal communication abilities
  • Experience with GIS platforms such as ArcMap or similar software
  • Attention to detail and commitment to quality deliverables
Preferred Qualifications:
  • Engineer-in-Training (EIT) certification or Professional Engineer (PE) license
  • Certified Floodplain Manager (CFM)
  • Experience with HEC-RAS 2D modeling
  • Familiarity with AutoCAD or related design software
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