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Entry Level Water Resource Engineer Jobs in Virginia

Drainage Engineer

Fredericksburg, VA ยท On-site

$80K - $110K/yr

If you enjoy solving complex water resource challenges and want to grow your career with a ... Utilize engineering software such as Flowmaster (OpenFlows), Ensoft MicroStation/OpenRoads Designer.

Perform water resources engineering work and analyses relating to stormwater and hydraulic structures and surface water management in accordance with applicable laws, rules and standards. * Perform ...

Perform water resources engineering work and analyses relating to stormwater and hydraulic structures and surface water management in accordance with applicable laws, rules and standards. * Perform ...

Water Resources Engineering Intern

Fairfax, VA ยท 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 ...

New

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 ...

New

Water Resources Engineering Intern

Gainesville, VA ยท On-site

$17.75 - $28.75/hr

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

Dewberry is currently seeking an Entry Level Site/Civil Engineer to join the Site/Civil department ... systems design, water and sanitary sewer design, and erosion and sediment control design.

Entry Level Site/Civil Engineer

Leesburg, VA ยท On-site

$82K - $85K/yr

Dewberry is seeking an Entry Level Site/Civil Engineer to join our Leesburg, VA office to work on ... Individual may analyze hydrologic and hydraulic models and computations for storm water and ...

Entry Level Site/Civil Engineer

Leesburg, VA ยท On-site

$82K - $85K/yr

Dewberry is seeking an Entry Level Site/Civil Engineer to join our Leesburg, VA office to work on ... Individual may analyze hydrologic and hydraulic models and computations for storm water and ...

Entry Level Site/Civil Engineer

Richmond, VA ยท On-site

$82K - $84K/yr

Dewberry is currently seeking an Entry Level Site/Civil Engineer to join our Richmond, VA office ... Responsibilities Civil/Site development including grading design; roadway design; storm water ...

Showing results 21-40

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 7, 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 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 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 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 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 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:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Water Resource Engineer job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 92% In-person, 4% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $93,088 per year, or $44.8 per hour.

Drainage Engineer

Trilon Group

Fredericksburg, VA โ€ข On-site

$80K - $110K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 13 days ago


Job description

Drainage Engineer
Department: Transportation
Employment Type: Full Time
Location: Fredericksburg, VA
Compensation: $80,000 - $110,000 / year
Description
Rinker Design Associates (RDA) is seeking a motivated Drainage Engineer with 2+ years of experience to join our Transportation team. In this role, you'll support the planning, analysis, and design of stormwater and drainage systems for roadway and infrastructure projects. Working alongside experienced engineers and project managers, you'll contribute to projects that enhance safety, sustainability, and community connectivity.
If you enjoy solving complex water resource challenges and want to grow your career with a collaborative team, we'd love to hear from you.
$10,000 Sign-On Bonus
What You'll Do:
  • Assist in the hydrologic and hydraulic analysis and design of stormwater management and drainage systems for transportation projects.
  • Prepare drainage reports, calculations, and supporting documentation.
  • Develop storm sewer layouts, culvert designs, ditch grading, and erosion and sediment control plans.
  • Utilize engineering software such as Flowmaster (OpenFlows), Ensoft MicroStation/OpenRoads Designer.
  • Support floodplain and watershed analyses in accordance with VDOT, DEQ, FEMA, and local requirements.
  • Coordinate with project managers, clients, and regulatory agencies to support project delivery.
  • Participate in field investigations and site visits as needed.
  • Assist with preparing permit applications and technical reports.
  • Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to deliver high-quality transportation projects.

What You'll Need:
  • Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering or a related field.
  • 2+ years of experience in drainage, stormwater, or water resources engineering.
  • Engineer-in-Training (EIT) certification preferred or ability to obtain.
  • Familiarity with VDOT Drainage Manual, DEQ regulations, FEMA requirements, and AASHTO standards preferred.
  • Experience with Ensoft, Flowmaster, MicroStation, and/or OpenRoads Designer is preferred.
  • Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication abilities.
  • Ability to manage multiple assignments and work effectively within a team environment.
  • Valid driver's license and ability to travel to project sites as needed.

Why Join RDA?
We offer a comprehensive benefits package which includes:
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • 401K Retirement Plan; Roth Contributions
  • Health Savings Account (HSA)
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
  • Life, AD&D, short-term and long-term disability
  • Generous PTO and 8 federal holidays + 1 floating holiday
  • Parental leave
  • Supportive team culture

RDA is an Equal Opportunity Employer and maintains a drug-free workplace.
Applicants that require an employment visa sponsorship now or in the future will not be considered.