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Entry Level Water Resource Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Water Resources Engineer

Dallas, TX · On-site

$78.10K - $106.80K/yr

We believe water is more than a resource, it's a shared responsibility. As part of our Water ... Provide project engineering and task management, conduct difficult to complex hydraulic and ...

Water Resources Engineer

Dallas, TX · On-site

$78.10K - $106.80K/yr

We believe water is more than a resource, it's a shared responsibility. As part of our Water ... Provide project engineering and task management, conduct difficult to complex hydraulic and ...

Water Resources Engineer

Vienna, VA · On-site

$79.30K - $108.40K/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 ...

Water Resources Engineer

Vienna, VA · On-site

$79.30K - $108.40K/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 ...

Early Career Water Resources Engineer

Brentwood, TN · On-site

$74.70K - $102.20K/yr

This Opportunity WSP is seeking a dedicated Early Career Water Resources Engineer for its Brentwood, TN office. The selected candidate will participate in projects with our TN, AL, MS Water Team ...

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Entry Level Water Resource Engineer information

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$29K

$93.9K

$133.5K

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

As of Jun 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level water resource engineer in the United States is $93,893.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $79,000.00 and $108,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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.

More about Entry Level Water Resource Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Water Resource Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Water Resource Engineer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Water Resource Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Water Resource Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Entry Level Water Resource Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Water Resource Engineer jobs include:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Water Resource Engineer job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 94% In-person, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $93,893 per year, or $45.1 per hour.
Early Professional, Water Resources Engineering

Early Professional, Water Resources Engineering

WSP

Virginia Beach, VA • On-site

$70.20K - $96K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 7 days ago


WSP rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 67 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

15th of 57 rated business consultants


Job description

Job Description
WSP is seeking a dedicated Early Career Water Resources Engineer for its Virginia Beach, VA office. The selected candidate will participate in projects with the VA Water Team, contributing to an expanding organization that addresses client objectives and provides effective solutions to unique coastal challenges. Through our projects, you'll have the opportunity to participate in flood mitigation strategies, design green infrastructure, and support community resilience to climate change. The dynamic nature of our work means every project presents unique technical challenges and the chance to make a tangible difference by preserving water quality and preventing environmental degradation. Joining our team means being at the forefront of stormwater innovation, where your contributions help shape a healthier, more sustainable world.
This Opportunity
Takes part in providing local technical assistance for the analysis, development, and design of processes and infrastructure relating to stormwater facilities, culverts, hydrology, open channel hydraulics, roadway drainage, bridge hydraulics, floodplain modeling/mapping, hydrologic/hydraulic modeling, river/stream/habitat restoration, pollution control and treatment, and preserving the quality of the environment by averting the contamination and degradation of water resources.
Your Impact
  • Work collaboratively as part of a multi-discipline team of engineers to execute project work.
  • Assist with performing basic professional water resources engineering work relating to stormwater management, water quality, stormwater facilities, culverts, hydrology, open channel hydraulics, bridge hydraulics, floodplain modeling/mapping, hydrologic/hydraulic modeling, river/stream/habitat restoration, pollution control and treatment, and preserving the quality of the environment by averting the contamination and degradation of water resources.
  • Assist with verifying the characteristics of a site, providing entry-level technical assistance on various stormwater and environmental issues.
  • Utilize computer-aided design (CADD) software to develop design plans. Use of Bentley, Autodesk, and ArcGIS software is expected.
  • Complete training on assigned tasks.
  • Regularly coordinate and communicate with project teams and supervisor. Attend and participate in project team meetings.
  • Comply with safety guidelines and site-specific procedures which include but are not limited to, location data, statistical documentation, engineering studies and surveys, and construction.
  • Exercise responsible and ethical decision-making regarding company funds, resources and conduct, and adhere to WSP's Code of Conduct and related policies and procedures.
  • Perform additional responsibilities as required by business needs.

Who You Are
Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's Degree in Civil or Environmental Engineering, with a focus in Water Resources or closely related discipline.
  • Excellent research skills with analytical mindset.
  • Familiarity with the concepts of professional water resources engineering work relating to stormwater management, water quality, and drainage design.
  • Familiarity with relevant environmental laws, regulations, compliance practices, and record-keeping requirements.
  • Competent interpersonal and communication skills when interacting with others, expressing ideas effectively and professionally to an engineering and non-engineering audience.
  • Proficient self-leadership with attention to detail, multi-tasking, and prioritization of responsibilities in a dynamic work environment.
  • Ability to work independently under general supervision, as well as part of a team to meet business objectives.
  • Basic proficiency with technical writing, office automation, software, technology, math principles, predictive models, spreadsheets, and tools.
  • Proven track record of upholding workplace safety and ability to abide by WSP's health, safety and drug/alcohol and harassment policies.
  • Ability to work schedules conducive to project-specific requirements that may extend beyond the typical workweek.
  • Occasional travel may be required depending on project-specific requirements.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Engineer in Training (E.I.T) Certification.
  • Prior internship related to civil and/or water resources engineering.
  • Familiarity with discipline-specific design software (i.e., AutoCAD, Civil 3D, ArcGIS, SWMM, HEC-RAS, HEC-HMS, MicroStation, Power GEOPAK, OpenRoads Designer).
  • A member of and/or actively participates in local professional practice organizations.
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About Us
About WSP
WSP USA is the U.S. operating company of WSP, one of the world's leading engineering and professional services firms. Dedicated to serving local communities, we are engineers, planners, technical experts, strategic advisors and construction management professionals. WSP USA designs lasting solutions in the buildings, transportation, energy, water and environment markets. With more than 15,000 employees in over 300 offices across the U.S., we partner with our clients to help communities prosper.
www.wsp.com
WSP provides a flexible and agile workplace model while meeting client needs. Employees are also afforded a comprehensive suite of benefits including medical, dental, vision, disability, life, and retirement savings focused on providing health and financial stability throughout the employee's career.
At WSP, we want to give our employees the challenges they seek to grow their careers and knowledge base. Your daily contributions to your team will be essential in meeting client objectives, goals and challenges. Are you ready to get started?
WSP USA (and all of its U.S. companies) is an Equal Opportunity Employer Race/Age/Color/Religion/Sex/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity/National Origin/Disability or Protected Veteran Status.
The selected candidate must be authorized to work in the United States.
NOTICE TO THIRD PARTY AGENCIES:
WSP does not accept unsolicited resumes from recruiters, employment agencies, or other staffing services. Unsolicited resumes include any resume or hiring document sent to WSP in the absence of a signed Service Agreement where WSP has expressly requested recruitment/staffing services specific to the position at hand. Any unsolicited resumes, including those submitted to hiring managers or other business leaders, will become the property of WSP and WSP will have the right to hire that candidate without reservation - no fee or other compensation will be owed or paid to the recruiter, employment agency, or other staffing service.

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