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Entry Level Water Resources Engineer Jobs in California

Stantec

Water Resources EIT

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$84K - $115K/yr

You will apply and grow your understanding of water resources engineering, analysis, and planning to help answer our clients' water resource management questions. We're looking for inquisitive ...

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

Entry Level Water Resources Engineer information

See California salary details

$28.6K

$92.7K

$131.8K

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

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level water resources 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 resources engineer do?

An Entry Level Water Resources Engineer assists in designing, analyzing, and managing projects related to water supply, flood control, stormwater management, and environmental protection. They work under the supervision of senior engineers to collect and analyze data, use modeling software, and help prepare reports and plans. Their responsibilities may also include supporting field investigations and ensuring compliance with environmental regulations. This role serves as a foundation for developing specialized expertise in water resources engineering.

What types of projects and responsibilities can an entry level water resources engineer expect in their first year?

As an Entry Level Water Resources Engineer, you can expect to work on a variety of projects such as stormwater management, floodplain analysis, watershed modeling, and hydraulic/hydrologic studies. Typical responsibilities include data collection, performing calculations, preparing technical reports, and assisting with the design of water infrastructure under the guidance of senior engineers. You will likely collaborate closely with multidisciplinary teams, including environmental scientists, civil engineers, and CAD technicians, providing a great opportunity to learn and develop your skills. The role often involves both office and occasional fieldwork, allowing you to gain hands-on experience while contributing to meaningful projects.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Water Resources Engineer, you need a solid background in civil or environmental engineering, hydrology, and mathematics, typically supported by a relevant bachelor's degree. Familiarity with engineering software such as AutoCAD, HEC-RAS, GIS, and proficiency in data analysis tools is often required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for collaborating with teams and stakeholders. These competencies enable accurate project design, regulatory compliance, and successful delivery of water resource solutions.

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

AspectEntry Level Water Resources EngineerWater Resources Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in Civil or Environmental EngineeringAssociate's degree or technical certification in water systems
Work EnvironmentDesign, analysis, project planning in office and fieldFieldwork, data collection, equipment maintenance
Employer & Industry UsageEngineering firms, government agencies, consultingMunicipal water departments, environmental agencies
Common Search & ComparisonEntry Level Water Resources EngineerWater Resources Technician

The main difference is that Entry Level Water Resources Engineers focus on designing and analyzing water systems, requiring an engineering degree, while Water Resources Technicians handle field data collection and equipment, often with technical certifications. Engineers typically work in planning and design roles, whereas technicians support operational tasks in water management.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Entry Level Water Resources Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Water Resources Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $92,664 per year, or $44.5 per hour.

Water Resources Engineer in Training

Wilson & Company, Inc., Engineers & Architects

San Bernardino, CA • On-site

$85 - $100/hr

Other

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

Wilson & Company, Inc., Engineers & Architects is currently seeking an experienced Engineer in Training professional to support the Water Resources design team in our Phoenix office. The position will focus primarily on water-related projects, which can include drainage/flood control including dams and levees, potable/supply water infrastructure, and sanitary/wastewater infrastructure engineering services. We are seeking a self-motivated individual who is eager to learn and grow as a professional working in a fast-paced team environment. Wilson & Company offers top tier benefits, strives to enable a suitable work-life balance for all employees, and proudly maintains collaborative and positive work environments.Please note, this position is not currently considering new graduates.Essential Job Functions:Support field investigations or assessments.Perform design engineering calculations.Assist in the design of various types of water and stormwater infrastructure.Provide data collection, analysis, and reporting.Participate with the writing and the production of project reports.Work under the direct guidance and mentorship of senior engineers.Required Experience:BS Degree in Civil Engineering, Environmental Engineering, or Water Resource Engineering from an EAC/ABET-accredited college or university. Masters degrees will receive due consideration.EIT Certification (i.e., passed Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam).2+ year(s) of relevant experience, preferably in construction plan production, design calculations, and/or technical writingKnowledge in the use of Autodesk (e.g., AutoCAD, Civil3D) or Bentley (e.g., Microstation, InRoads) design platforms is a plus.Experience with commercial engineering modeling software such as WaterCAD, SewerCAD, StormCAD, and USACE HEC programs is a plus.Geographical Information Systems (GIS) working experience is a plus.Please note that Wilson & Company is not currently sponsoring applicants for work visas.Annual Salary Range: $85,000 - $100,000+ depending on experienceAbout Us:For nearly a century, Wilson & Company, Inc., Engineers & Architects, has provided award-winning engineering, architecture, planning, environmental, surveying, geospatial, and construction management services. With employees across multiple offices in the Midwest, Southwest, Rocky Mountain, and Western regions in the United States, we bring people together to practice their craft, create value, and accomplish great things.Guided by our purpose, we help clients move from concept to completion, transforming unused spaces into productive places, underutilized facilities into efficient ones, and rural or urban challenges into achievable solutions.At Wilson & Company, we focus on your specific needs, delivering excellence with lasting Higher Relationships in mind. By employing our core values—discipline, intensity, collaboration, shared ownership, and solutions—we create genuine experiences and lasting connections for our clients, employees, and communities.We support our employees’ success and well-being with a comprehensive benefits package, including options for health insurance, life insurance, disability coverage, paid time off, and retirement savings plans. We are proud to be an EEO employer and maintain a drug-free workplace, conducting pre-employment background checks.Join us and be part of a culture committed to helping you achieve personal and professional success. #J-18808-Ljbffr

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