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Entry Level Water Resources 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 · 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 ...

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 ...

New

Dewberry

Water Resources Engineering Intern

Gainesville, VA · 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

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 ...

New

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

Entry Level Water Resources Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$28.8K

$93.1K

$132.4K

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

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level water resources 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.

How to become an entry level water resources engineer?

To become an entry-level water resources engineer, typically a bachelor's degree in civil engineering, environmental engineering, or a related field is required. Gaining experience through internships, developing skills in hydraulic modeling and GIS software, and obtaining relevant certifications such as Engineer-in-Training (EIT) can improve job prospects.

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.

Are water resources engineers in demand?

Water resources engineers are in demand due to increasing infrastructure needs, environmental concerns, and water management challenges. The field offers job stability, especially for those with skills in hydrology, GIS, and environmental regulations, and opportunities are expected to grow as water-related issues become more prominent globally.

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 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 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 do you need to be an entry level water resources engineer?

To become an entry-level water resources engineer, a bachelor's degree in civil engineering, environmental engineering, or a related field is typically required. Knowledge of hydrology, water systems, and proficiency with engineering software like AutoCAD or GIS are also important, along with strong analytical and communication skills.
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Water Resources Engineer jobs in Virginia? For Entry Level Water Resources Engineer jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Water Resources Engineer jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Water Resources Engineer jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Entry Level Water Resources Engineer jobs? Cities in Virginia 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 Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $93,088 per year, or $44.8 per hour.

Water Resources Engineer

HDR

Vienna, VA • On-site

$79K - $108K/yr

Other

Re-posted 29 days ago

HDR rating

9.1

Company rating: 9.1 out of 10

Based on 57 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

38th of 441 rated engineering

Job description

At HDR, our employee-owners are fully engaged in creating a welcoming environment where each of us is valued and respected, a place where everyone is empowered to bring their authentic selves and novel ideas to work every day. As we foster a culture of inclusion throughout our company and within our communities, we constantly ask ourselves: What is our impact on the world?
Watch Our Story:' https://www.hdrinc.com/our-story'
Each and every role throughout our organization makes a difference in our ability to change the world for the better. Read further to learn how you could help make great things possible not only in your community, but around the world.

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 collection systems modeling and design; collect, assimilate and present data in reports, memos and public forums; lead production of design calculations and technical reports; and lead preparation of engineering plans and specifications for design of detention facilities, storm drains, flood control facilities and other hydraulic structures
  • Work independently in addition to planning, organizing and assisting groups of medium to large teams of professionals and technicians dependent on project/task
  • Conduct water resources planning, plan formulation and concept development, and develop planning documentation
  • Assist in water resources permitting efforts
  • Perform other duties as needed
Preferred Qualifications
  • MS degree
  • A minimum of 3 years experience in water resources engineering projects
  • Experience with HEC-1, HEC-HMS, HEC-RAS, GEO-RAS, storm drain system analysis
  • Preference given to local candidates

*LI-MJ1

Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering or equivalent field
  • Previous experience in water resources engineering projects
  • Requires professional engineering license recognized by the licensing board for the location of the position offered. Example: Professional Engineer (PE or P.Eng) license.
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills
  • An attitude and commitment to being an active participant of our employee-owned culture is a must

What We Believe
HDR is our company. Together, we build on each other's life experiences and perspectives to make great things possible every day. This shapes our collaborative culture, encourages organizational trust and connects us closer to the clients and communities we serve.
Our Commitment
As employee owners, we all have a role in creating an inclusive environment where each of us is welcomed, valued, respected and empowered to bring our authentic selves to work every day.
Our eight Employee Network Groups (Asian Pacific, Black, Hispanic/Latino(a), LGBTQ+, People with Disabilities, Veterans, Women, Young Professionals) help create a sense of belonging and foster a supportive environment where everyone is empowered to engage and contribute. Each group has an executive sponsor and is open to all employees.

What HDR employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

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About HDR

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At HDR, we specialize in engineering, architecture, environmental and construction services. While we are most well-known for adding beauty and structure to communities through high-performance buildings and smart infrastructure, we provide much more than that. We create an unshakable foundation for progress because our multidisciplinary teams also include scientists, economists, builders, analysts and artists.

Industry

Specialized design services

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Omaha, NE, US

Year founded

1917

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