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Entry Level Water Resources Engineering Jobs in Iowa

HDR

Water Resources Engineer

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$77K - $105K/yr

Provide project engineering and task management, conduct difficult to complex hydraulic and ... Conduct water resources planning, plan formulation and concept development, and develop planning ...

HDR

Water Resources Engineer

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$77K - $105K/yr

Provide project engineering and task management, conduct difficult to complex hydraulic and ... Conduct water resources planning, plan formulation and concept development, and develop planning ...

HDR

Water Resources EIT/Coordinator

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$77K - $105K/yr

Work under project engineers on the application of various design engineering and modeling techniques in the development of water resource projects for federal, state and local municipalities * Focus ...

HDR

Water Resources EIT/Coordinator

Des Moines, IA

$77K - $105K/yr

Work under project engineers on the application of various design engineering and modeling techniques in the development of water resource projects for federal, state and local municipalities * Focus ...

HNTB

Water Resources Engineer II

Des Moines, IA

$77K - $105K/yr

... water resources to lead project design. Join our more than 110 years of experience and be part of ... Applies engineering techniques, procedures and design criteria for projects ranging in size and ...

U.S. Navy

Civil Engineer

Clinton, IA

$2.9K - $5.8K/mo

... water resources engineering, geotechnical engineering, hydraulic engineering, land surveying, structural engineering, transportation engineering and community planning. You'll quickly find yourself ...

U.S. Navy

Civil Engineer

Des Moines, IA

$2.9K - $5.8K/mo

... water resources engineering, geotechnical engineering, hydraulic engineering, land surveying, structural engineering, transportation engineering and community planning. You'll quickly find yourself ...

U.S. Navy

Civil Engineer

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$2.9K - $5.8K/mo

... water resources engineering, geotechnical engineering, hydraulic engineering, land surveying, structural engineering, transportation engineering and community planning. You'll quickly find yourself ...

U.S. Navy

Civil Engineer

Clinton, IA · On-site

$2.9K - $5.8K/mo

... water resources engineering, geotechnical engineering, hydraulic engineering, land surveying, structural engineering, transportation engineering and community planning. You'll quickly find yourself ...

U.S. Navy

Civil Engineer

Davenport, IA · On-site

$2.9K - $5.8K/mo

... water resources engineering, geotechnical engineering, hydraulic engineering, land surveying, structural engineering, transportation engineering and community planning. You'll quickly find yourself ...

U.S. Navy

Civil Engineer

Waterloo, IA · On-site

$2.9K - $5.8K/mo

... water resources engineering, geotechnical engineering, hydraulic engineering, land surveying, structural engineering, transportation engineering and community planning. You'll quickly find yourself ...

U.S. Navy

Civil Engineer

Waterloo, IA

$2.9K - $5.8K/mo

... water resources engineering, geotechnical engineering, hydraulic engineering, land surveying, structural engineering, transportation engineering and community planning. You'll quickly find yourself ...

U.S. Navy

Civil Engineer

Iowa City, IA

$2.9K - $5.8K/mo

... water resources engineering, geotechnical engineering, hydraulic engineering, land surveying, structural engineering, transportation engineering and community planning. You'll quickly find yourself ...

U.S. Navy

Civil Engineer

Davenport, IA

$2.9K - $5.8K/mo

... water resources engineering, geotechnical engineering, hydraulic engineering, land surveying, structural engineering, transportation engineering and community planning. You'll quickly find yourself ...

U.S. Navy

Civil Engineer

Sioux City, IA · On-site

$2.9K - $5.8K/mo

... water resources engineering, geotechnical engineering, hydraulic engineering, land surveying, structural engineering, transportation engineering and community planning. You'll quickly find yourself ...

U.S. Navy

Civil Engineer

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$2.9K - $5.8K/mo

... water resources engineering, geotechnical engineering, hydraulic engineering, land surveying, structural engineering, transportation engineering and community planning. You'll quickly find yourself ...

U.S. Navy

Civil Engineer

Cedar Rapids, IA

$2.9K - $5.8K/mo

... water resources engineering, geotechnical engineering, hydraulic engineering, land surveying, structural engineering, transportation engineering and community planning. You'll quickly find yourself ...

U.S. Navy

Civil Engineer

Iowa City, IA · On-site

$2.9K - $5.8K/mo

... water resources engineering, geotechnical engineering, hydraulic engineering, land surveying, structural engineering, transportation engineering and community planning. You'll quickly find yourself ...

U.S. Navy

Civil Engineer

Sioux City, IA

$2.9K - $5.8K/mo

... water resources engineering, geotechnical engineering, hydraulic engineering, land surveying, structural engineering, transportation engineering and community planning. You'll quickly find yourself ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsWater Resources Engineering JobsEntry Level Water Resources Engineering JobsEntry Level Water Resources Engineering Jobs in Iowa

Entry Level Water Resources Engineering information

See Iowa salary details

$21.4K

$64.7K

$111.5K

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

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level water resources engineering in Iowa is $64,710.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $37,306.00 and $84,167.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an entry level water resources engineer do?

Entry level water resources engineers assist in designing, analyzing, and managing systems related to water, such as stormwater management, flood control, and water supply projects. Their responsibilities often include collecting and interpreting data, preparing reports, using modeling software, and supporting senior engineers on project tasks. They may also help with site inspections, permitting, and ensuring projects comply with environmental regulations. This role is foundational for learning the technical and regulatory aspects of water resources engineering.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Water Resources Engineer, you need a bachelor's degree in civil or environmental engineering, with knowledge of hydrology, hydraulics, and water resources principles. Familiarity with technical tools such as AutoCAD, GIS software, HEC-RAS, and potentially Engineer-in-Training (EIT) certification is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication are essential soft skills in this role. These skills ensure accurate analysis, effective project collaboration, and successful implementation of water management solutions.

What are some common challenges faced by an entry level water resources engineer during their first year on the job?

Entry level water resources engineers often encounter challenges such as learning to interpret and apply complex regulatory requirements, mastering specialized modeling software, and adapting to the fast-paced, multidisciplinary nature of project teams. New engineers are typically involved in tasks like collecting field data, preparing technical reports, and assisting with the design of stormwater or flood management systems. Balancing multiple projects and communicating effectively with senior engineers, environmental scientists, and clients can also be demanding, but these experiences provide valuable learning and growth opportunities.

What is the difference between Entry Level Water Resources Engineering vs Entry Level Civil Engineering?

AspectEntry Level Water Resources EngineeringEntry Level Civil Engineering
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Civil or Environmental Engineering, Engineer-in-Training (EIT) certification often preferredBachelor's in Civil Engineering, EIT certification often required
Work EnvironmentDesigning water systems, flood control projects, hydrology studies, often in consulting firms or government agenciesBroader infrastructure projects including roads, bridges, and buildings, in various engineering firms or public agencies
Industry UsageSpecialized in water-related projects and environmental considerationsGeneral civil infrastructure projects, including water, transportation, and structural work

Entry Level Water Resources Engineering focuses specifically on water-related projects like hydrology and flood management, while Entry Level Civil Engineering covers a broader range of infrastructure projects. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and certifications but differ in specialization and project types.

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Water Resources Engineering jobs in Iowa? For Entry Level Water Resources Engineering jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Water Resources Engineering jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Water Resources Engineering jobs in Iowa are:
Entry Level Water Resources Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Water Resources Engineering job openings in Iowa 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 $64,710 per year, or $31.1 per hour.

Water Resources Engineer

HDR

Des Moines, IA • On-site

$77K - $105K/yr

Other

Posted 19 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. 
We believe water is more than a resource, it's a shared responsibility. As part of our Water Business Group, you'll help shape how communities manage water for generations to come. From delivering safe drinking water and treating wastewater responsibly to developing sustainable water supplies and protecting lives and property through flood control, your work will directly support public health, environmental sustainability, and infrastructure resilience.  We bring together experts across disciplines to solve complex challenges with bold thinking and technical excellence. Whether you're modernizing aging systems or pioneering innovative approaches, your contributions will make a meaningful difference in people's lives. This isn't just a job, it's a chance to lead change, drive progress, and leave a lasting legacy.

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
  •  Familiarity with H&H design software including HEC-HMS, HEC-RAS, SRH-2D, SWMM, InfoWorks or other channel/conduit hydraulic analysis software

*LI-BC1

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

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

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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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