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Flood Control Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Geotechnical Senior Engineer

Sacramento, CA ยท On-site

$114K - $177K/yr

S. Bureau of Reclamation, or local flood control agencies is strongly preferred. In this role, you will provide engineering and consulting services for existing and proposed dam, levee, and flood ...

Water Resources Engineer

Salinas, CA ยท On-site

$7.1K - $9.8K/mo

MCWRA provides services related to the control of flood and storm waters in Monterey County, conservation, protection of water quality, reclamation of water, and the exchange of water. Fundamental to ...

Water Resources Engineer

Salinas, CA ยท On-site

$84K - $116K/yr

MCWRA provides services related to the control of flood and storm waters in Monterey County, conservation, protection of water quality, reclamation of water, and the exchange of water. Fundamental to ...

Proven expertise in grading, stormwater and flood control design, and water/wastewater systems. * Familiarity with California entitlement and permitting processes for development projects. * Strong ...

Opportunity for advancement The services to be provided consist of providing construction inspection related services in support of PW administered road, bridge, flood control, sewer, water, traffic ...

Opportunity for advancement The services to be provided consist of providing construction inspection related services in support of Public Works administered road, bridge, flood control, sewer, water ...

Electrical Inspector

Alhambra, CA ยท On-site

$70K/yr

Opportunity for advancement The services to be provided consist of providing construction inspection related services in support of Public Works administered road, bridge, flood control, sewer, water ...

Showing results 21-40

Flood Control information

See California salary details

$12

$24

$38

How much do flood control jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for flood control in California is $24.12, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.79 and $30.14 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a flood control job?

Flood control jobs involve planning, designing, implementing, and maintaining systems and strategies to prevent or mitigate the damage caused by floods. Professionals in this field may work on building levees, floodwalls, and drainage systems, or developing emergency response plans and risk assessments. These roles are crucial in protecting communities, infrastructure, and the environment from the adverse effects of flooding. Flood control specialists can work for government agencies, engineering firms, or environmental organizations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in flood control?

To thrive in Flood Control, you need expertise in hydrology, civil engineering principles, and environmental regulations, often supported by a degree in civil or environmental engineering. Familiarity with GIS mapping software, hydraulic modeling tools, and relevant certification such as Professional Engineer (PE) licensure is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, teamwork, and effective communication help professionals collaborate with agencies and communities. These skills are crucial for designing effective flood mitigation systems and ensuring public safety during flood events.

What are some of the main challenges faced by professionals working in flood control, and how are they typically addressed?

Professionals in flood control often deal with unpredictable weather patterns, aging infrastructure, and the need for rapid response during emergencies. Addressing these challenges involves regular maintenance of levees, dams, and drainage systems, as well as close collaboration with engineers, city planners, and emergency management teams. Staying updated on the latest forecasting technologies and participating in ongoing training are also important for effectively managing flood risks and protecting communities.

What is the difference between Flood Control vs Drainage Technician?

AspectFlood ControlDrainage Technician
CertificationsEnvironmental or civil engineering certifications, flood management trainingDrainage system certifications, environmental permits
Work EnvironmentFieldwork in flood-prone areas, project sitesConstruction sites, municipal drainage systems
Industry UsageGovernment agencies, flood prevention projectsMunicipalities, construction companies

Flood Control and Drainage Technicians both work in water management, but Flood Control focuses on preventing floods through large-scale projects, while Drainage Technicians maintain and install drainage systems. Both roles require similar certifications and often operate in related environments, but their specific responsibilities differ based on project scope and focus.

What job categories do people searching Flood Control jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Flood Control jobs in California are:

Infographic showing various Flood Control job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,160 per year, or $24.1 per hour.

Project Manager - Water Resilience / Surface Water / Flood Control

BKF

Irvine, CA โ€ข On-site

$123K - $170K/yr

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 28 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Lead and manage water resilience projects, ensuring timely completion, adherence to budgets, and compliance with regulatory standards

  • Coordinate with internal teams and external stakeholders, including regulatory agencies, to facilitate project progress and secure necessary approvals

  • Conduct technical analyses and assessments to inform project design, including hydrologic modeling, risk assessments, and feasibility studies


Job description

BKF is a multi-service infrastructure consulting firm providing civil engineering and surveying services across California, the Pacific Northwest, and beyond. With offices throughout California and the Portland area, BKF has served transportation, water resources, land development, government, and federal clients for over 110 years.

At BKF, you’ll find a unique opportunity to grow your career with intention. Our culture values professional autonomy, innovation, and meaningful collaboration across offices. We are proud to be recognized with the Great Place to Work certification for the second year in a row.

The Project Manager of Water Resilience will be key in spearheading projects to enhance community resilience to flooding, climate change, and green infrastructure. This pivotal role involves leading multi-disciplinary teams, managing projects from concept through execution, and engaging with clients and stakeholders to drive successful outcomes. Ideal candidates will bring a passion for water resilience, alongside expertise in project management and a robust engineering background.

Responsibilities

  • Lead and manage water resilience projects, ensuring timely completion, adherence to budgets, and compliance with regulatory standards
  • Coordinate with internal teams and external stakeholders, including regulatory agencies, to facilitate project progress and secure necessary approvals
  • Conduct technical analyses and assessments to inform project design, including hydrologic modeling, risk assessments, and feasibility studies
  • Develop project proposals, scope of work, schedules, and budgets, while ensuring alignment with client expectations
  • Engage clients and stakeholders in project development, providing updates and building supportive relationships
  • Mentor and train junior staff members, fostering a collaborative and growth-oriented environment within the team
  • Identify and pursue new business opportunities related to water resilience, contributing to BKF’s growth and market presence

Requirements

  • Bachelor’s degree in Civil/Environmental Engineering or a related field
  • 10-12 years of experience in water resources, with a focus on surface water, flood management and resilience projects
  • Proven project management experience in civil engineering, with strong skills in budget management and client relations
  • California PE licensure required
  • Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written
  • Proficiency in hydrologic modeling software and engineering design tools
  • Experience with preparing proposals for public agencies

Preferred Requirements:

  • Experience with multi-disciplinary project teams and public sector clients
  • Master's degree in Civil/Environmental Engineering or related areas
  • A strong network of contacts within the water resources field
  • Demonstrated commitment to sustainable and resilient design practices

Physical Demands: Must be able to regularly talk, hear and operate a computer, keyboard and mouse and occasionally lift, pull/push and carry up to 20 pounds with accommodations.

Work Conditions: Exposure to constant or intermittent sounds at a low or moderate level consistent with an office setting. Exposure to high-stress, fast-paced, deadline-oriented environment. Travel to other BKF locations and client sites may be required.

Benefits

  • The typical base salary range for this position is $123,000.00 - $170,000.00, annualized depending upon skills, experience, education, and geographical location. This is a salary position paid biweekly.
  • Competitive salaries, end of year bonuses, profit sharing, and 401k.
  • Generous paid time off packages.
  • 9 Paid Holidays.
  • Flexible schedules.
  • Education reimbursement, Paid annual dues for professional and societal organizations.
  • BKF offers competitive and award-winning benefits and perks. To learn more click here.

BKF Engineers provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

BKF Engineers does not accept unsolicited resumes from recruiters or employment agencies. In the event a recruiter or agency submits a resume or candidate without a previously signed agreement and a specific solicitation for the position or other approved engagement request for the position with BKF Engineers, BKF Engineers reserves the right to pursue and hire those candidate(s) without any financial obligation to the recruiter or agency. Any unsolicited submittals are done at the risk of the recruiter.

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