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Flood Modeling Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Project / Civil Engineer

Oakland, CA

$97K - $130K/yr

This position is ideal for an engineer with 3 to 8 years of water resources experience who is passionate about hydrologic and hydraulic modeling, flood risk reduction, and development of resilient ...

This position is ideal for an engineer with 3 to 8 years of water resources experience who is passionate about hydrologic and hydraulic modeling, flood risk reduction, and development of resilient ...

Project Engineer

Orange, CA ยท On-site

$48.25 - $59.25/hr

Develop hydrologic and hydraulic models for storm drain, watershed, floodplain, pump station, and flood control projects. * Build, calibrate, validate, and maintain engineering models using ...

Project Engineer

Placentia, CA ยท On-site

$138.42/hr

Develop hydrologic and hydraulic models for storm drain, watershed, floodplain, pump station, and flood control projects. * Build, calibrate, validate, and maintain engineering models using ...

Project Engineer

Oakland, CA ยท On-site

$48.25 - $59.25/hr

Develop hydrologic and hydraulic models for storm drain, watershed, floodplain, pump station, and flood control projects. * Build, calibrate, validate, and maintain engineering models using ...

Project Engineer

San Diego, CA ยท On-site

$48.25 - $59.25/hr

Develop hydrologic and hydraulic models for storm drain, watershed, floodplain, pump station, and flood control projects. * Build, calibrate, validate, and maintain engineering models using ...

Water Resources Engineer

Sacramento, CA ยท On-site

$84K - $115K/yr

Candidates for the position should have experience in hydrologic & hydraulic (H&H) modeling and analysis, flood risk analysis, drainage design, dam safety, and H&H in support of civil design. Our ...

Project Engineer

Orange, CA ยท On-site

$48.25 - $59.25/hr

Develop hydrologic and hydraulic models for storm drain, watershed, floodplain, pump station, and flood control projects. * Build, calibrate, validate, and maintain engineering models using ...

Water Resources Engineer

Sacramento, CA ยท On-site

$84K - $115K/yr

Candidates for the position should have experience in hydrologic & hydraulic (H&H) modeling and analysis, flood risk analysis, drainage design, dam safety, and H&H in support of civil design. Our ...

Project Engineer

Oakland, CA ยท On-site

$48.25 - $59.25/hr

Develop hydrologic and hydraulic models for storm drain, watershed, floodplain, pump station, and flood control projects. * Build, calibrate, validate, and maintain engineering models using ...

Develop hydrologic and hydraulic models for storm drain, watershed, floodplain, pump station, and flood control projects. * Build, calibrate, validate, and maintain engineering models using ...

Project Engineer

Oakland, CA ยท On-site

$48.25 - $59.25/hr

Develop hydrologic and hydraulic models for storm drain, watershed, floodplain, pump station, and flood control projects. * Build, calibrate, validate, and maintain engineering models using ...

Develop hydrologic and hydraulic models for storm drain, watershed, floodplain, pump station, and flood control projects. * Build, calibrate, validate, and maintain engineering models using ...

Showing results 21-40

Flood Modeling information

See California salary details

$20.1K

$73.3K

$170.9K

How much do flood modeling jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for flood modeling in California is $73,266.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $36,721.00 and $98,412.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is flood modeling?

A Flood Modeling job involves using computer simulations and data analysis to predict and assess flood risks. Professionals in this field analyze rainfall patterns, land topography, and hydrological data to create models that help in flood preparedness and mitigation. They often work with government agencies, environmental organizations, or private firms to develop flood maps, design drainage systems, and support emergency planning. Strong skills in GIS, hydrodynamic modeling, and statistical analysis are typically required for this role.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of someone working in flood modeling?

Professionals in Flood Modeling typically spend their days gathering and analyzing hydrological and geographical data, running simulations using modeling software, and interpreting results to assess flood risks. They often prepare technical reports, maps, and presentations for stakeholders such as government agencies, engineers, or urban planners. Additionally, collaboration with other scientists, engineers, and environmental specialists is common to ensure comprehensive project outcomes. The work may involve site visits, data validation, and responding quickly to urgent events or client requests, offering both variety and real-world impact.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in flood modeling, and why are they important?

To thrive in Flood Modeling, you need a solid background in hydrology, civil or environmental engineering, or a related field, along with strong quantitative and analytical skills. Familiarity with flood modeling software (such as HEC-RAS, MIKE FLOOD, or ArcGIS), GIS applications, and possibly relevant certifications (e.g., Certified Floodplain Manager) is highly valued. Attention to detail, strong communication abilities, and the capacity to work collaboratively with multidisciplinary teams are important soft skills. These abilities are essential for producing reliable flood risk assessments, effectively conveying complex data, and supporting decision-making in flood management projects.

What are the most commonly searched types of Flood Modeling jobs in California?

The most popular types of Flood Modeling jobs in California are:

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

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

Infographic showing various Flood Modeling job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $73,266 per year, or $35.2 per hour.

Surface Water / Flood Control Project Manager - Water Infrastructure Design

BKF

Temecula, CA โ€ข On-site

$123K - $170K/yr

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 26 days ago


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 Surface Water/Flood Control will be key in spearheading projects to enhance community resilience to flooding, climate change, and water scarcity. 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
  • 5+ 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 or ability to obtain licensure within 12 months
  • Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written
  • Proficiency in hydrologic modeling software and engineering design tools

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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