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Flood Risk Management Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

Stantec

Senior Water Resources Engineer

Laurel, MD · On-site

... flood mitigation, stormwater management, Green Infrastructure, and stream restoration design and hydrologic and hydraulic modeling, mapping and flood risk communication. Stantec is a leader in the ...

Stantec

Senior Water Resources Engineer

Laurel, MD · On-site

$117K - $176K/yr

... flood mitigation, stormwater management, Green Infrastructure, and stream restoration design and hydrologic and hydraulic modeling, mapping and flood risk communication. Stantec is a leader in the ...

Americas Region

DMV Water Leader

Washington, DC

Strong technical grounding in stormwater management, water resources planning, flood risk management, water infrastructure, advisory and sustainability. * Demonstrated experience working with ...

Freddie Mac

Portfolio Risk Lead - Servicing

Mclean, VA · On-site

Communicate enterprise-wide risk management issues and emerging risks and monitor effective and ... Provide oversight of SQA & Remedy results, provide SQA Annual Plan Assessment and Annual Flood ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsFlood Risk Management JobsFlood Risk Management Jobs in Washington, DC

Flood Risk Management information

See Washington, DC salary details

$49.3K

$117.5K

$189.7K

How much do flood risk management jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for flood risk management in Washington, DC is $117,455.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $82,100.00 and $149,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Flood Risk Management vs Floodplain Management?

AspectFlood Risk ManagementFloodplain Management
Primary FocusAssessing and reducing flood risks through planning, engineering, and policyManaging land use and development in flood-prone areas to minimize damage
CertificationsEnvironmental, civil engineering, or hydrology credentials often requiredEnvironmental planning, land use planning certifications common
Work EnvironmentField surveys, modeling, policy developmentLand use planning, community engagement, regulatory work
Industry UsageUsed by government agencies, environmental firms, urban plannersUsed by urban planners, environmental agencies, local governments

While both roles aim to mitigate flood impacts, Flood Risk Management focuses on assessing and reducing flood hazards through engineering and policy, whereas Floodplain Management emphasizes land use planning to prevent development in flood-prone areas. Understanding these differences helps clarify career paths and project scopes within flood-related fields.

Is risk management a good career?

Flood risk management is a specialized field that involves assessing and mitigating flood hazards through modeling, planning, and policy development. It often requires knowledge of hydrology, environmental science, and relevant regulations, with certifications like the Certified Floodplain Manager (CFM) being beneficial. The career offers opportunities in government agencies, consulting firms, and environmental organizations, with a focus on public safety and environmental protection.

How to become a flood engineer?

To become a flood engineer, typically a bachelor's degree in civil engineering, environmental engineering, or a related field is required. Gaining experience in hydrology, hydraulics, and flood risk assessment, along with professional engineering licensure, can enhance career prospects in this specialized field.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in Flood Risk Management, and how are these typically addressed within a team setting?

Professionals in Flood Risk Management often encounter challenges such as rapidly changing environmental conditions, complex regulatory requirements, and the need to balance technical solutions with community interests. These challenges are typically addressed through close collaboration within multidisciplinary teams, including engineers, environmental scientists, urban planners, and local authorities. Regular team meetings and project updates help ensure everyone stays informed and can quickly adapt strategies as new data or regulations emerge. Additionally, professionals often engage in ongoing training to stay current with industry best practices and technological advancements, which supports effective problem-solving and continued career growth.

How much does a certified floodplain manager make?

A certified floodplain manager typically earns between $60,000 and $90,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and employer. Certification from the Association of State Floodplain Managers (ASFPM) can enhance job prospects and salary potential in flood risk management roles.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in Flood Risk Management, and why are they important?

To excel in Flood Risk Management, you need expertise in hydrology, environmental science, data analysis, and a degree in civil or environmental engineering or a related field. Familiarity with GIS software, flood modeling tools (such as HEC-RAS or MIKE FLOOD), and relevant certifications like Certified Floodplain Manager (CFM) are typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, communication skills, and project management make professionals stand out in this area. These skills and qualifications are crucial for accurately assessing risks, designing effective mitigation strategies, and ensuring the safety and resilience of communities against flooding.

What jobs can I do with a risk management degree?

A risk management degree can lead to roles such as Flood Risk Analyst, Flood Risk Manager, or Environmental Risk Consultant, where analyzing and mitigating flood hazards is essential. These jobs often require skills in data analysis, GIS tools, and understanding of environmental regulations, with certifications like the Certified Floodplain Manager (CFM) being advantageous.

What is flood risk management?

Flood risk management is the process of assessing, planning, and implementing measures to reduce the likelihood and impact of flooding on communities, infrastructure, and the environment. It involves analyzing flood hazards, mapping risk areas, developing warning systems, and designing structural and non-structural solutions like levees, zoning regulations, and emergency preparedness plans. The goal is to minimize damage, protect lives, and enhance community resilience in the face of potential flooding events.
What are popular job titles related to Flood Risk Management jobs in Washington, DC? For Flood Risk Management jobs in Washington, DC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Flood Risk Management jobs in Washington, DC look for? The top searched job categories for Flood Risk Management jobs in Washington, DC are:
Flood Risk Management jobs near you
Infographic showing various Flood Risk Management job openings in Washington, DC as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 5% Summer. Highlights an 89% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $117,455 per year, or $56.5 per hour.
Senior Program Management Specialist - FEMA Risk Mitigation & Resilience

Senior Program Management Specialist - FEMA Risk Mitigation & Resilience

CDM Smith

Fairfax, VA

Other

Posted 4 days ago

CDM Smith rating

9.1

Company rating: 9.1 out of 10

Based on 18 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

39th of 442 rated engineering

Job description

Company Overview

Check out this video and find out why our team loves to work here!
Join Us! CDM Smith – where amazing career journeys unfold.
Imagine a place committed to offering an unmatched employee experience. Where you work on projects that are meaningful to you. Where you play an active part in shaping your career journey. Where your co-workers are invested in you and your success. Where you are encouraged and supported to do your very best and given the tools and resources to do so. Where it’s a priority that the company takes good care of you and your family.
Our employees are the heart of our company. As an employer of choice, our goal is to provide a challenging, progressive and inclusive work environment which fosters personal leadership, career growth and development for every employee. We value passionate individuals who challenge the norm, deliver world-class solutions and bring diverse perspectives. Join our team, and together we will make a difference and change the world.


Job Description

At CDM Smith, we are delivering solutions that strengthen communities, protect critical infrastructure, and improve resilience against natural hazards. Our Federal Services team supports federal, state agencies, local governments, tribal nations, and territorial partners in developing and implementing innovative hazard mitigation and resilience programs. Join our team and help clients reduce risk, enhance preparedness, and invest in long-term community resilience.  

Job Summary 

CDM Smith is seeking a highly motivated and experienced professional to join our Federal Services Unit as a Senior Program Management Specialist focused on  Hazard Mitigation, Risk Assessments, Risk Reduction, and Community Resilience Programs. 

The successful candidate will support business development, program management, client engagement, and project delivery for FEMA and state emergency management clients. This role requires a strong understanding of hazard mitigation planning, mitigation grant programs, resilience strategies, flood risk data and assessments, and implementation of mitigation actions that reduce future disaster losses. 

The position will serve as a technical and programmatic leader supporting FEMA initiatives, including Risk Mapping, Assessment, and Planning (Risk MAP), Hazard Mitigation Assistance (HMA), Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP), Flood Mitigation Assistance (FMA), Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) successor initiatives, mitigation planning, risk assessment, benefit-cost analysis, and resilience program implementation.  

Key Responsibilities 

Business Development & Client Engagement 

  • Lead and support strategic business development efforts focused on FEMA, DHS, state emergency management agencies, and resilience-related opportunities. 

  • Develop client relationships and identify opportunities to expand CDM Smith's hazard mitigation, resilience, and risk reduction portfolio. 

  • Support capture planning, proposal development, staffing strategies, and interview preparation for Federal opportunities. 

  • Represent CDM Smith at industry conferences, resilience forums, and emergency management events. 

Technical Leadership 

  • Provide subject matter expertise in:  

  • Hazard Mitigation Planning 

  • Community Resilience 

  • Risk and Vulnerability Assessment 

  • FEMA Hazard Mitigation Assistance Programs 

  • Floodplain Management 

  • Disaster Recovery and Risk Reduction 

  • Benefit-Cost Analysis (BCA) 

  • Environmental Planning and Historic Preservation (EHP) 

  • Risk MAP and Flood Risk Reduction Programs 

  • Advise project teams on mitigation strategies, resilience investments, and implementation approaches that reduce long-term disaster risk.  

Team Leadership 

  • Foster collaboration across engineering, planning, environmental, emergency management, and program management disciplines. 

  • Support recruitment, staff development, and succession planning efforts. 


Skills & Abilities

  • Strategic thinking and problem-solving.

  • Program and project leadership.

  • Risk identification and mitigation planning.

  • Stakeholder engagement and facilitation.

  • Federal client management.

  • Financial management and project controls.

  • Business development and capture planning.

  • Strong analytical and organizational capabilities.

  • Ability to communicate complex technical concepts to executive and non-technical audiences. 


Qualifications

· Bachelor's degree. 

· 15 years of related experience.

· Domestic and/or international travel may be required. The frequency of travel is contingent on specific duties, responsibilities, and the essential functions of the position, which may vary depending on workload and project demands. Equivalent additional directly related experience will be considered in lieu of a degree.


Preferred Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Emergency Management, Planning, Public Administration, Environmental Science, Business, or related field.

  • Minimum eight (8) years of progressively responsible experience in program management, hazard mitigation, resilience planning, emergency management, or related disciplines.

  • Demonstrated experience supporting FEMA programs or federally funded resilience initiatives.

  • Experience managing multidisciplinary projects and client relationships.

  • Strong written and verbal communication skills.

  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively across geographically dispersed teams. 

  • Experience supporting FEMA HMA programs, including HMGP, FMA, and mitigation planning initiatives.

  • Experience with FEMA Risk MAP, floodplain management, disaster recovery, or resilience planning programs.

  • PMP, CFM, PE, CEM, AICP, or related professional certification preferred. 

  • Experience supporting federal contract execution and business development.

  • Familiarity with emergency management operations and disaster recovery programs. 


Knowledge of:  

 

  • Stafford Act 

  • National Mitigation Framework 

  • FEMA Hazard Mitigation Assistance Guidance 

  • FEMA mitigation planning requirements 

  • Benefit-Cost Analysis methodologies 


Amount of Travel Required
10% or less
EEO Statement
We attract the best people in the industry, supporting their efforts to learn and grow. We strive to create a challenging and progressive work environment. We provide career opportunities that span a variety of disciplines and geographic locations, with projects that our employees plan, design, build and operate as diverse as the needs of our clients. CDM Smith Inc. and its divisions and subsidiaries are an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, pregnancy related conditions, childbirth and related medical conditions, sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression), national origin, age, marital status, physical or mental disability, veteran status, citizenship status, genetic information or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.
Background Check and Drug Testing Information
CDM Smith Inc. and its divisions and subsidiaries (hereafter collectively referred to as "CDM Smith") reserves the right to require background checks including criminal, employment, education, licensure, etc. as well as credit and motor vehicle when applicable for certain positions. In addition, CDM Smith may conduct drug testing for designated positions. Background checks are conducted after an offer of employment has been made in the United States. The timing of when background checks will be conducted on candidates for positions outside the United States will vary based on country statutory law but in no case, will the background check precede an interview. CDM Smith will conduct interviews of qualified individuals prior to requesting a criminal background check, and no job application submitted prior to such interview shall inquire into an applicant's criminal history. If this position is subject to a background check for any convictions related to its responsibilities and requirements, employment will be contingent upon successful completion of a background investigation including criminal history. Criminal history will not automatically disqualify a candidate. In addition, during employment individuals may be required by CDM Smith or a CDM Smith client to successfully complete additional background checks, including motor vehicle record as well as drug testing.
Massachusetts Applicants
It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.
Pay Range Min
USD $147,056.00
Pay Range Max
USD $272,043.00
Additional Pay Range Information
CDM Smith is committed to fair and equitable compensation practices. This pay range is a good faith estimate representative of all experience levels for the geographic location assigned to the position. In addition to geographic location, a candidate's salary is determined by several other factors including, but not limited to, the role, function and associated responsibilities, relevant work experience, skills, required certifications, and education/training.
Additional Compensation
All bonuses at CDM Smith are discretionary and may or may not apply to this position.
Visa Sponsorship Available
No-We will not support sponsorship in the United States, i.e. H-1B or TN Visas for this position
Agency Disclaimer
All vendors must have a signed CDM Smith Placement Agreement from the CDM Smith Talent Acquisition Manager to receive payment for your placement. Verbal or written commitments from any other member of the CDM Smith Inc. and its divisions and subsidiaries staff will not be considered binding terms. All unsolicited resumes sent to CDM Smith Inc. and its divisions and subsidiaries and any resume submitted to any employee outside of CDM Smith Talent Acquisition Team will be considered property of CDM Smith. CDM Smith Inc. and its divisions and subsidiaries will not be held liable to pay a placement fee.Qualifications:

· Bachelor's degree. 

· 15 years of related experience.

· Domestic and/or international travel may be required. The frequency of travel is contingent on specific duties, responsibilities, and the essential functions of the position, which may vary depending on workload and project demands. Equivalent additional directly related experience will be considered in lieu of a degree.

Education:UNAVAILABLEEmployment Type: UNAVAILABLE

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About CDM Smith

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CDM Smith is a distinguished name in the engineering and construction industry, providing insightful consulting, designing, and execution services. Based in Boston, Massachusetts, US, this full-service engineering and construction firm was founded in 1947 and has been contributing to the national and global infrastructure ever since. Serving across diverse sectors like transportation, environment, water, energy, and facilities, they have built a reputation for excellence. The company firmly stands on its mission of delivering lasting, superior solutions to the world's complex challenges, thereby ensuring their clients create a transformative impact.

Industry

Civil engineering construction

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Cambridge, MA, US

Year founded

1947

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