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Flood Risk Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Project Engineer

Orange, CA · On-site

$48.25 - $59.25/hr

Perform flood risk, drainage capacity, and infrastructure deficiency analyses. * Evaluate alternatives and develop Capital Improvement Program (CIP) recommendations. * Develop and manage GIS ...

Project Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$48.25 - $59.25/hr

Perform flood risk, drainage capacity, and infrastructure deficiency analyses. * Evaluate alternatives and develop Capital Improvement Program (CIP) recommendations. * Develop and manage GIS ...

Project Engineer

Oakland, CA · On-site

$66.47 - $81.62/hr

Perform flood risk, drainage capacity, and infrastructure deficiency analyses. * Evaluate alternatives and develop Capital Improvement Program (CIP) recommendations. * Develop and manage GIS ...

Project Engineer

Placentia, CA · On-site

$138.42/hr

Perform flood risk, drainage capacity, and infrastructure deficiency analyses. * Evaluate alternatives and develop Capital Improvement Program (CIP) recommendations. * Develop and manage GIS ...

Project Engineer

Oakland, CA · On-site

$48.25 - $59.25/hr

Perform flood risk, drainage capacity, and infrastructure deficiency analyses. * Evaluate alternatives and develop Capital Improvement Program (CIP) recommendations. * Develop and manage GIS ...

Project Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$48.25 - $59.25/hr

Perform flood risk, drainage capacity, and infrastructure deficiency analyses. * Evaluate alternatives and develop Capital Improvement Program (CIP) recommendations. * Develop and manage GIS ...

Project Engineer

Orange, CA · On-site

$48.25 - $59.25/hr

Perform flood risk, drainage capacity, and infrastructure deficiency analyses. * Evaluate alternatives and develop Capital Improvement Program (CIP) recommendations. * Develop and manage GIS ...

Project Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$48.25 - $59.25/hr

Perform flood risk, drainage capacity, and infrastructure deficiency analyses. * Evaluate alternatives and develop Capital Improvement Program (CIP) recommendations. * Develop and manage GIS ...

Project Engineer

Oakland, CA

$48.25 - $59.25/hr

Perform flood risk, drainage capacity, and infrastructure deficiency analyses. * Evaluate alternatives and develop Capital Improvement Program (CIP) recommendations. * Develop and manage GIS ...

Project Engineer

Oakland, CA · On-site

$48.25 - $59.25/hr

Perform flood risk, drainage capacity, and infrastructure deficiency analyses. * Evaluate alternatives and develop Capital Improvement Program (CIP) recommendations. * Develop and manage GIS ...

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 risk ...

Showing results 21-40

Flood Risk information

See California salary details

$14

$29

$73

How much do flood risk jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for flood risk in California is $29.94, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.23 and $38.17 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a flood risk?

A Flood Risk job involves assessing, managing, and mitigating the risks associated with flooding. Professionals in this field analyze flood data, create models, and develop strategies to protect communities, businesses, and infrastructure from flood damage. They work with government agencies, environmental organizations, and private companies to ensure compliance with regulations and improve flood resilience. Responsibilities may include risk assessments, designing flood defenses, and advising on land-use planning. This role typically requires expertise in hydrology, engineering, or environmental science.

What types of projects do flood risk professionals typically work on?

Flood risk professionals often work on a variety of projects, including flood hazard assessments for new developments, designing mitigation measures for at-risk areas, and supporting strategic floodplain management for local governments. They may contribute to data collection and analysis, perform hydraulic and hydrological modeling, and prepare technical reports to inform planning and policy decisions. Typical clients include engineering consultancies, government agencies, water utilities, and insurance companies. Collaborating closely with engineers, urban planners, and environmental specialists, these professionals play a key role in reducing vulnerability to flooding and supporting resilient communities.

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

To thrive in a Flood Risk role, you need a strong background in civil engineering, environmental science, or geography, with a solid grasp of hydrology and flood modeling principles. Familiarity with GIS software, hydraulic modeling tools (such as HEC-RAS, Flood Modeller, or MIKE FLOOD), and relevant industry certifications (e.g., CFM, CIWEM) is often required. Effective communication, analytical thinking, and collaboration skills help you convey complex data to both technical and non-technical audiences and work within multidisciplinary teams. These competencies are vital for accurately assessing flood hazards, developing risk mitigation strategies, and ensuring public and infrastructure safety.

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

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

Infographic showing various Flood Risk 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 $62,273 per year, or $29.9 per hour.

Project Engineer

Wood Rodgers

Orange, CA • On-site

$48.25 - $59.25/hr

Full-time

Posted 22 days ago


Job description

Project Engineer
Department: Water Resources/Flood & Drainage
Employment Type: Full Time
Location: Orange, CA
Compensation: $48.25 - $59.25 / hour
Description
Are you seeking a career where you can foster a positive working environment and enhance employee relations? Do you possess flexibility, proactivity, approachability, a knack for problem-solving, and a good sense of humor? If so, you've found the right place!
Wood Rodgers is seeking a motivated Project Engineer to join our Flood & Drainage team. This position is ideal for an engineer with 5 to 8 years of water resources experience who is passionate about hydrologic and hydraulic modeling, flood risk reduction, and development of resilient infrastructure. The successful candidate will support and lead technical studies involving stormwater systems, flood control facilities, drainage master plans, pump stations, floodplain analyses, and watershed management projects for public agencies throughout California. Working alongside senior engineers and project managers, you will develop engineering solutions using advanced modeling tools, GIS technology, and data-driven analysis to address complex flooding, drainage, and climate resilience challenges.
This is a staffed, hourly, non-exempt position.
A day in the life as a Wood Rodgers' Project Engineer
  • Develop hydrologic and hydraulic models for storm drain, watershed, floodplain, pump station, and flood control projects.
  • Build, calibrate, validate, and maintain engineering models using historical rainfall, flow monitoring, and field data.
  • Perform flood risk, drainage capacity, and infrastructure deficiency analyses.
  • Evaluate alternatives and develop Capital Improvement Program (CIP) recommendations.
  • Develop and manage GIS databases and map products to support engineering studies.
  • Support preparation of drainage master plans, FEMA flood studies, and climate resilience assessments.
  • Assist with pump station, channel, culvert, detention basin, and storm drain improvement projects.
  • Prepare technical memoranda, engineering reports, exhibits, and client presentations.
  • Conduct field investigations and coordinate with clients, agencies, and project stakeholders.
  • Support preparation of plans, specifications, cost estimates, and construction documents.

Qualifications & Skills
  • California Professional Engineer (PE) with a Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering and 5+ years of experience in water resources engineering.
  • Experienced in hydrologic and hydraulic modeling using HEC-RAS, HEC-HMS, InfoWorks ICM, XP-SWMM, TUFLOW, and MIKE software.
  • Proven expertise in 1D/2D hydraulic modeling, model calibration, floodplain mapping, FEMA studies, pump station analysis, and drainage master planning.
  • Skilled in ArcGIS Pro, geospatial data management, and the application of data-driven solutions for water resources and stormwater projects.
  • Experience supporting sea level rise assessments, climate resilience initiatives, and capital improvement planning.
  • Strong analytical, technical writing, and communication skills with the ability to effectively present complex engineering and modeling results.
  • Collaborative team player with experience mentoring junior staff, supporting project delivery, and developing high-quality engineering solutions.

A note on hourly pay ranges
The range does not reflect geographic variations and may fluctuate above or below the stated amount. Offers will be based on several factors, including experience, education, skills, licensure, certifications, training, and location. Base pay is just one part of the comprehensive compensation package offered by Wood Rodgers. If you feel you meet the requirements but may be outside of the pay range, please apply anyway and let's talk through it.
How we elevate your game
Joining Wood Rodgers comes with perks to support you in your personal and professional journey.
  • A Unique Culture: We're an engineering firm that feels refreshingly different. As inventors who ask, "why not?", our leadership empowers employees to grow, challenge conventions, and develop creative solutions. We host grand parties, offer surprise days off, and consistently reinvest in our employees rather than focusing solely on corporate profits. While these perks contribute to our vibrant culture, it's the remarkable people at the heart of it all - individuals who are passionate about learning, teaching, helping, and collaborating.
  • Teamwork: Experience what it means to be part of the Wood Rodgers family. Be inspired by your leaders, supported and encouraged by your teammates to live a full and exciting life, and receive holistic support in your work and personal endeavors. Visit our website or follow us on social media @woodrodgersinc to get a glimpse of our dynamic community!
  • Learning + Development: Engage in leadership development programs and goal setting to unlock new possibilities for your career and life. Grow within the company through mentorship and achieve your potential as a leader from the moment you're hired.