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Floodplain Manager Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Cityoforlando

Floodplain Manager

Orlando, FL · On-site

$43.11 - $66.82/hr

Manages a team of professionals whose purpose in the organization is to review floodplain development permit applications and supporting materials to ensure proposed construction work meets City ...

Cityoforlando

Floodplain Engineer

Orlando, FL · On-site

$34.34 - $45.50/hr

This position reports to the Floodplain Manager and works in an independent manner, without close supervision, and is expected to make independent decisions and judgments on Floodplain Management and ...

SAFEbuilt

Floodplain Inspector

Indianapolis, IN · On-site

Floodplain Inspector - Indianapolis Area, IN SAFEbuilt has the technical expertise to provide ... Manages and maintains long-term records. * Assesses, reviews and interprets construction plans in ...

SAFEbuilt

Floodplain Inspector

Indianapolis, IN

Floodplain Inspector - Indianapolis Area, IN SAFEbuilt has the technical expertise to provide ... Manages and maintains long-term records. * Assesses, reviews and interprets construction plans in ...

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$23K

$61.4K

$102.5K

How much do floodplain manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for floodplain manager in the United States is $61,351.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $44,000.00 and $69,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Floodplain Manager?

A Floodplain Manager is a professional responsible for overseeing the management and regulation of land areas susceptible to flooding. Their main duties include ensuring compliance with local, state, and federal floodplain regulations, reviewing development plans, and educating the public about flood risks. They play a crucial role in reducing flood damage, improving community resilience, and maintaining eligibility for flood insurance programs like the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). Floodplain Managers often work with government agencies, engineers, and emergency management teams. Their work helps protect people, property, and the environment from the impacts of flooding.

How much does a floodplain manager make?

The average salary for a floodplain manager typically ranges from $50,000 to $80,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and certifications such as FEMA certifications or GIS skills. Salaries can vary based on government or private sector employment and the complexity of floodplain management responsibilities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Floodplain Manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Floodplain Manager, you need expertise in hydrology, floodplain mapping, and regulatory compliance, usually supported by a degree in environmental science, civil engineering, or a related field. Familiarity with GIS software, FEMA floodplain management standards, and certifications like Certified Floodplain Manager (CFM) are highly valuable. Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are essential soft skills for collaborating with government agencies and the public. These competencies ensure effective flood risk management, regulatory compliance, and community resilience against flooding hazards.

What does a floodplain manager do?

A floodplain manager oversees the planning, regulation, and management of floodplain areas to reduce flood risk and ensure compliance with federal and state regulations. They analyze flood data, develop mitigation strategies, and coordinate with government agencies, often using tools like GIS and floodplain maps. The role may require certifications such as Certified Floodplain Manager (CFM) and involves field inspections and public education.

What is the difference between Floodplain Manager vs Floodplain Technician?

AspectFloodplain ManagerFloodplain Technician
Required CredentialsTypically requires a degree in environmental science, civil engineering, or related field; certifications like ASFPM Certified Floodplain Manager (CFM) are commonUsually requires a high school diploma or associate degree; some roles may need basic certifications or training
Work EnvironmentOffice-based with field inspections; involved in planning, permitting, and community outreachPrimarily fieldwork and data collection; supports floodplain mapping and data analysis
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by government agencies, consulting firms, and environmental organizationsEmployed by similar entities, often as support staff for floodplain management projects

In summary, Floodplain Managers typically hold higher education and certifications, focusing on planning and policy, while Floodplain Technicians support data collection and mapping tasks. Both roles are essential in floodplain management but differ in responsibilities and qualifications.

Is certified floodplain manager certification worth it?

For a Floodplain Manager, obtaining certification such as the Certified Floodplain Manager (CFM) credential can enhance professional credibility, demonstrate expertise in floodplain management, and improve job prospects. It often requires passing an exam and maintaining continuing education, which can be valuable in regulatory and planning roles within the field.

How to become a floodplain manager?

To become a floodplain manager, typically one needs a bachelor's degree in environmental science, urban planning, or a related field, along with experience in floodplain management or hydrology. Certification such as the Certified Floodplain Manager (CFM) from the Association of State Floodplain Managers can enhance job prospects. Strong knowledge of FEMA regulations, GIS tools, and risk assessment is also important.

What are some common challenges faced by Floodplain Managers in coordinating with local agencies and stakeholders?

Floodplain Managers often work closely with a variety of stakeholders, including local government agencies, emergency management teams, engineers, and community members. A common challenge is aligning the diverse priorities of these groups—such as balancing development interests with flood risk reduction and environmental conservation. Effective communication and negotiation skills are crucial, as well as a strong understanding of current regulations and best practices. Building consensus and fostering collaboration can take time, but these efforts are essential to implementing sustainable floodplain management strategies.
More about Floodplain Manager jobs
What cities are hiring for Floodplain Manager jobs? Cities with the most Floodplain Manager job openings:
What states have the most Floodplain Manager jobs? States with the most job openings for Floodplain Manager jobs include:
Floodplain Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Floodplain Manager job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 11% Internship, 58% As Needed, 7% Full Time, 22% Nights, and 2% Summer. Highlights an 82% Physical, 13% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,351 per year, or $29.5 per hour.

Floodplain Manager

Cityoforlando

Orlando, FL • On-site

$43.11 - $66.82/hr

Full-time

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

Job Posting End Date - Applications will no longer be accepted starting07-01-2026Job Summary

Starting Salary: $43.11 - $66.82

Performs responsible managerial and administrative including: reducing the risk of flooding for the City of Orlando; implementing related regulations; managing permits and hydrologic/hydraulic models; reviewing drainage and floodplain related studies to ensure conformance with the City and/or grant requirement; updating floodplain maps; coordinating with other departments to manage proposals and projects; ensuring compliance with local, state, and federal regulations; responding to flooding events; and helping with post-flood recovery. Manages a team of professionals whose purpose in the organization is to review floodplain development permit applications and supporting materials to ensure proposed construction work meets City/state/federal criteria and do not pose increased flood hazard risks to the public. Assess flooding areas throughout the City to provide flood mitigation strategy and improvement projects using acceptable engineering and modeling methodology. In addition, the position manages the City's FEMA Community Rating System (CRS) program, the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), Floodplain Management and Mitigation program, National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) program, and drainage wells. Directs and coordinates, through assigned managerial personnel, activities of Division programs to obtain optimum use of equipment, facilities, and personnel. Aids Division Manager in formulating and administering Division policies and procedures and developing long-range goals and objectives. Reviews analysis of activities, costs, operations, and forecast data to determine the progress toward stated goals and objectives. Recommends capital expenditures for acquisitions of new equipment. Enforces compliance with City policy and procedures and governmental legislation/regulations. Work is performed under the supervision of the Division Manager and reviewed through reports and results achieved.

Minimum Qualifications:

Bachelor's Degree in Environmental Engineering or Civil Engineering with an emphasis in Water Resources plus five (5) years experience in the planning, design, modeling, construction, and maintenance of storm drainage systems, to include at least two (2) years experience in a supervisory or management capacity; or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience. Florida registration as Professional Engineer (PE) is required. A Certified Floodplain Manager (CFM) certification must be obtained within six (6) months of employment. Experience in floodplain management, NPDES, and Stormwater systems highly desired.

Location: 400 S Orange Ave, Orlando, FL

Important: To be eligible to proceed forward in the application process, applicants must meet the minimum qualifications listed in the position description. Please ensure your application provides details of all relevant experience related to the position. If you have questions or need clarification concerning the position or application process, please contact Human Resources at jobs@orlando.gov or 407.246.2062.

If this posting indicates a degree is required, the following experience will apply in lieu of any degree as follows:

  • Two (2) years of direct experience for an associate degree;
  • Four (4) years of direct experience for a bachelor's degree;
  • Six (6) years of direct experience for a master's degree; or
  • Nine (9) years of direct experience for a doctoral degree.

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