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Floodplain Manager Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

System One

Floodplain and Dam Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$81K - $111K/yr

Floodplain and Dam Engineer Location: Chantilly, VA Overview The Floodplain and Dam Engineer ... Manage multiple projects and deadlines. * Coordinate with regulatory agencies to address comments ...

System One

Floodplain and Dam Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$81K - $111K/yr

Floodplain and Dam Engineer Location: Chantilly, VA Overview The Floodplain and Dam Engineer ... Manage multiple projects and deadlines. * Coordinate with regulatory agencies to address comments ...

Gloucester County

Deputy Building Official

Gloucester, VA · On-site

$73K - $109K/yr

Plans Examiner, Combination Inspector, and Certified Floodplain Manager (Association of State Floodplain Managers-ASFM) required. To be considered for this position, your online application must ...

City of Richmond, VA

Project Manager*

VA · On-site

$84K - $139K/yr

Managing the City's CRS program for compliance with FEMA's National Flood Insurance Program ... Evaluating floodplain modeling input data and analyzing results for proposed development. * Staying ...

City of Richmond

Project Manager*

Richmond, VA · On-site

$84K - $139K/yr

Evaluating floodplain modeling input data and analyzing results for proposed development. Staying ... VPDES permitting Modern project management practices and procedures Principles of marketing and ...

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All JobsFloodplain JobsFloodplain Manager JobsFloodplain Manager Jobs in Virginia

Floodplain Manager information

See Virginia salary details

$22.8K

$60.8K

$101.6K

How much do floodplain manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for floodplain manager in Virginia is $60,825.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43,600.00 and $68,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How do you 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 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. Senior or specialized roles can earn higher salaries, especially in regions with high flood risk or regulatory requirements.

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 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.

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.
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Floodplain Manager jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Floodplain Manager job openings:
Floodplain Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Floodplain Manager job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $60,825 per year, or $29.2 per hour.

Floodplain and Dam Engineer

System One Holdings, LLC

Chantilly, VA • On-site

$81K - $111K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 20 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Floodplain and Dam Engineer
Location: Chantilly, VA
Overview
The Floodplain and Dam Engineer position involves work across floodplain modeling, permitting, floodplain crossing design, dam modeling, and dam permitting. The position supports hydrology and hydraulic (H&H) modeling for a variety of regional projects. Responsibilities include work within local and FEMA-regulated floodplains, as well as state-regulated dams in Virginia and Maryland.
Responsibilities
  • Work across floodplain modeling, permitting, floodplain crossing design, dam modeling, and dam permitting.
  • Support hydrology and hydraulic (H&H) modeling for regional projects.
  • Perform work within local and FEMA-regulated floodplains, as well as state-regulated dams in Virginia and Maryland.
  • Develop H&H models using topographic, GIS, and as-built data.
  • Analyze, calibrate, and troubleshoot models.
  • Prepare floodplain study, alteration, CLOMR, and LOMR packages.
  • Conduct dam breach inundation studies, hazard assessments, and failure analyses.
  • Perform floodplain and dam breach modeling and mapping.
  • Prepare Emergency Action Plans and support emergency drill presentations.
  • Design floodplain crossings (vehicular and pedestrian).
  • Support dam rehabilitation and alteration design, coordinating with geotechnical engineers.
  • Produce HEC-RAS models.
  • Develop floodplain permitting packages.
  • Conduct site visits for floodplain and dam inspections.
  • Prepare local and state permit applications.
  • Develop technical reports.
  • Maintain knowledge of regulatory codes, standards, and policies.
  • Manage multiple projects and deadlines.
  • Coordinate with regulatory agencies to address comments and secure approvals.
  • Communicate effectively with internal teams.
  • Perform additional duties as required.

Requirements
  • Minimum of 2+ years of experience with HEC-HMS (or similar) and HEC-RAS modeling.
  • Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering or a related field.
  • Strong analytical and mathematical skills.
  • Strong communication, writing, and organizational skills.
  • Excellent attention to detail and quality control capabilities.
  • Proficiency with ArcMap or similar GIS tools.
  • 10+ years of experience in water resources engineering.
  • Professional Engineer (PE) license (VA required; multi-state preferred).
  • Proficiency with H&H modeling tools (HEC-RAS, HEC-HMS, etc.).
  • Experience managing projects, teams, and client relationships.
  • Strong organizational and analytical skills.

System One, and its subsidiaries including Joulé and Mountain Ltd., are leaders in delivering outsourced services and workforce solutions across North America. We help clients get work done more efficiently and economically, without compromising quality. System One not only serves as a valued partner for our clients, but we offer eligible employees health and welfare benefits coverage options including medical, dental, vision, spending accounts, life insurance, voluntary plans, as well as participation in a 401(k) plan.
System One is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, disability, family care or medical leave status, genetic information, veteran status, marital status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.
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