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Floodplain Manager Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Water Resources Engineer

Fairfax, VA · Hybrid

$78K - $107K/yr

Typical projects involve assisting federal, state and local clients in support of stormwater management (water quality and quantity), floodplain management (CLOMR and LOMR), hydraulic modeling ...

Water Resources Engineer

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$78K - $107K/yr

Typical projects involve assisting federal, state and local clients in support of stormwater management (water quality and quantity), floodplain management (CLOMR and LOMR), hydraulic modeling ...

Showing results 21-40

Floodplain Manager information

See Virginia salary details

$22.8K

$60.8K

$101.6K

How much do floodplain manager jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 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.

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.

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 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 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.

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.

How much does a floodplain manager make?

A floodplain manager's salary typically ranges from $50,000 to $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and certifications. They often work for government agencies or consulting firms, utilizing knowledge of floodplain regulations and GIS tools.

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Floodplain Manager jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Floodplain Manager job openings:

Infographic showing various Floodplain Manager job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $60,825 per year, or $29.2 per hour.

Project Civil Engineer (Land Development)

Pennoni

Virginia Beach, VA

$85K - $110K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago


Pennoni rating

9.1

Company rating: 9.1 out of 10

Based on 12 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

42nd of 453 rated engineering


Job description

Project Engineer - Job Description

Pennoni is hiring for aProject Engineerto join our team and contribute to multi-discipline design projects on a full-time, direct basis at our office in the Hampton Roads, VA area. This person will have the opportunity to work on a variety of private site development and/or municipal projects across various markets!

Primary Responsibilities:

  • Contribute to multiple projects and tasks; this includes monitoring schedules & budgets to ensure effective completion of projects accordingly.
  • Meet regularly with clients.
  • Prepare proposals for new & existing clients (including estimation of project fees).
  • Oversee the development of Land Development Plans; this includes the preparation of engineering design drawings, technical specification, and engineering reports (from schematic design through construction).
  • Coordinate permits through regulatory agencies for large-scale, complex projects.
  • Delegate workload to Junior Engineers & Drafters; this includes mentoring / guiding Junior Engineers to develop Stormwater Management [SWM] strategies, Utility Coordination, and Erosion & Sediment Control [E&SC] Design.
  • Additional tasks may be assigned, as needed.

Basic Requirements:

  • Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering (or a related discipline).
  • 5+ years of professional experience working in Engineering (preferably with Land Development design projects).
  • Proven ability to demonstrate problem-solving skills, especially when working on a variety of projects while providing solutions to difficult issues.
  • Excellent communication skills (verbal & written).

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Additional relevant certification (e.g.: Certified Municipal Engineer / CME, Certified Floodplain Manager / CFM, Professional Planner / PP, etc.) is a plus!
  • Management and/or Project Management experience; proven ability to manage multi-discipline projects is preferred.
  • Advanced proficiency with site design functions: site layout, grading, utility design, stormwater management, erosion control, municipal & land-use regulatory approvals, etc.
  • Experience working with stormwater management, especially while utilizing Hydrology and Hydraulics (H&H) modeling tools.
  • Proficiency with engineering tools (e.g.: CADD, project management software, etc.); experience with AutoCAD Civil 3D is a plus!
  • Proficiency on standard office software applications: Microsoft Office 365 (especially Word, Excel, and Outlook), Adobe Acrobat, etc.; experience working with Bluebeam Revu is a plus!
  • Proven ability to look at the "Big Picture" as well the project goals to coordinate various design disciplines accordingly.

TARGET SALARY RANGE: $85,000 - $110,000 (per year)

Why Pennoni?

At Pennoni, we're not just another multi-disciplinary engineering firm; we're a vibrant team of innovators shaping the future! Founded more than five decades ago, Pennoni is an ENR Top 500 consulting engineering firm where individuality sparks innovation and growth. We're all about helping you build your career while fostering a great workplace culture - here, you'll work with supportive, talented teammates and find pride in your contributions. Join us to be part of a team that values your unique skills and drives excellence in every project!

Equal Opportunity Employer / Veterans / Disabled


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About Pennoni

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Specialized design services

Company size

501 - 1,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Philadelphia, PA, US

Year founded

1966