1

Floodplain Manager Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Water Resources Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site

$82K - $127K/yr

EIT certification preferred. * 3+ years' experience in Water Resources Design Engineering for transportation engineering projects with topics such as H&H modeling, floodplain management, stream ...

Water Resources Engineer

Herndon, VA · Hybrid

$82K - $127K/yr

EIT certification preferred. * 3+ years experience in Water Resources Design Engineering for transportation engineering projects with topics such as H&H modeling, floodplain management, stream ...

Water Resources Engineer

Herndon, VA · Hybrid

$82K - $127K/yr

EIT certification preferred. * 3+ years' experience in Water Resources Design Engineering for transportation engineering projects with topics such as H&H modeling, floodplain management, stream ...

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 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:
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.

Senior Civil Engineer or Hydrologist 2

Haley & Aldrich

Vienna, VA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 8 days ago


Haley & Aldrich rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

68th of 446 rated engineering


Job description

We are looking to add new talent to our growing team! We are seeking an experienced Senior Civil Engineer or Hydrologist 2 who is passionate about solving complex water resources challenges and ready totake ownership of meaningful work. This role is ideal for a technically strongprofessional who enjoys leading hydrologic and hydraulic analyses, developingpractical solutions, and serving as a trusted advisor to clients.
The successful candidate will play a key role in thedelivery of floodplain management, stormwater, drainage, watershed, andhydraulic design projects while helping grow and strengthen our water resourcespractice. As part of a nationwide team, this role offers opportunities tocollaborate with leading practitioners across multiple regions and contributeto projects spanning a diverse range of hydrologic, hydraulic, and regulatorysettings. Beyond managing projects, this position requires initiative, technicalleadership, sound engineering judgment, and a genuine commitment to deliveringhigh-quality outcomes for clients and communities.
We are looking for someone who naturally takes ownership,identifies solutions rather than problems, and is energized by the opportunityto help lead projects from concept through implementation. This position iswell suited for an experienced water resources professional who hasdemonstrated technical excellence and is ready to expand their influencethrough project leadership, client engagement, and mentorship responsibilities.In return, this role offers the opportunity to influence project direction, mentordeveloping engineers and hydrologists, collaborate with talentedmultidisciplinary teams, and contribute to a growing practice with significantopportunities for professional growth and impact.

Duties/Responsibilities
In this position, you will:

  • Lead and support hydrologic and hydraulic studies for floodplain management, stormwater, watershed, drainage, and water resources projects.
  • Develop, perform, and oversee hydrologic and hydraulic modeling using HEC-HMS, HEC-RAS, SWMM, and related industry-standard tools.
  • Prepare, review, and direct technical analyses, engineering reports, calculations, drainage studies, floodplain studies, plans, specifications, and other project deliverables.
  • Provide technical leadership and engineering judgment for water resources planning, design, permitting, and implementation efforts.
  • Develop technical scopes of work, budgets, schedules, and cost estimates for water resources and hydrology/hydraulics projects.
  • Serve as project manager or technical lead for assigned projects, ensuring delivery of high-quality work that meets client objectives, project budgets, schedules, and regulatory requirements.
  • Build and maintain strong client relationships through responsive communication, technical excellence, and trusted project support.
  • Lead proposal preparation, project planning, staffing, subcontractor coordination, execution, and financial management activities.
  • Support business development efforts through client service, proposal preparation, and identification of opportunities to assist clients with emerging needs.
  • Mentor and support junior engineers and hydrologists through technical guidance, quality reviews, and knowledge sharing.
  • Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to develop practical, resilient, and innovative engineering solutions.
  • Promote a culture of safety, accountability, technical excellence, and continuous improvement.

Skills/Experience
Minimum Skills and Requirements:

  • Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering or related field.
  • 10+ years of related experience.
  • Professional Engineer (P.E.) registration in at least one state is required; registration in multiple states or the ability to obtain within a short time frame strongly preferred.
  • Demonstrated experience leading or supporting hydrologic and hydraulic analyses, modeling, and design efforts for public and/or private sector clients.
  • Demonstrated ability to lead project teams to deliver projects that meet client objectives.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and financial acumen.
  • Proficient computer literacy skills, including the use of AutoCAD Civil 3D, HEC-HMS, HEC-RAS, Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Teams, and Project.
  • Civil and/or environmental engineering experience that spans the entire project lifecycle.
  • Proven experience preparing technical scopes of work and cost estimate preparation.
  • Willingness to travel as needed to support clients, projects, and team collaboration.

Preferred Skills

  • Master's degree in Civil Engineering or related field.
  • 2+ years of related project management, financial management, or task management experience.
  • Construction and/or construction management experience with civil and environmental projects.
  • OSHA 40-Hour HAZWOPER or MSHA 40-Hour Miner training and refresher updates.
  • Experience preparing regulatory permit applications and leading multidisciplinary teams on hydrology and hydraulics design projects.

The salary range for this position Nationwide is 105,000 - 135,000 annually. Actual compensation will be based upon a variety of factors such as education, related work experience, certificates, skills, and current market conditions. Haley & Aldrich reviews salary ranges each quarter to assess competitiveness with the market. This role is eligible to participate in the company's performance-based bonus program. This bonus program is based on overall company performance and the results achieved compared to peers. This role is eligible to receive sign-on bonus. 


What Haley & Aldrich employees say

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom