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Floodplain Manager Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

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Floodplain Manager information

See Reston, VA salary details

$23.9K

$63.8K

$106.6K

How much do floodplain manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for floodplain manager in Reston, VA is $63,827.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,800.00 and $71,800.00 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.
What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Floodplain Manager jobs? Cities near Reston, VA with the most Floodplain Manager job openings:
Infographic showing various Floodplain Manager job openings in Reston, VA 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 $63,827 per year, or $30.7 per hour.
GIT Specialist II - FEMA

GIT Specialist II - FEMA

Michael Baker International, Inc.

Alexandria, VA • On-site

$106K - $168K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago


Michael Baker International rating

8.9

Company rating: 8.9 out of 10

Based on 18 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

36th of 368 rated engineering


Job description


GIT Specialist II - FEMA
What We're Looking For:
Michael Baker International is seeking an experienced Geospatial Information Technology (GIT) Specialist II with deep expertise in FEMA flood hazard mapping and coastal floodplain mapping to support Risk MAP studies and resilience projects.
You'll join a collaborative, multidisciplinary team of floodplain engineers, geospatial professionals, planners, and project managers working across diverse regions. This role is ideal for someone who is driven, detail-oriented, and intellectually curious-someone who is passionate about delivering high-quality mapping solutions that make a meaningful impact in the communities we serve.
In this role, you will work with complex spatial datasets, including coastal and riverine modeling outputs, and deliver technically sound, FEMA-compliant geospatial products. This position supports the MER3 practice and includes work across FEMA Headquarters and Regions 1, 2, 3, and 5, with opportunities to expand into other federal, state, and local resilience programs.
This position may be office-based, hybrid, or remote depending on location.
What You'll Do:
  • Lead GIS analysis, database development, and DFIRM production in support of FEMA Risk MAP studies and resilience projects
  • Support coastal and riverine floodplain mapping, integrating engineering model outputs into GIS workflows
  • Collaborate with engineers, modelers, and project managers to translate complex analyses into mapping deliverables
  • Develop, manage, and maintain spatial and non-spatial datasets aligned with FEMA standards and specifications
  • Compile and integrate geospatial data from multiple sources (LiDAR, aerial imagery, field data, existing studies)
  • Produce high-quality cartographic and digital mapping products that meet client and FEMA requirements
  • Perform QA/QC reviews of DFIRM databases, mapping deliverables, and supporting datasets
  • Develop and maintain FEMA-compliant metadata
  • Conduct spatial analysis and statistical evaluations to support mapping and technical decision-making
  • Prepare clear, concise technical documentation outlining geospatial processes and workflows
  • Support task management, scheduling, and coordination across multiple concurrent projects
  • Mentor junior staff on GIS workflows, FEMA standards, QA/QC processes, and task execution
  • Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams and external partners to support hazard assessment and resilience planning

What You Need to Succeed:
  • Bachelor's degree in geography, GIS, computer science, engineering, planning, mathematics, government, or related field
  • 5+ years of experience with GIS concepts, software, and/or AutoCAD
  • Proficiency in Esri software suite (ArcMap, ArcGIS Pro, ArcGIS Enterprise), with emphasis on coastal mapping
  • Experience with FEMA's NFIP and Risk MAP Program, including guidance, specifications, and mapping standards
  • Experience supporting or leading DFIRM database development and Flood Insurance Study (FIS) components
  • Strong analytical, problem-solving, and data interpretation skills
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills, including technical documentation
  • Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a team environment

Preferred Qualifications
  • Certified Floodplain Manager (CFM)
  • Experience with coastal processes and mapping workflows, including interpretation of coastal model outputs
  • Familiarity with coastal engineering datasets used in FEMA flood studies
  • Project management experience (task management, coordination, scheduling)
  • Experience mentoring or leading junior staff
  • Interest or experience in disaster recovery and resilience projects
  • Ability to travel up to ~20% as needed
  • Participation in industry organizations (ASFPM, PMI, etc.)

Compensation
The approximate compensation range for this position $$106,852 - $168,292 per year. This compensation range is a good faith estimate for the position at the time of posting. Actual compensation is dependent upon factors such as education, qualifications, experience, skillset, and physical work location.
Why Choose Us
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • 401(k) retirement plan
  • Health Savings Account (HSA) and Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
  • Life, AD&D, short-term, and long-term disability coverage
  • Professional and personal development opportunities
  • Generous paid time off
  • Commuter and wellness benefits

About Us
Michael Baker International, a leading provider of engineering and consulting services, including design, planning, architectural, environmental, construction and program management, has been solving some of the world's most complex infrastructure challenges for more than 85 years with a legacy of expertise, experience, innovation and integrity.
Based in Pittsburgh and with over 100 offices nationwide, we partner with clients on everything from roads, bridges, tunnels, mass transit, and airports, to water treatment plants, arctic oil pipelines, environmental restoration and specialized overseas construction. We serve as a trusted adviser to the communities we serve, making them safer, more accessible, more sustainable and more prosperous.
We provide visionary leadership in facilitating transformational change for our clients. Our work delivers differentiating innovations and dedicated experts who challenge the status quo and share a world of diverse experience and an impassioned entrepreneurial spirit. We deliver quality of life.
We Make a Difference.
Michael Baker International is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. Michael Baker International provides equal employment opportunity for all persons, in all facets of employment. Michael Baker International maintains a drug-free workplace and performs pre-employment substance abuse testing and background checks. We encourage all qualified applicants to apply for any open position for which they feel they are qualified and all will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, creed, age, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship status, marital status, familial status, pregnancy or childbirth, genetic information, disability, protected veteran status, status with regard to public assistance, or membership or activity in a local human rights commission, or any other legally protected status.
EEO is the Law. Applicants to and employees of Michael Baker International are protected under Federal law from discrimination.
*It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.
*There is no current application deadline. Michael Baker will continue to accept applications on an ongoing basis until the position is filled or no longer needed.
About the Team
GEOSPATIAL/SURVEYING PRACTICE
We are a national leader in implementing straightforward approaches to development and deployment of scalable enterprise Geospatial Information Technology (GIT) solutions. Michael Baker International has differentiated itself and expanded its capabilities by using the latest technologies. For example, we use aerial, static and mobile Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) systems that accurately determine range, elevation, and other critical mapping data. With hundreds of Geographic Information Systems (GIS), survey, mapping and IT professionals in our Geospatial Practice across North America, Michael Baker International possesses in-house experience and resources to support all elements of your program needs, including: needs analysis, digitizing/data conversion, customized mapping applications, and systems documentation, implementation, and training.

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