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Floodplain Manager Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

... floodplain studies, hydraulic modeling, bridge scour, and environmental permitting * Detail-oriented, self-starting team player adept at managing multiple projects * Strong verbal and written ...

... floodplain studies, hydraulic modeling, bridge scour, and environmental permitting * Detail-oriented, self-starting team player adept at managing multiple projects * Strong verbal and written ...

... floodplain studies, hydraulic modeling, bridge scour, and environmental permitting * Detail-oriented, self-starting team player adept at managing multiple projects * Strong verbal and written ...

Knowledge of floodplain delineation, storm water management, culvert and bridge hydraulics, and drainage design. * Strong oral and written communication skills * Proficiency using CADD * Desire to ...

Showing results 41-60

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 Aug 10, 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.

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 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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $63,827 per year, or $30.7 per hour.

Senior Engineer, Water Resources

Bowman Consulting Group, Ltd.

Reston, VA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 23 days ago


Job description

Short Description
Bowman has an opportunity for a Senior Engineer, Water Resources to join our team remotely.
At Bowman, we believe in creating opportunities for aspiring people to thrive and achieve ambitious goals. That's why a career at Bowman is more than a job. It is an opportunity to be part of a diverse and engaged community of professionals, to be treated as a respected and valued member of a motivated team and to be empowered to do exceptional work that advances the best interest of everyone involved. We recognize the importance of creating a work environment that is both rewarding to our employees and supportive of our unwavering commitment to provide unparalleled service to our clients.
Purpose
Carry out complex hydrologic and hydraulic modeling assignments requiring the development of new or improved techniques and procedures to address surface water processes, stormwater management, and flood risk analysis. Contribute specialized expertise in watershed-scale and site-scale modeling to support infrastructure evaluation, regulatory compliance, and resilient design solutions.
Responsibilities
Leadership and Direction
  • Receive broad guidance from senior-level management relating to overall key objectives, critical issues, new concepts and policy matters, with flexibility for independent execution of complex modeling tasks.
  • Manage people and processes to ensure effective execution.
  • Review and provide quality assurance for modeling work and technical deliverables produced by staff.

At the Operational and Company Level
  • Assist with the marketing of the firm's capabilities to establish new clients and enhance relationships with existing clients.
  • Coordinate with other internal departments to meet project requirements.
  • Drive the profitability and growth of projects
  • Support marketing and business development efforts by showcasing modeling and water resources capabilities to new and existing clients.
  • Collaborate with senior engineers, regulatory agencies, subcontractors, and design teams on technical issues related to hydrology and hydraulics.

Do the Work
  • Apply advanced and diversified knowledge of hydrologic and hydraulic engineering principles across a wide range of project types.
  • Develop, calibrate, and apply 1D and 2D hydrologic/hydraulic models (e.g., HEC-HMS, HEC-RAS 1D/2D, Flo2D, SRH-2D, TUFLOW, PCSWMM, StormCAD) for rainfall-runoff, channel hydraulics, floodplain delineation, and stormwater infrastructure evaluation.
  • Conduct watershed-scale and site-scale analyses, including hydrologic parameter calibration (CN, infiltration, lag time, baseflow) using gage records, LiDAR, and soil datasets.
  • Generate and refine 2D computational meshes, break lines, and boundary conditions; conduct sensitivity analyses to evaluate flood depth, velocity, and scour potential.
  • Prepare CLOMR/LOMR packages and coordinate with FEMA and regulatory agencies for floodplain mapping, compliance, and permitting.
  • Integrate GIS and scripting tools (ArcGIS/QGIS) with hydrologic/hydraulic models for terrain processing, land cover classification, and spatial data analysis.
  • Apply statistical hydrology techniques such as Bulletin 17C frequency analysis, NOAA Atlas 14 precipitation studies, and regional regression equations.
  • Provide design input for stormwater BMPs, detention/retention systems, and green infrastructure with a focus on hydrologic/hydraulic performance.
  • Prepare technical memoranda, hydrographs, reports, and model documentation for agency and client submittals.
  • Communicate complex modeling results to multidisciplinary teams, stakeholders, and regulators, and provide defensible recommendations.

Success Metrics and Competencies
  • Ability to work both independently and within a team environment.
  • Ability to effectively participate as part of a project team.
  • Ability to effectively communicate with all levels of the organization and external partners.
  • High degree of discretion and ability to manage highly confidential information.
  • High level of motivation and a problem-solving attitude.
  • Strong sense of urgency in responding to constituents.
  • Effective verbal and written communication skills.
  • Strong work ethic and commitment to quality.
  • Self-reliance and ability to operate independently with limited direction.
  • Commitment to promoting the reputation of the company through quality of work and attention to detail.
  • Commitment to becoming a "citizen" of the broader organization, breaking down barriers and silos.
  • Commitment to working in partnership with others inside and outside the organization.
  • Ability to effectively manage multiple time-sensitive tasks.
  • Outstanding client management skills.
  • Commitment to driving profitability and growth.
  • Ability to be a self-starter with strong marketing/business development skills.
  • Focus on improving return on investment.
  • Basic understanding of financial reports and metrics.
  • Data analysis and interpretation skills.
  • A proven track record of innovation, leadership and creativity.
  • Strong project management and communication skills.
  • Proven marketing and business development skills.
  • Ability to collaborate and team well across offices and be able to facilitate agreements
  • Effective verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to simplify technical concepts for diverse audiences.
  • High motivation, strong work ethic, and a commitment to delivering quality, defensible results.
  • Ability to manage multiple time-sensitive projects and priorities.
  • Commitment to fostering client trust and enhancing the company's reputation for technical excellence.
  • Dedication to professional growth and mentoring of junior staff.

Qualifications
  • Master's Degree in Hydrology, Water Resources, or Civil/Environmental Engineering with a focus on surface water processes required.
  • Professional Engineer (PE) license preferred.
  • Eight or more (8+) years of professional experience applying 1D and 2D hydrologic/hydraulic models to complex watershed and site-scale projects.
  • Advanced experience with HEC-HMS, HEC-RAS (1D/2D), and other modeling platforms (Flo2D, SRH-2D, TUFLOW, PCSWMM, StormCAD).
  • Proficiency in hydrologic parameter development and calibration using gage data, LiDAR, and soils datasets.
  • Strong GIS integration skills with QGIS/ArcGIS for terrain processing, land cover, and model inputs.
  • Experience with CLOMR/LOMR preparation and coordination with FEMA.
  • Knowledge of stormwater BMP design, detention/retention, and green infrastructure analysis.
  • Familiarity with statistical hydrology, including Bulletin 17C, NOAA Atlas 14, and regional regression approaches.
  • Experience preparing technical reports and compliance documentation for local, state, and federal agencies.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Projects).

About Bowman
Are you ready to build a career that makes a lasting impact? At Bowman, our people are at the center of everything we do. We're committed to creating an environment where employees can thrive both personally and professionally, while helping to shape the infrastructure of tomorrow.
A career at Bowman means being part of a collaborative, forward-thinking organization where innovation, inclusion, and growth are encouraged at every level. We offer competitive compensation, a supportive work environment, and benefits designed to help our employees succeed.
Salary and eligible variable compensation (if any) commensurate with experience. Range $108,000 - $138,000 and includes a comprehensive benefits package.
Our comprehensive benefits package includes:
  • Medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance
  • 401(k) retirement savings plan with company match
  • Paid time off, sick leave, and paid holidays
  • Tuition reimbursement and professional development support
  • Discretionary bonuses and other performance-based incentives
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP), wellness initiatives, and employee discounts

Eligibility for certain benefits may vary based on position, location, and employment status.
Physical Demands and Working Environment
  • Eligible for remote or hybrid work arrangements.
  • Primarily an indoor professional office environment with occasional outdoor work requiring exposure to weather and jobsite conditions.
  • Ability to move around office and construction environments, including walking, bending, climbing, and wearing appropriate PPE.
  • Frequent use of office equipment such as computers, phones, and printers.
  • Occasional lifting, pushing, or pulling up to 20 pounds.

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Job Description Disclaimer
Note: While this job description is intended to be an accurate reflection of the job requirements, it is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Management reserves the right to modify, add, or remove duties from particular jobs and to assign other duties as necessary at any time with or without notice.
Bowman is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace where all employees feel valued and respected. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. For our EEO Policy Statement, please click here. If you'd like more information on your EEO rights under the law, please click here.
Bowman has an obligation to provide and maintain a safe, healthy, and productive environment for its employees and clients. We are committed to maintaining a drug and alcohol-free workplace.
If you have any questions about the application process, please email recruiting@bowman.com.