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Floodplain Manager Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

Restoration Engineer

Seattle, WA · On-site

$116K - $153K/yr

... and floodplain enhancement projects. * Preparing detailed design plans, specifications, cost estimates, and construction documents. * Managing project teams, budgets, scopes, and schedules for ...

Restoration Engineer

Seattle, WA · On-site

$91K - $122K/yr

... and floodplain enhancement projects. * Preparing detailed design plans, specifications, cost estimates, and construction documents. * Managing project teams, budgets, scopes, and schedules for ...

Restoration Engineer

Seattle, WA

$91K - $122K/yr

... and floodplain enhancement projects. * Preparing detailed design plans, specifications, cost estimates, and construction documents. * Managing project teams, budgets, scopes, and schedules for ...

This role focuses on stream and river restoration, fish passage design, floodplain management, coastal resiliency and stormwater management, while combining technical leadership, project management ...

This role focuses on stream and river restoration, fish passage design, floodplain management, coastal resiliency and stormwater management, while combining technical leadership, project management ...

Water Resources Engineer - Fisheries

Seattle, WA · On-site

$89K - $122K/yr

We'll count on you to: • Provide project engineering and task management • Collect, assimilate ... Evaluate stability of LWM structure • Conduct floodplain delineation studies in accordance with ...

Provide project engineering and task management Collect, assimilate, and present data in reports ... Evaluate stability of LWM structures Conduct floodplain delineation studies in accordance with FEMA ...

Direct and oversee the preparation of floodplain and watershed studies, hydrologic and hydraulic ... Develop and manage project scopes, schedules, and budgets. Participate in team strategy meetings on ...

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Floodplain Manager information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$26.2K

$69.9K

$116.7K

How much do floodplain manager jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for floodplain manager in Seattle, WA is $69,858.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,100.00 and $78,600.00 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.
Infographic showing various Floodplain Manager job openings in Seattle, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 68% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 11% Temporary. Highlights an 90% In-person, 5% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $69,858 per year, or $33.6 per hour.

Capital Projects Supervisor - King County DNRP-WLRD

Nwifc

Seattle, WA • On-site

$85 - $115/hr

Other

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

King County DNRP-WLRD is hiring for the position of Capital Projects Supervisor

Are you a collaborative leader and skilled manager of capital projects in floodplains or similar environments? Do you enjoy mentoring staff? Are you ready to grow your career as a Capital Project Manager in the exciting world of floodplain management? Look no further than the River and Floodplain Capital Unit within King County, Washington’s Water and Land Resources Division. We are seeking standout professionals to join our team as a Capital Projects Supervisor and lead a dynamic and multi-disciplinary team delivering crucial capital projects that support public safety and healthy floodplains.

About the Role

The Capital Projects Supervisor (Capital Project Manager IV), located in the River and Floodplain Capital Unit within the Water and Land Resources Division (WLRD), will lead a team dedicated to the delivery of flood risk reduction projects that foster healthy rivers and resilient floodplain communities. Team priorities are focused in the Green River Basin and the individual in this position will become intimate with the Green River and the unique challenges of addressing flood risk reduction in this complex river system. The successful candidate will manage their team’s project portfolio and support multiple complex and politically visible capital projects from initiation through implementation and closeout. In addition to working closely with staff throughout the River and Floodplain Capital Unit, this position will also require close coordination with the River and Floodplain Management Section and WLRD management as well as with Flood Control District staff and elected officials from King County and other jurisdictions. As a leader in our organization, the individual in this position will provide guidance and mentorship to teams and individuals, help set performance metrics, work closely with project managers to create highly functioning teams, and set a tone of excellence and continuous learning where all team members are valued. This CPM IV position will also serve as a technical expert and support other programmatic activities within the River and Floodplain Management Program, including corridor planning efforts for the County’s six major river systems, the inspection, maintenance and operation of the County’s inventory of flood protection facilities, participation in the flood warning and flood patrol program, post-construction effectiveness monitoring, and coordination with Water Resource Inventory Area (WRIA) staff to implement salmon recovery plans. This position may also participate in key Department and County initiatives such as equity and social justice, climate change, organizational development, and process improvement committees.

Job Duties

Provide direct supervision, technical oversight, and quality control to an interdisciplinary team for the implementation of river and floodplain management capital improvement projects. Supervisory duties include hiring, performance management, career development, coaching and mentoring, and fostering a work culture where staff feel valued and not overallocated.

Direct personnel in the planning, design, and construction of river and floodplain management projects, including revetment, levee, floodwall or floodplain reconnection capital projects. Provide and/or direct technical and quality engineering review of capital improvement projects to apply accepted design and engineering standards.

Ensure compliance with the WLR Project Management Manual in terms of project charters and planning, alternatives analysis, preliminary and final design, permitting, acquisition, construction, and closeout. Assist in the development and implementation of workflow processes to ensure consistency in implementation and effective delivery of capital projects. Oversee and supervise the preparation, review and approval of design and construction contract documents. Proactively apply principles of Equity and Social Justice to build and maintain relationships with other jurisdictions, governmental agencies, tribes, community members, and other interested parties through effective communication and outreach efforts as needed to plan and implement capital projects.

Collaborate with colleagues across the Capital Section and River and Floodplain Management Program to participate in the development of annual capital improvement projects and budgets, including estimating costs, assigning work, and setting priorities. Manage complex, sensitive, and politically visible issues that may require regular coordination with WLRD senior management, the King County Flood Control District, and County elected officials. Participate in flood warning and emergency response programs and activities, including the Flood Warning Center, flood patrols, and post-flood inspections.

Experience & Qualifications
  • Bachelor’s in civil engineering, environmental engineering, water resources, environmental science, natural resource management, urban/regional planning, or any combination of education and experience that clearly demonstrates the ability and skills to perform the core work duties of the position.
  • Demonstrated experience managing the work of others, including assigning and scheduling work, reviewing products, and providing training and oversight.
  • Demonstrated experience as a supervisor, project representative, or project manager of a large-scale public works contract or complex, multiple public works contracts.
  • Demonstrated ability to work within an organization to address policy, process, and people-related dynamics.
  • Collaborates: Building partnerships and working collaboratively with others to meet shared objectives.
  • Values Differences: Recognizing the value that different perspectives and cultures bring to an organization.
  • Drives Engagement: Creating a climate where people are motivated to do their best to help the organization achieve its objectives.
  • Instills Trust: Gaining the confidence and trust of others through honesty, integrity, and authenticity.
  • Ensures Accountability: Holding self and others accountable to meet commitments.
  • Manages Complexity: Making sense of complex, high-quantity, and sometimes contradictory information to effectively solve problems.
  • Being Resilient: Rebounding from setbacks and adversity when facing difficult situations.

It Would Be Great if You Also Bring:

  • A Licensed Professional Engineer (P.E.) in the State of Washington, or the ability to obtain the license within one year of hire.
  • Master of Science in civil engineering, environmental engineering, water resources, environmental science, natural resource management, urban/regional planning, communications, public administration, or a closely related field.
  • Advanced knowledge and understanding of hydrologic and open channel hydraulic principles and geomorphic processes.
  • A growth mindset and sense of humor.
Supplemental Information

Working Conditions: Remote and Onsite Work Details. The River and Floodplain Capital Unit works in a hybrid model, with days in the office as well as telecommuting. The ratio of remote to onsite work will be dependent on business needs and is subject to change. The primary onsite location is King Street Center, 201 S. Jackson St, Seattle, WA 98104. Other work locations are at project sites and other locations near the rivers of King County and at the King County Office of Emergency Management in Renton, WA. Remote Work Location Requirement: Employees must reside in Washington state and within a reasonable distance to their King County worksite to respond to workplace reporting requirements. Employees will be provided with a County-issued laptop and must maintain a home workspace with an internet connection where they can reliably perform work and remain available and responsive during scheduled work hours.

Work Schedule: This full-time position will work a 40-hour work week. This position is exempt from the overtime provisions of the Fair Labor Standard Act (FLSA) and is not overtime eligible. The typical work schedule is 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Monday– Friday. Work outside the typical work schedule, including early mornings, evenings and weekends may be required from time to time. Participation in flood warning and emergency response programs and activities in support of King County’s Flood Warning Center operations during flood events.

Union Representation: This position is represented by PROTEC Local 17A bargaining unit.

Physical Requirement: This position has a regular requirement to walk and navigate uneven ground outside along rivers, in forests, and in rural areas during inclement weather and at all hours. These work areas can be dark, pose difficult terrain features, and often require specialized safety gear such as personal flotation devices. Position will require participation in flood emergency response, requiring Swiftwater awareness training.

Equal Employment Opportunity

King County is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Employer: No person is unlawfully excluded from employment opportunities based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex (including gender identity, sexual orientation and pregnancy), age, genetic information, disability, veteran status, or other protected class. Our EEO policy applies to all employment actions, including but not limited to recruitment, hiring, selection for training, promotion, transfer, demotion, layoff, termination, rates of pay or other forms of compensation.

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