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Groundwater Modeler Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Senior Groundwater Leader

Rancho Cordova, CA ยท On-site

$150K - $190K/yr

The ideal candidate will be experienced with groundwater models, groundwater sustainability planning, development and implementation of monitoring programs, well design and managed aquifer recharge ...

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Phoenix, AZ ยท On-site

$70K - $90K/yr

We are seeking an experienced Groundwater Modeling Hydrogeologist to join the Hydrology Division. H ydrogeologist Associate Hydrology Division/Groundwater Modeling Section WWW.AZWATER.GOV Job ...

Hydrogeologist Associate

Phoenix, AZ ยท On-site +1

$70K - $90K/yr

We are seeking an experienced Groundwater Modeling Hydrogeologist to join the Hydrology Division. H ydrogeologist Associate Hydrology Division/Groundwater Modeling Section WWW.AZWATER.GOV Job ...

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Groundwater Modeler information

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$11K

$105.5K

How much do groundwater modeler jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for groundwater modeler in the United States is $97,166.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $90,000.00 and $105,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by Groundwater Modelers when working on large-scale water resource projects?

Groundwater Modelers often encounter challenges such as limited or inconsistent data availability, which can make model calibration and validation difficult. Additionally, communicating complex model results to non-technical stakeholders requires strong visualization and presentation skills. Collaboration with hydrologists, engineers, and regulatory agencies is essential, as modelers must ensure that their simulations align with real-world conditions and project objectives. Overcoming these challenges can lead to rewarding opportunities to influence important water management decisions and advance in the field.

What is the difference between Groundwater Modeler vs Hydrogeologist?

AspectGroundwater ModelerHydrogeologist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Hydrogeology, Geology, or Environmental Science; proficiency in modeling softwareBachelor's or Master's in Hydrogeology, Geology, or Environmental Science; often includes field experience
Work EnvironmentPrimarily office-based, focusing on data analysis and modelingFieldwork and office work, including site assessments and data interpretation
Employer & Industry UsageConsulting firms, government agencies, environmental companiesEnvironmental consulting, government agencies, research institutions

While both roles require a background in hydrogeology and similar credentials, a Groundwater Modeler specializes in creating computer models to simulate groundwater flow, whereas a Hydrogeologist combines fieldwork and data analysis to understand groundwater systems. The roles often overlap but differ mainly in focus: modeling versus field investigation.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Groundwater Modeler, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Groundwater Modeler, you need a strong background in hydrogeology, numerical modeling, and data analysis, typically supported by a degree in environmental science, geology, or engineering. Familiarity with modeling software such as MODFLOW, GIS platforms, and programming languages like Python or MATLAB is usually required. Strong problem-solving, attention to detail, and communication skills help interpret model results and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams. These skills are essential for accurately simulating groundwater systems and informing effective water resource management decisions.

What is a Groundwater Modeler?

A Groundwater Modeler is a professional who uses computer models to simulate the flow and distribution of groundwater in the subsurface. They analyze data from wells, aquifers, and environmental studies to predict how water moves underground and how it can be affected by human activities or natural changes. Their work is essential for managing water resources, assessing contamination risks, and supporting environmental remediation projects. Groundwater Modelers often collaborate with hydrogeologists, engineers, and policymakers to provide expertise on groundwater systems.
More about Groundwater Modeler jobs
What cities are hiring for Groundwater Modeler jobs? Cities with the most Groundwater Modeler job openings:
What states have the most Groundwater Modeler jobs? States with the most job openings for Groundwater Modeler jobs include:
Senior Groundwater Leader

Senior Groundwater Leader

GEI Consultants

Rancho Cordova, CA โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 28 days ago


Job description

Description
Your role at GEI.
GEI is seeking a Senior Groundwater Leader (Hydrogeologist or Engineer) to support our growing groundwater management services and integrated water resources planning business line for the West Region. The ideal candidate will be experienced with groundwater models, groundwater sustainability planning, development and implementation of monitoring programs, well design and managed aquifer recharge projects. The candidate will be a leader who brings technical excellence, strategic thinking, team mentorship, collaborative perspective, and fostering industry relationships.
This individual will engage with project planning and management; client, subcontractor and agency interaction; review and interpretation of data; preparation of proposals, work plans and reports; support implementation of groundwater sustainability plans and prepare annual reports. Experience with groundwater monitoring programs, hydrogeologic site investigations, data management expertise and groundwater modeling is required.
You will join a growing team of highly motivated staff professionals and senior leaders who understand the power of collaboration, have a passion for quality, and realize great satisfaction serving our clients and building trusted relationships.
Essential Responsibilities & Duties
  • Works well with others
  • Proven record of outstanding client service
  • Lead and develop groundwater practice area (i.e., GW modeling, managed aquifer recharge, municipal and ASR well design, environmental remediation, etc.)
  • Support staff in GEI's West Region offices as needed on project and business development pursuits.
  • Project management tasks including budget preparation and tracking, staffing and scheduling, and interaction with subcontractors, clients, and regulatory agency representatives.
  • Lead and support proposals and business development activities for the region.

Ideal Candidate will have these qualities:
  • Seller-doer with demonstrated success in consulting environment
  • Experience with or desire to mentor junior staff
  • Collaborative focus with clients and internal team
  • Connected in the water resources industry
  • Productive, pro-active, driven, communicative

Minimum Qualifications
  • B.S. in Quantitative Hydrology, Environmental or Civil Engineering, or Hydrogeology; M.S. or Ph.D. is a plus.
  • Significant coursework and project experience in groundwater and hydrogeology
  • P.G. or P.E. registration.
  • A minimum of 20 years of previous professional experience in hydrogeology or related fields.
  • Demonstrated experience in leading and growing a team of professionals in relevant technical area such as groundwater modeling, planning and investigations, design, and oversite of the construction of groundwater related projects.
  • Demonstrated success in leading a group in positioning for and winning new groundwater work both sole source and through open competitions.
  • Excellent technical report writing and communication skills.
  • Familiarity and experience with basin and regional scale water resources planning efforts in California
  • Experience with California's Sustainable Groundwater Management Program regulations preferred.
  • Ability to synthesize large volumes of information quickly in the design of sustainable groundwater recharge and extraction facilities
  • Ability to work well alone and in a team atmosphere
  • Self-motivated with good problem-solving skills and willing to respond to instruction
  • Willing to travel as needed on assignments, including field assignments
  • Valid U.S. driver's license.
  • Experience with spatial analysis and visualization software such as CAD, GIS, EVS or other databases is a plus.

We are GEI.
Some of the world's most pressing problems - from climate change to sustainable development, to critical infrastructure and the future of our energy supply - need our brightest and diverse minds working together to create safer, more resilient communities for tomorrow.
We are technical experts, collaborators, and entrepreneurs who draw from diverse backgrounds to solve our clients' most complex challenges.
With several offices across North America, we offer a range of engineering, science, and technical consulting services. Our range of expertise, project types, and culture make us the choice for top talent in the AEC industry. See all our office locations here .
Employee-owned. Employee-focused.
As an employee-owned company, our employees support our flat leadership structure, have a say in how our business operates and benefit from our financial success. We are committed to employee growth with career development opportunities, competitive total rewards, a well-being program, flexible work arrangements and more. Our company culture is driven by our 4 Cs - we are Client-Centered, Curious, Collaborative, and Community Minded - which support our focus on sustainability, safety, diversity, equity and inclusion. Get to know us better by visiting GEI's career site here .
GEI's Total Rewards Package Includes
  • Market-Competitive Compensation, including Eligibility for an Annual Performance Bonus
  • Pay Range For This Position: $150,000 - $190,000 per year
  • Comprehensive Benefits Program, including Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Disability and More
  • Well-Being Program and Paid Parental Leave
  • Commuter Benefits
  • Hybrid Work Schedules and Cell Phone Stipends
  • GEI University (GEIU) with Continuing Education Assistance and Tuition Reimbursement
  • Connecting Conversation Program with a Focus on Professional Development and Opportunities for Advancement
  • Support and Financial Rewards for Publication Awards, Professional Dues, and Professional Licenses
  • Paid Holidays and Generous Paid Time Off Program
  • Rewards and Recognition
  • GEI-Funded Profit Sharing and 401(k)
  • Opportunity to be an Owner and Shareholder (Learn more here )
  • A Vibrant Culture that is Focused on Partnership, Sustainability, Giving Back to Our Communities and Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
  • And More...

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
WORK ENVIRONMENT
Functional Demands:
X
Sedentary
Light
Medium
Other
Activity Level Throughout Workday (check one per row)
Physical Activity Requirements
Occasional
(0-35% of day)
Frequent
(33-66% of day)
Continuous
(67-100% of day)
Not Applicable
Sitting
6-8 hours
Standing
0-1 hour
Walking
0-1 hour
Climbing
X
Lifting (floor to waist level) (in pounds)
0-10 pounds
Lifting (waist level and above) (in pounds)
0-10 pounds
Carrying objects
0-1 hour
Push/pull
X
Twisting
0-1 hour
Bending
0-1 hour
Reaching forward
0-1 hour
Reaching overhead
0-1 hour
Squat/kneel/crawl
X
Wrist position deviation
3-5 hours
Pinching/fine motor skills
1-2 hours
Keyboard use/repetitive motion
6-8 hours
Taste or smell (taste=never)
0-1 hour
Talk or hear
6-8 hours
Accurate 20/40
Very Accurate 20/20
Not Applicable
Near Vision
X
Far Vision
X
Yes
No
Not Applicable
Color Discrimination
X
Sensory Requirements
Minimal
Moderate
Accurate
Not Applicable
Depth perception
X
Hearing
X
Environment Requirements
Occupational Exposure Risk Potential
Reasonably Anticipated
Not Anticipated
Blood borne pathogens
X
Chemical
X
Airborne communicable diseases
X
Extreme temperatures
X
Radiation
X
Uneven surfaces or elevations
X
Extreme noise levels
X
Dust/particulate matter
X
Other (exposure risks):
Usual workday hours :
X
8
10
12
Other work hours
GEI is an AA/equal opportunity employer, including disabled and veterans.