ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Groundwater Modeling Jobs (NOW HIRING)

INTERA Incorporated

Groundwater Modeler

Austin, TX

Support groundwater modeling and hydrogeologic investigations under the guidance of senior hydrogeologists and modelers * Develop conceptual models of groundwater flow systems * Assist with ...

INTERA Careers

Groundwater Modeler

Austin, TX · On-site

Support groundwater modeling and hydrogeologic investigations under the guidance of senior hydrogeologists and modelers * Develop conceptual models of groundwater flow systems * Assist with ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsGroundwater Modeling Jobs

Groundwater Modeling information

See salary details

$14

$30

$51

How much do groundwater modeling jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for groundwater modeling in the United States is $30.55, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.15 and $34.38 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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, mathematics, and environmental science, typically supported by a relevant degree such as geology, civil engineering, or environmental engineering. Proficiency with groundwater modeling software like MODFLOW, GIS tools, and data analysis platforms is essential, and certifications in hydrology or modeling can be advantageous. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills are crucial for interpreting data and presenting findings to stakeholders. These skills are vital to ensure accurate groundwater assessments and support informed decision-making in water resource management and environmental protection.

What is the difference between Groundwater Modeling vs Hydrogeologist?

AspectGroundwater ModelingHydrogeologist
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in geology, environmental science, or related field; certifications in modeling software are commonRequires a degree in geology, hydrogeology, or earth sciences; professional licensure may be preferred
Work EnvironmentPrimarily office-based with computer modeling; fieldwork for data collectionMix of fieldwork and office analysis; site assessments and data collection
Industry UsageUsed in water resource management, environmental impact assessments, and contamination studiesInvolved in groundwater exploration, contamination assessment, and resource management

Groundwater Modeling focuses on creating computer simulations of underground water systems, while Hydrogeologists conduct field investigations and analyze groundwater data. Both roles are essential in water resource management but differ in their primary methods and focus areas.

What are common challenges faced by professionals working in groundwater modeling?

Groundwater modeling professionals often encounter challenges such as limited or inconsistent data availability, which can make it difficult to calibrate and validate models accurately. They also need to account for complex geological conditions and variability in aquifer properties that can impact model reliability. Collaboration with hydrologists, engineers, and regulatory agencies is essential to gather comprehensive data and align modeling efforts with project goals. Additionally, staying updated with evolving software tools and best practices is important for producing reliable results and supporting effective decision-making.

What is groundwater modeling?

Groundwater modeling is the process of using computer simulations to represent and predict the flow of groundwater and the movement of contaminants through subsurface materials. These models help scientists, engineers, and environmental professionals understand groundwater behavior under various conditions, plan water resource management, and assess the impacts of human activities. Models can range from simple analytical calculations to complex numerical simulations depending on the project's needs.

How to Get a Job in Groundwater Modeling

Jobs in hydrology and groundwater modeling require advanced qualifications. Professionals in the field generally hold a Ph.D., but some positions are available to those with a bachelor’s or master’s degree in civil or environmental engineering, earth sciences, oceanography, or a related focus. In this role, you need to be familiar with modeling tools like the Hydrologic Engineering Center’s River Analysis system and the EPA’s stormwater management model. Additionally, you should have an understanding of computational fluid dynamics models, and you should be comfortable working with very large datasets to produce data visualizations. Excellent communication and project management skills are also important.

More about Groundwater Modeling jobs
What cities are hiring for Groundwater Modeling jobs? Cities with the most Groundwater Modeling job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Groundwater Modeling jobs? The most popular types of Groundwater Modeling jobs are:
What states have the most Groundwater Modeling jobs? States with the most job openings for Groundwater Modeling jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Groundwater Modeling jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Groundwater Modeling jobs are:
Groundwater Modeling jobs near you
Infographic showing various Groundwater Modeling job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 83% In-person, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $63,549 per year, or $30.6 per hour.
Groundwater Modeler

Groundwater Modeler

INTERA Incorporated

Austin, TX

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Posted 21 days ago

Job description

Description

INTERA Incorporated is seeking an entry- to mid-level Groundwater Modeler to join our Austin, Texas office. This is an exciting opportunity for a motivated and technically curious professional to work alongside some of the industry's leading hydrogeologists and modelers while contributing to innovative projects that support sustainable groundwater management and resource stewardship across Texas and beyond. Success in this role requires a collaborative problem-solver with strong analytical skills, a passion for groundwater science, and experience applying scientific programming to complex hydrogeologic challenges. Our ideal candidate is a collaborative problem-solver with strong analytical skills, a passion for groundwater science, and experience applying scientific programming to complex hydrogeologic challenges.


This role is ideal for someone who brings curiosity, technical initiative, and a strong foundation in groundwater science to complex water resource challenges. The ideal candidate will have strong Python programming skills and an interest in using data science, automation, and advanced analytical methods to improve groundwater modeling workflows and decision-making. Familiarity with Texas aquifer systems, groundwater availability modeling, water resource management, or regional hydrogeology is highly desirable. This position offers the opportunity to grow technical expertise, contribute to meaningful water resource projects, and develop alongside a collaborative team of experienced hydrogeologists and modelers. Candidates seeking a challenging and rewarding career in hydrogeology and groundwater modeling are encouraged to apply.


Key Responsibilities

  • Support groundwater modeling and hydrogeologic investigations under the guidance of senior hydrogeologists and modelers
  • Develop conceptual models of groundwater flow systems
  • Assist with construction, calibration, and evaluation of numerical groundwater models
  • Perform quantitative hydrogeologic analyses, including aquifer test analysis and assessment of hydrochemical datasets
  • Apply Python, data science, automation, and other analytical tools to support modeling workflows and data interpretation
  • Support model quality assurance/quality control procedures and documentation
  • Prepare technical reports, data summaries, figures, and presentations for clients, regulators, and project stakeholders
  • Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams on water resource, groundwater management, and hydrogeologic projects

Required Qualifications

  • BS or BA in Engineering, Geology, Hydrogeology, Environmental Science, or a closely related field
  • Solid foundational knowledge of physical hydrogeology, groundwater flow principles, and aquifer systems
  • Foundational knowledge of numerical methods, MODFLOW-based codes, computer programming, and GIS software
  • Programming experience with Python, including the ability to support data analysis, automation, and modeling workflows
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with attention to detail and data quality
  • Effective written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to summarize technical information clearly
  • Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage priorities, meet deadlines, and complete work accurately and on schedule
  • Ability to work collaboratively with multidisciplinary project teams and take direction from senior technical staff

Preferred Qualifications

  • MS in Civil Engineering, Hydrogeology, Geology, or a similar field with an emphasis on groundwater hydrology and/or groundwater modeling
  • 2-7 years of applicable experience with a primary emphasis on quantitative hydrogeology and/or groundwater modeling
  • Familiarity with Texas aquifer systems, groundwater availability modeling, water resource management, or regional hydrogeology
  • Experience applying Python, GIS, and data visualization tools to hydrogeologic analysis or groundwater modeling projects

About INTERA & Our Benefits

INTERA is a Top Workplaces USA 2025 award winner!


Founded in 1974, INTERA has grown into an international geoscience and engineering consulting firm that helps clients make informed business decisions, mitigate risk, and drive optimal outcomes in a multitude of industries. Building and sustaining a strong company culture is at the heart of INTERA's practice of good stewardship. We strive to foster an environment where people love the work that they do and the place that they work because we believe that our employees are our most valuable asset. As an employee-owned company, we are committed to investing in our people's needs for security, health, and well-being with:

  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance that includes a free health plan option for employee-only coverage
  • Paid parental leave - up to 12 weeks for birthing and non-birthing parents
  • Group term life and accidental death and dismemberment insurance, short-term and long-term coverage - paid 100% by the company
  • Paid holiday, vacation, and sick time
  • Opportunities for stock ownership
  • Performance-based bonuses and award programs for technical paper publication
  • Career coaching instead of performance evaluations
  • Tuition reimbursement, financial assistance for professional licensure and registration, and one paid membership to a professional society
  • Pet insurance, and more

These are some of the reasons why many of our employees have spent 10 to 25 years at INTERA. We love what we do, and it shows. 

Apply