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Groundwater Modeling Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Work closely with other members of the WSP modeling team Redmond as well as the wider WSP groundwater technical community around the world in a collaborative environment * Exercise responsible and ...

Senior Groundwater Modeler

Redmond, WA · On-site

$90K - $118K/yr

Work closely with other members of the WSP modeling team Redmond as well as the wider WSP groundwater technical community around the world in a collaborative environment * Exercise responsible and ...

Senior Groundwater Modeler

Redmond, WA · On-site

$90K - $118K/yr

Work closely with other members of the WSP modeling team Redmond as well as the wider WSP groundwater technical community around the world in a collaborative environment * Exercise responsible and ...

$90 - $130/hr

Senior Groundwater Modeler / Hydrogeologist - ( 195470 ) At HDR, our employee-owners are fully ... modeling assignments as part of hydrodynamic, sediment transport and water quality modeling ...

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Groundwater Modeling information

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$14

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$51

How much do groundwater modeling jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 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 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.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a groundwater modeler?

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 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 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 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:

Infographic showing various Groundwater Modeling job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $63,549 per year, or $30.6 per hour.

Senior Groundwater Leader

GEI Consultants

Rancho Cordova, CA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 25 days ago


GEI Consultants rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

285th of 453 rated engineering


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.

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