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Highway Drainage Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Senior Drainage Engineer

Reno, NV · On-site

$104K - $143K/yr

As a Drainage Engineer, you will be involved in projects with our Drainage Transportation Team and ... DOT, AASHTO, and FHWA highway drainage design criteria and guidelines * Excellent written and oral ...

Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering or a related engineering discipline "or equivalent" * 3+ years of progressive experience in roadway/highway drainage design, hydrology, and hydraulics for ...

Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering or a related engineering discipline "or equivalent" * 3+ years of progressive experience in roadway/highway drainage design, hydrology, and hydraulics for ...

Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering or a related engineering discipline "or equivalent" * 3+ years of progressive experience in roadway/highway drainage design, hydrology, and hydraulics for ...

Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering or a related engineering discipline "or equivalent" * 5+ years of progressive experience in roadway/highway drainage design, hydrology, and hydraulics for ...

Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering or a related engineering discipline "or equivalent" * 5+ years of progressive experience in roadway/highway drainage design, hydrology, and hydraulics for ...

Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering or a related engineering discipline "or equivalent" * 5+ years of progressive experience in roadway/highway drainage design, hydrology, and hydraulics for ...

Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering or a related engineering discipline "or equivalent" * 5+ years of progressive experience in roadway/highway drainage design, hydrology, and hydraulics for ...

Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering or a related engineering discipline "or equivalent" * 5+ years of progressive experience in roadway/highway drainage design, hydrology, and hydraulics for ...

Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering or a related engineering discipline "or equivalent" * 5+ years of progressive experience in roadway/highway drainage design, hydrology, and hydraulics for ...

Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering or a related engineering discipline "or equivalent" * 5+ years of progressive experience in roadway/highway drainage design, hydrology, and hydraulics for ...

Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering or a related engineering discipline "or equivalent" * 5+ years of progressive experience in roadway/highway drainage design, hydrology, and hydraulics for ...

Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering or a related engineering discipline "or equivalent" * 5+ years of progressive experience in roadway/highway drainage design, hydrology, and hydraulics for ...

As a Professional Engineer for Drainage, you will have the opportunity to be involved in large ... Working knowledge of DOT, AASHTO, and FHWA highway drainage design criteria and guidelines * Strong ...

Showing results 41-60

Highway Drainage Engineer information

See salary details

$47.5K

$98K

$133.5K

How much do highway drainage engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for highway drainage engineer in the United States is $98,018.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $80,500.00 and $113,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a highway drainage engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Highway Drainage Engineer, you need a solid background in civil engineering principles, hydrology, and stormwater management, typically supported by a bachelor's degree in civil engineering and, often, a Professional Engineer (PE) license. Familiarity with design software like AutoCAD Civil 3D, HEC-RAS, and GIS systems, as well as knowledge of relevant drainage codes and standards, is essential. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you work collaboratively and solve complex drainage challenges. These skills and qualifications are critical for designing safe, compliant, and efficient highway drainage systems that protect infrastructure and the environment.

What does a highway drainage engineer do?

A Highway Drainage Engineer is responsible for designing, analyzing, and managing drainage systems along highways and roadways. Their work ensures that water is effectively diverted away from pavement surfaces, preventing flooding, erosion, and damage to the roadway. They collaborate with civil engineers, surveyors, and construction teams to develop drainage plans, select materials, and ensure compliance with environmental and safety regulations. Their expertise helps protect infrastructure and maintain safe travel conditions for motorists.

What is the difference between Highway Drainage Engineer vs Civil Engineer?

AspectHighway Drainage EngineerCivil Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Civil Engineering, specialized in drainage systemsBachelor's in Civil Engineering, often with broader focus
Work EnvironmentDesigning and managing highway drainage projectsDesigning infrastructure including roads, bridges, and drainage
Industry UsageSpecific to transportation infrastructure and drainage systemsWide range including transportation, buildings, and water resources

Highway Drainage Engineers focus specifically on drainage systems for highways, ensuring proper water runoff and safety. Civil Engineers have a broader scope, working on various infrastructure projects, including roads, bridges, and water management. Both roles require similar credentials but differ in specialization and project focus.

What are some typical challenges faced by highway drainage engineers during project design and implementation?

Highway drainage engineers often face challenges such as accommodating complex site topography, adapting to changing weather patterns, and ensuring compliance with evolving environmental regulations. Coordinating with multidisciplinary teams—including roadway designers, environmental specialists, and construction crews—can also present logistical challenges. Additionally, balancing cost constraints with the need for effective long-term drainage solutions is a common aspect of the role, requiring both technical expertise and strong communication skills.
More about Highway Drainage Engineer jobs

What states have the most Highway Drainage Engineer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Highway Drainage Engineer jobs include:

Infographic showing various Highway Drainage Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $98,018 per year, or $47.1 per hour.

Senior Drainage Engineer

Trilon

Reno, NV • On-site

$104K - $143K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 21 days ago


Job description

At Horrocks, we believe the best work comes from companies with values, that our people are our greatest resource, and that we have a responsibility to the communities where we live and work. As a Drainage Engineer, you will be involved in projects with our Drainage Transportation Team and be part of a growing company focused on meeting our clients' needs, while also solving their problems. The ideal candidate is extremely detail oriented.
  • Design and analysis of roadway and regional flood control facilities
  • Prepare clear and accurate studies, technical reports, construction plans, specifications, and cost estimates for a wide variety of transportation projects
  • Support project managers with client relations, stakeholder management, and sub-consultant coordination
  •  Interface with clients including state and local agencies
  • Coordinate and conduct meetings with project stakeholders
  • Coordinate with office management and project managers to share resources
  • Assist in proposal preparation including oral presentations
  • Coordinate and work within a team of project managers, design engineers, technicians, and support staff to successfully complete a variety of projects
  • Take ownership of projects from start to finish
  • Bachelor's degree in civil engineering from an accredited college or university
  • Professional Engineering (PE) licensure
  • 8 - 15+ years of professional hydraulics design experience including:
  • Design of roadway drainage and flood control facilities
  • Design of erosion control and water control facilities
  • Experience and relationships with transportation and flood control agencies are highly preferred
  • Knowledge and experience with Bentley ProjectWise, MicroStation, OpenRoads, AutoCAD Civil 3D, and other applicable software common to the field of drainage engineering
  • Expertise in hydrologic and hydraulic software, including HEC-1, HEC-2, HEC-RAS, etc.
  • Experience with DOT's plan preparation procedures and standards
  • Experience with Local Agency plan preparation procedures and standards
  • Significant experience and understanding of local, regional, state, and federal design criteria
  • DOT, AASHTO, and FHWA highway drainage design criteria and guidelines
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills
  • Outstanding interpersonal and customer service skills
  • Self-motivated with solid organizational skills and attention to detail
  • Ability to interact with and work cooperatively with clients and multi-disciplinary team members.
  • Ability to multitask while working on many projects at once
  • Willingness to work on projects locally or in workshare with other offices
  • Possess a proven history of meeting project deadlines and budgets
  • Experience in managing technical staff and project teams
  • A desire to grow personally and professionally with each project while working in a team environment to create designs and drawings supporting our client's overall project goal
At Horrocks, you can expect a competitive base salary and award-winning benefits. Including, but not limited to:
  • Medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance
  • Generous paid time off
  • 401(k): 50% match of contribution up to 6%
  • Professional development opportunities including in-house training
  • Paid professional organization membership and professional licensure
For more information, visit our website at www.horrocks.com
Equal Opportunity Employer including disability and protected veteran status
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