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Hydraulic Design Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Design Engineer provides technical expertise and engineering support for Contech Engineered ... Develop project-specific engineering solutions, including hydraulic, geotechnical, and structural ...

The Design Engineer provides technical expertise and engineering support for Contech Engineered ... Develop project-specific engineering solutions, including hydraulic, geotechnical, and structural ...

As our Thermal Hydraulic Core Design Engineer, you will contribute to a variety of projects in a collaborative team environment, performing thermal analysis of advanced core designs that include a ...

$86K - $136K/yr

As our Thermal Hydraulic Core Design Engineer, you will contribute to a variety of projects in a collaborative team environment, performing thermal analysis of advanced core designs that include a ...

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Hydraulic Design Engineer information

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$57K

$94.3K

$116.5K

How much do hydraulic design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for hydraulic design engineer in the United States is $94,322.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $83,500.00 and $107,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a hydraulic design engineer do?

A Hydraulic Design Engineer is responsible for designing, analyzing, and optimizing systems that use fluids, typically water, to transmit power or control processes. Their work includes creating plans for hydraulic systems in infrastructure projects like dams, pipelines, irrigation, and water treatment plants. They also ensure designs meet safety, efficiency, and environmental standards, often collaborating with other engineers and stakeholders throughout a project's lifecycle.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a hydraulic design engineer?

To thrive as a Hydraulic Design Engineer, you need a solid background in fluid mechanics, civil or mechanical engineering, and a relevant engineering degree or licensure such as a Professional Engineer (PE). Proficiency in CAD software, hydraulic modeling tools like HEC-RAS or EPANET, and familiarity with industry standards are typically required. Strong problem-solving, project management, and communication skills help you collaborate effectively and deliver innovative solutions. These competencies are essential for designing safe, efficient hydraulic systems that meet client and regulatory requirements.

What are some common challenges faced by hydraulic design engineers when working on multidisciplinary projects?

Hydraulic Design Engineers often work closely with professionals from civil, mechanical, and environmental engineering disciplines, which can present coordination challenges. One common issue is ensuring that hydraulic systems integrate seamlessly with structural and architectural designs, requiring frequent communication and adjustments. Additionally, managing differing project timelines and priorities among teams can be demanding, so strong organizational and collaboration skills are essential. Adapting to changing site conditions and regulatory requirements can also require quick problem-solving and flexibility.

What is the difference between Hydraulic Design Engineer vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectHydraulic Design EngineerMechanical Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Civil, Mechanical, or Hydraulic Engineering; Professional Engineer (PE) license often preferredBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering; PE license common for certain roles
Work EnvironmentDesigning hydraulic systems for water, sewage, or flood control projectsDesigning mechanical systems across various industries like manufacturing, HVAC, or automotive
Industry UsageWater resources, civil infrastructure, environmental projectsManufacturing, energy, automotive, aerospace

Hydraulic Design Engineers focus on designing systems involving fluid flow in water and civil projects, while Mechanical Engineers have a broader scope across multiple industries. Both roles require engineering credentials and involve system design, but their applications and environments differ significantly.

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What are the most commonly searched types of Hydraulic Design Engineer jobs?

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The top employers for Hydraulic Design Engineer jobs are:

What are popular job titles related to Hydraulic Design Engineer jobs?

For Hydraulic Design Engineer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Hydraulic Design Engineer job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, and 15% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $94,322 per year, or $45.3 per hour.

Design Engineer IFP Motion Solutions Inc.

Cedar Rapids, IA • On-site

$74K - $101K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 11 days ago


Job description

Summary

We are seeking a talented and driven Design Engineer to join our team. As a Design Engineer, you will design and develop hydraulic power units (HPUs), valves and manifolds, and complete hydraulic systems; taking projects from concept through detailed design and into production. You will work hands‑on in SolidWorks and collaborate closely with our internal engineering teams and shop floor to deliver quality designs. Responsibilities will include:

  • Provide hydraulic design and development for power units (HPUs), valves, manifolds, and complete systems of varied complexity.
  • Create and maintain 3D models, detailed part drawings, and assemblies in SolidWorks.
  • Apply geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T) to ensure manufacturability and proper fit.
  • Select appropriate hydraulic components and size systems to meet performance and application requirements.
  • Collaborate with internal teams and the shop floor to resolve design and production issues.
  • Support prototyping, testing, and design validation, and revise designs based on findings.
  • Maintain accurate engineering documentation, BOMs, and revision control.
Job Requirements
  • Minimum 2-4 years of mechanical design engineering experience, OR equivalent experience with a strong hydraulic systems/components background.
  • Proficiency in SolidWorks for 3D modeling, detailing, and assemblies.
  • Working knowledge of GD&T and the ability to produce manufacturable, production‑ready drawings.
  • Solid understanding of hydraulic principles and components.
  • Has the ability to manage multiple tasks, has excellent attention to detail, and is willing and able to learn new technologies quickly.
  • Has solid verbal and written communication skills. Works well as an individual and in a team within a manufacturing or production environment.
Additional Beneficial Skills
  • Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field from an accredited college/university (strongly preferred).
  • Experience reading and interpreting hydraulic schematics
  • Familiarity with FEA / stress analysis.
  • Prior experience designing HPUs, manifolds, or complete hydraulic systems.
Benefits

Starting wage commensurate with the experience level of the candidate. Enjoy a rewarding work environment and competitive benefits, including 401(k) and Profit Sharing with financial advisor support, medical, dental, vision plans, life and pet insurance, wellness program, and fitness club subsidies.

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