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Hydraulic Modeler Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Job Title: Hydraulic Modeler - Water Resources This role focuses on hydrologic and hydraulic modeling to support stormwater, drainage, floodplain, and watershed analyses for infrastructure ...

Supervisor, Hydraulic Modeling

Albuquerque, NM ยท On-site

$120K - $150K/yr

In this role, you'll oversee the development and maintenance of hydraulic models that guide critical infrastructure decisions, evaluate the impacts of system growth and modifications, and help ...

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How much do hydraulic modeler jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for hydraulic modeler in the United States is $40.33, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $31.25 and $43.51 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a hydraulic modeler?

A Hydraulic Modeler is a professional who uses mathematical models and computer simulations to analyze and predict the behavior of water flows in natural and engineered systems, such as rivers, stormwater networks, and water treatment facilities. They play a crucial role in designing infrastructure, assessing flood risks, and optimizing water resource management. Hydraulic Modelers often work with specialized software to create accurate models that help inform engineering decisions and environmental planning.

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

To thrive as a Hydraulic Modeler, you need a solid background in civil or environmental engineering, hydrology, and fluid mechanics, often supported by a relevant degree. Proficiency in modeling software such as HEC-RAS, SWMM, InfoWorks, or MIKE, as well as GIS applications, is typically required. Analytical thinking, attention to detail, and strong communication skills help in interpreting data and conveying complex findings to stakeholders. These skills are crucial for producing accurate models that inform infrastructure planning, flood risk assessment, and water resource management.

What are some typical challenges faced by hydraulic modelers when working on large-scale infrastructure projects?

Hydraulic modelers working on large-scale infrastructure projects often encounter challenges such as integrating complex data from multiple sources, ensuring model accuracy with limited field data, and adapting models to reflect real-world changes over time. Collaboration with engineers, planners, and environmental scientists is essential to address these issues and ensure models meet regulatory and client requirements. Staying current with modeling software and industry standards also helps overcome these challenges and deliver reliable results.

What is the difference between Hydraulic Modeler vs Civil Engineer?

AspectHydraulic ModelerCivil Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Civil, Environmental, or Hydraulic Engineering; certifications in hydraulic modeling softwareBachelor's in Civil, Structural, or Environmental Engineering; PE license often preferred
Work EnvironmentDesign firms, consulting agencies, government agencies focused on water resourcesConstruction sites, design firms, infrastructure projects
Industry UsageSpecialized in water flow, flood risk, and hydraulic systemsBroad engineering projects including transportation, structures, water resources

Hydraulic Modelers focus specifically on modeling water systems and hydraulic simulations, while Civil Engineers have a broader scope including infrastructure design and construction. Both roles often collaborate but differ in specialization and project focus.

How to become a hydraulic modeler?

To become a hydraulic modeler, typically a bachelor's degree in civil engineering, environmental engineering, or a related field is required. Gaining experience with hydraulic modeling software such as HEC-RAS, MIKE, or InfoWorks is essential, along with developing skills in fluid mechanics and data analysis. Professional certifications and on-the-job training can further enhance qualifications for this role.

Is hydraulic modeler a good career?

A hydraulic modeler is a specialized engineering professional who develops and analyzes models of water systems using tools like HEC-RAS or MIKE. The role offers steady employment opportunities in infrastructure, environmental, and water resource projects, often requiring technical skills and certifications. It can be a rewarding career for those interested in water systems and environmental engineering.
More about Hydraulic Modeler jobs

What states have the most Hydraulic Modeler jobs?

States with the most job openings for Hydraulic Modeler jobs include:

Infographic showing various Hydraulic Modeler job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 3% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $83,896 per year, or $40.3 per hour.

Hydraulic Modeler - Water and Sewer

CHA Consulting, Inc.

Blacksburg, VA โ€ข On-site

$8.5K - $99K/mo

Full-time

Re-posted 19 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Support hydraulic and hydrologic modeling efforts for water distribution systems, wastewater, sewer networks, and stormwater infrastructure.

  • Complete engineering design, technical analysis, and prepare specifications and reports for water projects.

  • Monitor project progress, resolve operational issues, and take responsibility for large portions of projects under oversight.


Job description

Advance Your Impact as Hydraulic Modeler โ€“ Water and Sewer โ€” Analyze, Optimize, and Deliver Critical Water Infrastructure Solutions

 

Are you ready to apply advanced hydraulic modeling expertise to solve complex water and wastewater system challenges? Do you thrive in a collaborative environment where datadriven analysis supports resilient infrastructure and protects public health?

CHA Consulting, Inc. is seeking a Hydraulic Modeler โ€“ Water and Sewer to join our Water Team in Blacksburg, VA or Richmond, VA. In this role, you will support hydraulic and hydrologic modeling efforts for water distribution systems, wastewater and sewer networks, and stormwater infrastructure. This is an exciting opportunity to collaborate with engineers, planners, and project managers to inform design decisions, system improvements, and longterm infrastructure planning for communities.


  • Develop, calibrate, and analyze hydraulic and hydrologic models for water and wastewater infrastructure systems
  • Independently complete engineering design, technical analysis, and preparation of specifications and reports for water projects
  • Develop computation methods, technical reports, and specifications under the guidance of senior staff or technical leadership
  • Identify and resolve technical discrepancies, applying standard procedures and best practices for environmental sustainability and public health
  • Monitor project progress and performance, acting quickly to resolve operational issues and minimize delays in critical infrastructure
  • Take responsibility for large portions of projects with oversight from senior staff or management, including field assignments and rehabilitation efforts

  • Bachelorโ€™s Degree in Civil Engineering required
  • Minimum of 3 years of related engineering experience required
  • Engineer-in-Training (EIT) certification or Professional Engineer (PE) license preferred
  • Strong working and theoretical knowledge in the respective engineering discipline with a proven ability to apply engineering knowledge in practical settings
  • Hydraulic modeling experience required
  • Experience with software such as AutoCAD, GIS, WaterGEMS, SewerGEMS, InfoWater, and InfoWorks
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office
  • Excellent communication skills and a collaborative mindset
  • Participation in professional engineering societies/organizations preferred

  • Work alongside experienced engineers and modelers on complex, highimpact water and wastewater projects
  • Apply advanced modeling tools to realworld infrastructure challenges that support community resilience
  • Enjoy a flexible work environment with opportunities for collaboration, technical growth, and professional development
  • Make a meaningful impact by supporting sustainable infrastructure solutions that protect water resources and public health

Curious about the impactful work our Water team is doing? Discover our innovative projects and commitment to sustainable solutions by visiting: chasolutions.com/solutions/water-wastewater-sewer/.


$85,00 - $99,500

Salary is based on a variety of factors, including, but not limited to, qualifications, experience, education, licenses, specialty, training, and fair market evaluation based on industry standards. 


At CHA, we work every day to create solutions, help people, and improve our world, committed to creating and fostering excellence in our diverse and highly talented teams. Our teams continually strive to find better ways โ€“ always searching, never settling โ€“ to achieve extraordinary results. Our values around hiring, training, and community engagement reflect a company culture that is inclusive and forward leaning, always pushing the limits of what is possible.

We as an organization celebrate the values of inclusion and equality, and advocate for the full participation of all people in an environment free of discrimination. To support these values, we invite all qualified applicants to be considered for employment regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

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