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Hydraulic Modeling Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

HDR

Water/Wastewater Hydraulic Modeler

San Diego, CA · On-site

Developing hydraulic models using GIS data and as-built drawings * Collecting and assessing field ... MS Degree in Civil or Environmental Engineering * Experience with modeling software applications ...

HDR

Water/Wastewater Hydraulic Modeler

San Diego, CA · On-site

Developing hydraulic models using GIS data and as-built drawings * Collecting and assessing field ... MS Degree in Civil or Environmental Engineering * Experience with modeling software applications ...

Dudek

Senior Engineer - Floodplain Modeling

San Diego, CA · On-site

$100K - $130K/yr

This role emphasizes riverine hydraulics, floodplain analysis, channel restoration, and fish ... Engineer with a strong technical foundation in surface water hydrology and hydraulic modeling, and ...

Dudek

Senior Engineer - Floodplain Modeling

San Diego, CA · On-site

$100 - $130/hr

This role emphasizes riverine hydraulics, floodplain analysis, channel restoration, and fish ... Engineer with a strong technical foundation in surface water hydrology and hydraulic modeling, and ...

Kosmos

Civil Engineer

Oakland, CA

$100K - $140K/yr

This position is ideal for an engineer with 3 to 8 years of water resources experience who is passionate about hydrologic and hydraulic modeling, flood risk reduction, and development of resilient ...

Tailored Talent

Project / Civil Engineer

Oakland, CA

$97K - $130K/yr

This position is ideal for an engineer with 3 to 8 years of water resources experience who is passionate about hydrologic and hydraulic modeling, flood risk reduction, and development of resilient ...

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Hydraulic Modeling Engineer information

See California salary details

$58.2K

$88.6K

$120.9K

How much do hydraulic modeling engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for hydraulic modeling engineer in California is $88,608.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $61,200.00 and $109,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a hydraulic modeling engineer do?

Hydraulic modeling engineers are professionals who use mathematical models and simulation tools to analyze, design, and optimize water flow systems such as rivers, stormwater networks, and water supply infrastructure. They evaluate how water moves through natural and engineered environments to help solve problems related to flooding, water quality, and infrastructure planning. Their work often involves creating computer models, interpreting data, and providing recommendations for sustainable water management solutions.

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

To excel as a Hydraulic Modeling Engineer, you need a solid background in civil or environmental engineering, fluid mechanics, and quantitative analysis, often supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with industry-standard modeling software such as HEC-RAS, SWMM, and GIS platforms, as well as professional certification like EIT or PE, is typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills set top performers apart in this role. These competencies ensure accurate modeling, effective collaboration with stakeholders, and the successful design and management of water-related infrastructure projects.

What are some common challenges faced by hydraulic modeling engineers when working on large-scale infrastructure projects?

Hydraulic Modeling Engineers often encounter challenges such as integrating complex data from multiple sources, ensuring model accuracy with limited site-specific information, and coordinating with multidisciplinary teams like civil engineers and environmental specialists. Large-scale projects typically require balancing technical constraints with project budgets and timelines. Effective communication and adaptability are key, as these engineers must frequently present findings to stakeholders and adjust models based on evolving project requirements.

What is the difference between Hydraulic Modeling Engineer vs Civil Engineer?

AspectHydraulic Modeling EngineerCivil Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Civil, Hydraulic, or Environmental Engineering; often requires engineering licensureBachelor's in Civil Engineering; licensure varies by region
Work EnvironmentDesigning and analyzing hydraulic systems, modeling water flow, working with software toolsDesigning infrastructure projects, site development, construction oversight
Industry UsageWater resources, flood control, hydraulic infrastructure projectsTransportation, structural, water resources, and urban development projects

Hydraulic Modeling Engineers focus on water flow analysis and hydraulic system modeling, often working with specialized software. Civil Engineers have a broader scope, including infrastructure design and construction. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and licensure, but their daily tasks and project focus differ significantly.

More about Hydraulic Modeling Engineer jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Hydraulic Modeling Engineer jobs in California?

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Hydraulic Modeling Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Hydraulic Modeling Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $88,608 per year, or $42.6 per hour.

Hydrologic & Hydraulic (H&H) Engineer

Zephyr U A S Inc

Orange, CA • On-site

$140 - $200/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

About Zephyr Rail

Zephyr Rail is an engineering design and construction management firm based in Orange, CA. We specialize in providing comprehensive solutions in railroad design, construction management, and UAV solutions. We are proud to have earned the Zweig Group’s recognition as a "Best Firms to Work For" for three consecutive years, demonstrating our commitment to our team and our industry.

Job Summary

As a Hydrologic and Hydraulic (H&H) Engineer, you will be key to our design team, leading drainage design, water resources engineering, and hydraulic modeling for complex rail projects, especially for Class I railroads, commuter rail, and transit authorities. You will create engineering solutions, prepare technical reports, support permitting, and collaborate across teams. Your duties include technical analyses, developing drainage solutions, producing detailed reports, designing stormwater systems, and ensuring project compliance with regulations.

Responsibilities
  • Perform hydrologic and hydraulic analyses using tools such as HEC-RAS (1D/2D), HEC-HMS, HY-8, and CivilStorm.
  • Design stormwater systems, culverts, channel improvements, and erosion control measures for rail infrastructure.
  • Conduct floodplain assessments and support FEMA submittals and USACE Section 404 permit applications.
  • Prepare drainage reports, technical memoranda, and plan sets in coordination with project teams.
  • Support QA/QC efforts and mentor junior staff as needed.
  • Interface with clients, Class I railroads, public agencies, and municipalities.
Representative Projects at Zephyr Rail
  • Hydraulic modeling and culvert design supporting LA Metro, Metrolink (SCRRA), CSX, UPRR, and BNSF corridor improvements.
  • Floodplain mitigation for new rail bridge construction in FEMA-regulated areas.
  • Stormwater management design for rail siding extensions, yard capacity improvements, and Quiet Zone projects.
  • Drainage and hydraulic analysis for at-grade crossing upgrades.
  • Emergency drainage assessments related to failed culverts, scour concerns, and storm damage.
Qualifications
  • Bachelor’s degree in civil or environmental engineering (or a related field).
  • Minimum of 5 years of H&H experience, with at least 7 years in Class I railroads (such as UPRR, BNSF, NS, and CSX), commuter rail, or light rail transit projects.
  • California Engineer-in-Training (EIT) is mandatory; California Professional Engineer (P.E.) license is highly preferred.
  • Proficiency with H&H modeling tools and familiarity with MicroStation and/or AutoCAD.
  • Working knowledge of railroad drainage standards, FEMA guidelines, and relevant permitting processes.
  • Authorized to work in the U.S.
Compensation and Benefits
  • Base Salary - $140,000 - $200,000 DOE.
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance – 100% employer-paid for employees; 50% for dependents.
  • Retirement – 401(k) with employer match.
  • Paid Vacation.
  • Paid Holidays.
  • Paid Sick Time.

At Zephyr Rail, we're an equal opportunity employer dedicated to fostering diversity and inclusion.

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