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Hydraulics Engineer Jobs in Ohio (NOW HIRING)

Transportation Hydraulics Engineer

Columbus, OH · On-site

$78K - $102K/yr

HDR currently has an opening for a Transportation Hydraulics Engineer to join our team in the Ohio Offices. The primary duties are to provide project engineering, task management and project ...

Transportation Hydraulics Engineer

Columbus, OH · On-site

$78K - $102K/yr

HDR currently has an opening for a Transportation Hydraulics Engineer to join our team in the Ohio Offices. The primary duties are to provide project engineering, task management and project ...

Transportation Hydraulics Engineer

Columbus, OH · On-site

$78K - $102K/yr

HDR currently has an opening for a Transportation Hydraulics Engineer to join our team in the Ohio Offices. The primary duties are to provide project engineering, task management and project ...

... hydraulics, collection system planning, and computer modeling, combined with data analytics, to ... Engineer-in-Training (EIT) certification or a Professional Engineer (PE) license, or the ability to ...

... hydraulics, collection system planning, and computer modeling, combined with data analytics, to ... Engineer-in-Training (EIT) certification or a Professional Engineer (PE) license, or the ability to ...

... hydraulics, collection system planning, and computer modeling, combined with data analytics, to ... Engineer-in-Training (EIT) certification or a Professional Engineer (PE) license, or the ability to ...

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Showing results 1-20

Hydraulics Engineer information

See Ohio salary details

$72.3K

$102.9K

$121.7K

How much do hydraulics engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for hydraulics engineer in Ohio is $102,912.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $93,600.00 and $113,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a hydraulics engineer?

A hydraulics engineer is a civil engineer who specializes in the properties and movement of liquids like water and sewage. In hydraulics engineering jobs, projects include designing or overseeing structures like dams, bridges, and canals. They may also work with machinery that utilizes hydraulic power. These professionals usually have a bachelor’s in engineering and a master’s degree in hydraulics. Most find work with state and local government agencies or private firms.

What does a hydraulics engineer do?

A Hydraulics Engineer designs, analyzes, and manages systems and structures that use liquid flow, primarily water, to perform various functions. Their work often involves creating hydraulic systems for dams, water treatment facilities, irrigation networks, flood control, and piping systems. They apply principles of fluid mechanics to solve engineering challenges, ensure safety, and optimize the efficiency of hydraulic systems. Hydraulics Engineers also conduct simulations, oversee construction, and maintain compliance with environmental and safety regulations.

What are some common challenges hydraulics engineers face when working on large-scale infrastructure projects?

Hydraulics Engineers working on large-scale infrastructure projects often encounter challenges such as integrating complex fluid dynamics models with real-world site constraints, coordinating with multidisciplinary teams, and ensuring compliance with evolving environmental regulations. Managing timelines and budgets while adapting designs to unexpected site conditions, like variable soil quality or unforeseen weather patterns, is also common. Effective communication with civil engineers, project managers, and regulatory agencies is crucial for navigating these challenges and delivering successful outcomes.

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

To thrive as a Hydraulics Engineer, a strong background in fluid mechanics, civil or mechanical engineering, and a relevant engineering degree is essential. Familiarity with technical tools such as AutoCAD, HEC-RAS, and hydraulic modeling software, along with a Professional Engineer (PE) license, is typically required. Strong problem-solving, communication, and project management skills help engineers collaborate effectively and deliver innovative solutions. These competencies ensure accurate design, analysis, and implementation of hydraulic systems critical for infrastructure and environmental sustainability.

What is the difference between Hydraulics Engineer vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectHydraulics EngineerMechanical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Mechanical, Civil, or Hydraulic Engineering; Professional Engineer (PE) license often preferredBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering; PE license optional but beneficial
Work EnvironmentDesigning hydraulic systems, testing components, working in labs or on-site for fluid systemsDesigning mechanical systems, manufacturing, testing, and maintenance in various industries
Industry UsageWater resources, hydraulic machinery, fluid power systemsAutomotive, aerospace, manufacturing, energy

Hydraulics Engineers specialize in fluid power systems and hydraulic machinery, focusing on designing and testing hydraulic components. Mechanical Engineers have a broader scope, working on various mechanical systems across industries. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and certifications but differ in their specific focus and work environments.

What are popular job titles related to Hydraulics Engineer jobs in OH?

For Hydraulics Engineer jobs in OH, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Hydraulics Engineer job openings in Ohio as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $102,912 per year, or $49.5 per hour.

Transportation Hydraulics Engineer

HDR

Columbus, OH • On-site

$78K - $102K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 15 days ago


HDR rating

9.2

Company rating: 9.2 out of 10

Based on 59 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

32nd of 449 rated engineering


Job description

At HDR, our employee-owners are fully engaged in creating a welcoming environment where each of us is valued and respected, a place where everyone is empowered to bring their authentic selves and novel ideas to work every day. As we foster a culture of inclusion throughout our company and within our communities, we constantly ask ourselves: What is our impact on the world?
Watch Our Story:' https://www.hdrinc.com/our-story' 
Each and every role throughout our organization makes a difference in our ability to change the world for the better. Read further to learn how you could help make great things possible not only in your community, but around the world. 
HDR currently has an opening for a Transportation Hydraulics Engineer to join our team in the Ohio Offices. 

The primary duties are to provide project engineering, task management and project management with a focus on transportation projects and public transportation clients throughout the Midwest Region. Anticipated work tasks may include; conduct hydrologic and hydraulic modeling; conduct stormwater collection systems modeling and design, conduct stormwater management modeling and design; collect, assimilate, and present data in reports, memos and public forums; lead production of design calculations and technical reports; and lead preparation of engineering plans and specifications for design of detention facilities, storm drains, flood control facilities, and other hydraulic structures. Will work independently as well as plan, organize, and lead small to medium groups of professionals and technicians dependent on project/task. Will conduct water resources planning, plan formulation, concept development, and develop planning documentation. Will assist in stormwater permitting efforts. Will be involved with and lead teams in highway drainage design and plan production for ODOT and Municipal clients, drainage analysis and documentation, and stormwater management design & permitting and project management.

Preferred Qualifications
  • 3+ years of experience in Drainage engineering projects

  • Strong leadership, planning, mentoring and staff management experience

  • Technical proficiency in hydrologic and hydraulic design and analysis, modeling, and preparing drainage reports.

  • Previous work experience with A/E/C firm

Keywords: Transportation Hydraulics Engineer, Drainage Engineer, Water Resources Engineer, Hydraulic Engineer, Hydrologic Engineer, Hydrologic Modeling, Hydraulic Modeling, Stormwater Modeling & Design, Stormwater Management, Stormwater Collection Systems, Flood Control Design, Detention Facility Design, Highway Drainage Design, Drainage Analysis, Water Resources Planning, Engineering Calculations, Technical Report Writing, Engineering Plans & Specifications, Hydrology & Hydraulics (H&H) Analysis, Stormwater Permitting, Drainage Reports, Data Analysis & Presentation, Concept Development, Plan Production, Infrastructure Design, Hydrologic Analysis, Hydraulic Modeling (1D / 2D), H&H Modeling (Hydrology & Hydraulics), Stormwater Management Systems, Drainage Design & Analysis, Flood Mitigation & Floodplain Analysis, Stream Restoration & Rehabilitation, Scour Analysis / Scour Investigations, Erosion & Sediment Control, Culvert & Bridge Hydraulics, Stormwater Collection Systems, Water Resources Infrastructure Design, HEC-RAS (1D/2D), HEC-HMS, SRH-2D, AutoCAD Civil 3D, MicroStation / OpenRoads Designer, StormCAD, ArcGIS Pro

#LI-EH1

Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering or equivalent field
  • Previous experience in water resources engineering projects
  • Requires professional engineering license recognized by the licensing board for the location of the position offered. Example: Professional Engineer (PE or P.Eng) license.
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills
  • An attitude and commitment to being an active participant of our employee-owned culture is a must

What We Believe
HDR is our company. Together, we build on each other's life experiences and perspectives to make great things possible every day. This shapes our collaborative culture, encourages organizational trust and connects us closer to the clients and communities we serve.
Our Commitment
As employee owners, we all have a role in creating an inclusive environment where each of us is welcomed, valued, respected and empowered to bring our authentic selves to work every day.
Our eight Employee Network Groups (Asian Pacific, Black, Hispanic/Latino(a), LGBTQ+, People with Disabilities, Veterans, Women, Young Professionals) help create a sense of belonging and foster a supportive environment where everyone is empowered to engage and contribute. Each group has an executive sponsor and is open to all employees.


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About HDR

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At HDR, we specialize in engineering, architecture, environmental and construction services. While we are most well-known for adding beauty and structure to communities through high-performance buildings and smart infrastructure, we provide much more than that. We create an unshakable foundation for progress because our multidisciplinary teams also include scientists, economists, builders, analysts and artists.

Industry

Specialized design services

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Omaha, NE, US

Year founded

1917