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Hydraulics Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

H&H

Hydraulics and Hydrology Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

H&H is offering an exciting opportunity for a Hydraulics and Hydrology Engineer to join our growing Reston, VA office. H&H is a nationally recognized, full-service infrastructure engineering firm ...

H&H

Hydraulics and Hydrology Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

H&H is offering an exciting opportunity for a Hydraulics and Hydrology Engineer to join our growing Reston, VA office. H&H is a nationally recognized, full-service infrastructure engineering firm ...

H&H

Hydraulics and Hydrology Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

H&H is offering an exciting opportunity for a Hydraulics and Hydrology Engineer to join our growing Reston, VA office. H&H is a nationally recognized, full-service infrastructure engineering firm ...

Bechtel

Senior Hydrology & Hydraulics Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

$106K - $154K/yr

This position will be responsible for providing hydraulic and hydrologic (H&H) engineering support. Main responsibilities include origination and checking of calculations, preparation of reports ...

Bechtel

Senior Hydrology & Hydraulics Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

$106K - $154K/yr

This position will be responsible for providing hydraulic and hydrologic (H&H) engineering support. Main responsibilities include origination and checking of calculations, preparation of reports ...

Genex Systems

Hydraulics Research Engineer

Mclean, VA · On-site

$80K - $124K/yr

Genex Systems has an immediate opening for a Hydraulics Research Engineer to support the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) at the J. Sterling Jones Hydraulics Research Laboratory, part of the ...

Genex Systems

Hydraulics Research Engineer

Mclean, VA · On-site

$80K - $124K/yr

Genex Systems has an immediate opening for a Hydraulics Research Engineer to support the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) at the J. Sterling Jones Hydraulics Research Laboratory, part of the ...

Genex Systems

Hydraulics Research Engineer

Mclean, VA · On-site

$80 - $124/hr

Genex Systems has an immediate opening for a Hydraulics Research Engineer to support the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) at the J. Sterling Jones Hydraulics Research Laboratory, part of the ...

Genex Systems

Hydraulics Research Engineer

Mclean, VA

$80K - $124K/yr

Genex Systems has an immediate opening for a Hydraulics Research Engineer to support the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) at the J. Sterling Jones Hydraulics Research Laboratory, part of the ...

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All JobsHydraulics Engineer JobsHydraulics Engineer Jobs in Virginia

Hydraulics Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$75.3K

$107.3K

$126.9K

How much do hydraulics engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for hydraulics engineer in Virginia is $107,321.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $97,700.00 and $118,500.00 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.

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What job categories do people searching Hydraulics Engineer jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Hydraulics Engineer jobs in Virginia are:

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

Hydraulics Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Hydraulics Engineer job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $107,321 per year, or $51.6 per hour.

Hydraulics and Hydrology Engineer

H&H

Reston, VA • On-site

Full-time

Retirement

Re-posted 18 days ago

Job description

H&H is offering an exciting opportunity for a Hydraulics and Hydrology Engineer to join our growing Reston, VA office.

H&H is a nationally recognized, full-service infrastructure engineering firm delivering innovative solutions that move communities forward. With more than 139 years of experience and over 600 professionals across 32 offices nationwide, we combine deep technical expertise with the agility of a privately owned firm. From planning and design through construction, we manage the full project life cycle while continually advancing our capabilities, strengthening our national presence, and investing in the people who power our growth. At H&H, you'll join a firm that is building on its legacy by aligning expertise, expanding opportunity, and positioning itself for long-term, sustainable growth.

Responsibilities

  • Apply engineering principles to independently execute and coordinate design projects
  • Lead hydrologic and hydraulic analysis of drainage systems and bridge/culvert studies
  • Track effort and manage resources
  • Coordinate design elements with project partners and team members
  • Provide professional mentoring to EITs and Designers
  • Lead the drainage design to supporting schematic designs and PS&E in VA
  • Contribute to proposal management (SOQ's and RFPs)
  • Oversee engineering phases within major/ moderate-sized projects
  • Conduct and oversee hydrologic and hydraulic design calculations for stormwater management and bridge hydraulic studies
  • Coordinate environmental compliance efforts with design teams and permit applications
  • Assist with planning, scheduling, and coordinating design tasks across disciplines
  • Prepare and review technical documents, including plans, specifications and estimates
  • Collaborate with other engineering disciplines for design integration and project support

Requirements

  • BS in Civil Engineering and more than five years' experience in Hydraulics & Hydrology with a concentration on VDOT
  • Licensed Virginia PE; eligibility for comity through other jurisdictions also acceptable
  • Proficient in analyzing field survey data, maps, drawings and topographical information for project design
  • Ability to validate design computations
  • Knowledge and judgment to develop construction cost estimates
  • Skilled in validating design computations and developing construction cost estimates
  • Effective in client meetings and internal team coordination to ensure project deadlines and quality standards
  • Familiar with FHWA, USACE, and AASHTO design guidance and VDEW Stormwater and Soil Erosion Standards
  • VDEQ Stormwater Management (SWM) Plan Reviewer Certification desirable
  • Experience with software such as HEC-RAS, HY-8, SRH-2D, HydroCAD, Storm and Sanitary Analysis, MicroStation (including InRoads or OpenRoads), AutoCAD Civil 3D, GIS software (preferred)
  • Project background with hydrologic/ hydraulic analysis, floodplain studies, hydraulic modeling, bridge scour, and environmental permitting
  • Detail-oriented, self-starting team player adept at managing multiple projects
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills, along with math skills and proficiency in Microsoft Word and Excel

Benefits

We offer a professional work environment, competitive salary, benefits package and 401(k).

EOE M/F/DISABILITY/VETS

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