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Hydraulics Engineer Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

Senior Dam Safety Engineer

Cary, NC · On-site

$93K - $126K/yr

Lead the design of new and rehabilitated hydraulic structures - including dams, spillways, gates ... Conduct engineering analyses, evaluations, and designs; develop design options and recommendations ...

Lead the design of new and rehabilitated hydraulic structures -- including dams, spillways, gates ... Conduct engineering analyses, evaluations, and designs; develop design options and recommendations ...

Senior Dam Safety Engineer

Cary, NC · On-site

$93K - $126K/yr

Lead the design of new and rehabilitated hydraulic structures - including dams, spillways, gates ... Conduct engineering analyses, evaluations, and designs; develop design options and recommendations ...

Water Resources Engineer I

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$69K - $95K/yr

The Opportunity RS&H is currently seeking a Water Resources Engineer for our Transportation ... Experience with 2-dimensional bridge hydraulics modeling * Experience using ArcGIS for water ...

Water Resources Engineer I

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$69K - $95K/yr

RS&H is currently seeking a Water Resources Engineer for our Transportation Practice in our ... Experience with 2-dimensional bridge hydraulics modeling * Experience using ArcGIS for water ...

Water Resources Engineer I

Raleigh, NC

$69K - $95K/yr

The Opportunity RS&H is currently seeking a Water Resources Engineer for our Transportation ... Experience with 2-dimensional bridge hydraulics modeling * Experience using ArcGIS for water ...

Showing results 41-60

Hydraulics Engineer information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$73.9K

$105.2K

$124.4K

How much do hydraulics engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for hydraulics engineer in Raleigh, NC is $105,227.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $95,800.00 and $116,200.00 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 Raleigh, NC?

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

Infographic showing various Hydraulics Engineer job openings in Raleigh, NC as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $105,227 per year, or $50.6 per hour.

Civil Engineer - Roadway Drainage

Raleigh, NC • On-site

Kimley-Horn
Specialized Design Services • 5 - 10K employees

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 7 days ago


Kimley-Horn rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 87 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Overview

Kimley-Horn's Raleigh, North Carolina (NC) office is seeking a Civil Engineer with 4+ years of experience to join their Roadway team! This is not a remote position.

Responsibilities
  • Support our growing Roadway and water resources practices and will require working with multi-disciplinary teams for a variety of existing and new public clients 
  • Work in a dynamic team environment on a range of projects including roadway projects (new alignment and widening), pedestrian improvement projects, surface water management studies, hydrologic and hydraulic modeling, analysis and design, flood studies, bridge hydraulics, green infrastructure planning and design
  • Prepare Hydraulic/Hydrology studies, drainage areas maps, storm sewer networks, pipe profiles, drainage descriptions, stormwater management facilities/BMPs, drainage reports, design documents, and design plans and specifications for roadway water resources projects
  • Technical writing in the form of memorandums, feasibility studies, regulatory submittals (including CLOMR/LOMR submittals to FEMA), and master plans
  • Assist with developing scopes of work and associated budgets
  • This is an exciting opportunity to work with a team of engineers and designers on a variety of projects
  • You will flourish on both building meaningful internal and external professional relationships
  • You will work closely and collaboratively with other industry leading professionals, various jurisdictions, and contractors
Qualifications
  • 4+ years of relevant engineering design experience
  • Professional Engineering (P.E.) License (or ability to obtain within 12 months)
  • Experience with Microstation/OpenRoads, AutoCAD, ArcGIS, HydroCAD, SWMM, HEC-RAS, HEC-HMS, StormCAD, and other related hydrologic/hydraulic analysis and roadway design software
  • Experience working on projects reviewed and approved by the state's DOT including application of the state's DOT Drainage Manual and 2016 Road & Bridge Standards desired
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills
  • Positive attitude, self-motivated; sense of urgency to produce high quality work
  • Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines
  • Entrepreneurial spirit with the potential/desire to lead a practice and manage clients and a team
Why Kimley-Horn?

At Kimley-Horn, we do things differently. People, clients, and employees are at the forefront of who we are. Clients know we prioritize achieving their goals and growing their success. Employees know our culture and approach to business are built on a desire to provide an environment for everyone to flourish. Our commitment to quality is only as good as the people behind it- that's why we welcome and develop passionate, hardworking, and proactive employees. We take pride in how our employee retention, robust benefits package, and company values have led to Kimley-Horn's placement on the Fortune "100 Best Companies to Work" list for 19 years!

Key Benefits at Kimley-Horn

  • Exceptional Retirement Plan: 2-to1- company match on up to 4% of eligible compensation (salary + bonus) and additional profit-sharing contribution.
  • Comprehensive Health Coverage: Low-cost medical, dental, and vision insurance options.
  • Time Off: Personal leave, flexible scheduling, floating holidays, and half-day Fridays.
  • Financial Wellness: Student loan matching in our 401(k), and performance-based bonuses.
  • Professional Development: Tuition reimbursement and extensive internal training programs.
  • Family-Friendly Benefits: New Parent Leave, family building benefits, and childcare resources.
Education:Bachelor's DegreeEmployment Type: FULL_TIME

What Kimley-Horn employees say

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About Kimley-Horn

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

We are a full-service consulting firm that provides a wide range of infrastructure and land development planning and engineering services to both public and private clients. Though we have more than 6,000 employees in 100+ offices, we pride ourselves on our small company feel. At Kimley-Horn, we do things differently. People--clients and employees--are at the forefront of our business. Clients know we are laser-focused on their success. Employees know our culture and approach to business are built on a desire to see our staff flourish, one and all. Both groups know that with Kimley-Horn, they can expect more and experience better.

Industry

Specialized design services

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Raleigh, NC, US

Year founded

1967