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Hydraulics Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Transportation Hydraulics Engineer

Tampa, FL · On-site

$73K - $96K/yr

HDR is currently in search of a Transportation Hydraulics Engineer to work in our Transportation Business Group. The Transportation Business Group is active in the aviation, transit, freight railroad ...

Applies engineering techniques, procedures and design criteria for projects ranging in size and complexity. Leverages technical knowledge, experience and client relationships to assist in the ...

Transportation Hydraulics Engineer

Tampa, FL · On-site

$73K - $96K/yr

HDR is currently in search of a Transportation Hydraulics Engineer to work in our Transportation Business Group. The Transportation Business Group is active in the aviation, transit, freight railroad ...

Senior Transportation Hydraulics Engineer

Tampa, FL · On-site

$98K - $135K/yr

HDR is currently in search of a Senior Transportation Hydraulics Engineer to work as a lead in our Transportation Business Group. This individual will be expected to provide leadership support in ...

Thermal Hydraulics Engineer BSE, or advanced degree, in a related engineering field along with the following * Minimum 10 year experience in the nuclear industry and familiar with nuclear power plant ...

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 ...

Applies engineering techniques, procedures and design criteria for projects ranging in size and complexity. Leverages technical knowledge, experience and client relationships to assist in the ...

Applies engineering techniques, procedures and design criteria for projects ranging in size and complexity. Leverages technical knowledge, experience and client relationships to assist in the ...

Applies engineering techniques, procedures and design criteria for projects ranging in size and complexity. Leverages technical knowledge, experience and client relationships to assist in the ...

Applies engineering techniques, procedures and design criteria for projects ranging in size and complexity. Leverages technical knowledge, experience and client relationships to assist in the ...

Hydraulic Engineer We're seeking a Hydraulics Project Engineer to lead hydraulic and stormwater management design for transportation and infrastructure projects. In this role, you will lead our ...

Senior Transportation Hydraulics Engineer

Tampa, FL · On-site

$98K - $135K/yr

HDR is currently in search of a Senior Transportation Hydraulics Engineer to work as a lead in our Transportation Business Group. This individual will be expected to provide leadership support in ...

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

Hydraulics Project Engineer

Boston, MA · Hybrid

$84K - $130K/yr

Hydraulic Engineer We're seeking a Hydraulics Project Engineer to lead hydraulic and stormwater management design for transportation and infrastructure projects. In this role, you will lead our ...

Hydraulic Engineer We're seeking a Hydraulics Project Engineer to lead hydraulic and stormwater management design for transportation and infrastructure projects. In this role, you will lead our ...

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Hydraulics Engineer information

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$76K

$108.3K

$128K

How much do hydraulics engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for hydraulics engineer in the United States is $108,250.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $98,500.00 and $119,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 engineers make $500,000?

Highly experienced engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum engineering, aerospace engineering, and certain senior roles in software engineering can earn $500,000 or more annually. These positions often require advanced skills, certifications, and extensive industry experience, and may include bonuses or stock options that contribute to total compensation.

What do hydrologic engineers do?

Hydrologic engineers analyze and model water systems, including surface and groundwater flow, to solve issues related to water resources, flood control, and environmental impact. They use tools like GIS and hydrologic modeling software and often work on designing drainage systems, flood prevention measures, and water management projects.

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 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 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 does a hydraulic engineer do?

A hydraulic engineer designs, analyzes, and maintains systems that use fluid power, such as water supply, sewage, and hydraulic machinery. They often work with computer-aided design (CAD) tools, conduct site inspections, and ensure systems meet safety and environmental standards.

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.

How much do hydraulic engineers get paid?

Hydraulic engineers typically earn a median annual salary of around $80,000 to $100,000, depending on experience, education, and location. Salaries can increase with specialized skills, certifications, and working in high-demand industries such as construction, manufacturing, or environmental engineering.
What cities are hiring for Hydraulics Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Hydraulics Engineer job openings:
What states have the most Hydraulics Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Hydraulics Engineer jobs include:
What are popular job titles related to Hydraulics Engineer jobs? For Hydraulics Engineer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Hydraulics Engineer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $108,250 per year, or $52 per hour.
Senior Applied Hydraulics Engineer

Senior Applied Hydraulics Engineer

McMillen, Inc.

Boise, ID

$153K - $250K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago


Job description

Design a career and build your future... Because it matters!

Senior Applied Hydraulics Engineer

McMillen, Inc. is seeking a Senior Applied Hydraulics Engineer to join our team. The successful candidate will be a recognized leader in hydraulic engineering for large water resources projects with demonstrated technical expertise, particularly as it applies to dams, hydropower, fisheries, infrastructure, and/or natural resources.

Responsibilities:

  • Lead discussions, meetings, and workshops for project teams and clients.
  • Implement and lead technical and management QA/QC reviews for projects in accordance with client requirements and company policies
  • Prepare and oversee development of project deliverables, including calculation packages, engineering drawings, construction specifications, reports, letters, and technical memoranda across multiple project components.
  • Ensure multiple work elements produced by support staff meet established quality standards and project requirements.
  • Actively manage project and organizational risks associated with deliverables and work products.
  • Participate in the development and execution of strategic initiatives.
  • Direct and delegate workloads effectively while holding staff accountable for performance and results.
  • Train, evaluate, recruit, and mentor staff with the goal of developing future technical and management leaders within the firm.
  • Initiate and lead marketing and business development pursuits.
  • Identify and pursue opportunities with new and existing clients to support business growth.

Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree in Civil or Hydraulic Engineering required
  • Master's degree in Civil or Hydraulic Engineering preferred
  • 15 years of experience in hydraulic engineering (e.g., spillway design, penstock design, fishway design, transient analysis, numerical modeling, power modeling)
  • 10 years of project management experience preferred
  • Professional Engineer (PE) license required
  • Experience with FERC regulations is preferred.
  • Demonstrated skills in stakeholder engagement, persuasion, and negotiation of critical issues
  • Proven ability to effectively integrate resources and talent to build and lead high-performing project teams
  • Ability to provide meaningful input on key business operations and strategic decisions
  • Excellent interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills, with the ability to prioritize and manage multiple concurrent tasks
  • Ability to work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary team environment, lead project tasks, work independently, and remain self-motivated
  • Willingness and ability to travel up to 25% monthly
 

Physical Demands:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. The inability to cope with a stressful work environment does not constitute a protected disability.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to sit. The employee is frequently required to stand; walk; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; climb or balance; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl and talk or hear. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Must be able to travel with luggage and be able to transport materials and personal overnight supplies. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus.

Compensation Package:

  • Pay Range: $153,000 - $250,000 (DOE)
  • Benefits: McMillen provides a full Benefits Program comprising medical, dental, vision, life, disability, FSA, EAP, HSA, 401(k) and match, 9 paid holidays, generous PTO, opportunity for stock ownership, and wellness reimbursement.

EEO: McMillen, Inc. is an EEO/Affirmative Action Employer and will make all employment related decisions without race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability or protected veteran status.

Visa sponsorship, including renewal during employment, will not be provided for this position.

No recruiters, please.