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Hydro Engineer Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Geotechnical Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

$140K - $203K/yr

The projects are hydro power generation with scopes including roadway development, significant ... The Senior Engineering Geologist will provide home-office engineering geology support to the SRP ...

Geotechnical Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site +1

$140K - $203K/yr

The projects are hydro power generation with scopes including roadway development, significant ... The Senior Engineering Geologist will provide home-office engineering geology support to the SRP ...

Quality Engineer

Greenbelt, MD · On-site

$121K - $201K/yr

Quality Engineer BELONG. CONNECT. GROW. with KBR. Around here, we define the future. We are a ... Equipment moves (e.g. slings, cranes, and hydro sets) * Hazardous operations * Contractor responses ...

Quality Engineer

Greenbelt, MD · On-site

$121K - $201K/yr

Quality Engineer BELONG. CONNECT. GROW. with KBR. Around here, we define the future. We are a ... Equipment moves (e.g. slings, cranes, and hydro sets) * Hazardous operations * Contractor responses ...

Senior Structural Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

$140K - $203K/yr

... Hydro. Infrastructure and Power business unit strives to exceed customer objectives through ... As Senior Structural engineer, you will be part of the functional team in the US that will provide ...

Senior Structural Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

$140K - $203K/yr

... Hydro. Infrastructure and Power business unit strives to exceed customer objectives through ... As Senior Structural engineer, you will be part of the functional team in the US that will provide ...

Working knowledge of AutoCAD and Civil 3D and HydroCAD (or similar hydro-modeling software e.g ... Proficient knowledge of water resource engineering principles, practices, process, design/build ...

HV Electrical Lead

Reston, VA · On-site

$140K - $203K/yr

The projects are hydro power generation with scopes including roadway development, significant ... The Senior Electrical Engineer shall work with the team to establish regular meetings with the ...

HV Electrical Lead

Reston, VA · On-site

$140K - $203K/yr

The projects are hydro power generation with scopes including roadway development, significant ... The Senior Electrical Engineer shall work with the team to establish regular meetings with the ...

Some knowledge of civil engineering, cartography surveying and drafting. * Experience with ArcGIS ... Reshaping road layers that should not be over lapping with the Hydro layers * Maintaining live ...

Some knowledge of civil engineering, cartography surveying and drafting. * Experience with ArcGIS ... Reshaping road layers that should not be over lapping with the Hydro layers * Maintaining live ...

... HYDRO Systems - we deliver capability across custom-designed Ground Support Equipment, OEM-licensed engine and airframe tooling, 26 global service centers and innovative engineered solutions for OEMs ...

... HYDRO Systems - we deliver capability across custom-designed Ground Support Equipment, OEM-licensed engine and airframe tooling, 26 global service centers and innovative engineered solutions for OEMs ...

SUE Technician - VA

Arlington, VA

$23 - $31.25/hr

A. as a Subsurface Utility Engineering (SUE) Technician and become a vital part of our field ... Previous experience in construction, electrical, plumbing and/or hydro-vac is beneficial but not ...

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Showing results 1-20

Hydro Engineer information

See Washington salary details

$35.1K

$108.5K

$144.4K

How much do hydro engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for hydro engineer in Washington is $108,498.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $91,700.00 and $131,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a hydro engineer?

Hydro engineers, also known as hydrological or hydraulic engineers, are professionals who specialize in the study and management of water resources. They design, develop, and oversee projects such as dams, water treatment plants, flood control systems, and irrigation networks. Their work involves analyzing the movement, distribution, and quality of water to support sustainable development and prevent water-related hazards. Hydro engineers often collaborate with environmental scientists, civil engineers, and government agencies to ensure efficient and safe water management solutions.

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

To thrive as a Hydro Engineer, you need a solid background in civil or environmental engineering, with expertise in hydraulics, hydrology, and water resource management, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree and professional licensure (e.g., PE). Familiarity with industry-standard design software (like AutoCAD, HEC-RAS, and GIS), as well as knowledge of regulatory frameworks, is essential. Strong analytical thinking, project management, and effective communication skills help you stand out in this role. These skills ensure the safe, efficient, and sustainable design and management of water-related infrastructure projects.

What are some common challenges faced by hydro engineers when working on large-scale hydroelectric projects?

Hydro Engineers often encounter challenges such as balancing environmental concerns with project objectives, managing complex site logistics, and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. Coordinating with multidisciplinary teams—including environmental scientists, civil engineers, and local authorities—is essential to address issues like fish migration, sediment management, and community impact. These projects typically require strong problem-solving skills and adaptability, as unexpected weather conditions or geological discoveries can impact project timelines and budgets.

What is the difference between Hydro Engineer vs Civil Engineer?

AspectHydro EngineerCivil Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Civil, Mechanical, or Environmental Engineering; often requires PE or FE certificationBachelor's in Civil Engineering; PE license often preferred
Work EnvironmentHydropower plants, dams, water resource projectsConstruction sites, infrastructure projects, urban planning
Industry UsageWater resources, renewable energy, hydropowerConstruction, transportation, urban development

Hydro Engineers focus on water-related projects like dams and hydropower, requiring specialized knowledge in water systems. Civil Engineers have a broader scope, working on various infrastructure projects. Both roles often share similar credentials and work environments, but Hydro Engineers specialize in water resources and energy projects.

How much do hydro engineers make?

Hydro engineers typically earn a median annual salary of around $70,000 to $100,000, depending on experience, location, and level of education. Senior roles or those with specialized skills in water resource management or project design can earn higher salaries, often exceeding $120,000. Salaries may also vary based on industry sector and employer size.

What are the most commonly searched types of Hydro Engineer jobs in Washington?

The most popular types of Hydro Engineer jobs in Washington are:

What cities in Washington are hiring for Hydro Engineer jobs?

Cities in Washington with the most Hydro Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Hydro Engineer job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $108,498 per year, or $52.2 per hour.

Geotechnical Engineer

Reston, VA • On-site


Bechtel

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 65 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

286th of 450 rated engineering

Great coworkers

People enjoy working here

Good employer


$140K - $203K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 9 days ago


Job description

Requisition ID: 295710
  • Relocation Authorized: None
  • Telework Type: Full-Time Office/Project
  • Work Location: Reston, VA
  • Salary Range: $140,800 - $203,700 annually (salary range is based on market data; final salary offered is determined by education, experience, and qualifications of the applicant.)

Extraordinary teams building inspiring projects:
Since 1898, we have helped customers complete more than 25,000 projects in 160 countries on all seven continents that have created jobs, grown economies, improved the resiliency of the world's infrastructure, increased access to energy, resources, and vital services, and made the world a safer, cleaner place.
Differentiated by the quality of our people and our relentless drive to deliver the most successful outcomes, we align our capabilities to our customers' objectives to create a lasting positive impact. We serve the Infrastructure; Nuclear, Security & Environmental; Energy; Mining & Metals, and the Manufacturing and Technology markets. Our services span from initial planning and investment, through start-up and operations.
Core to Bechtel is our Vision, Values and Commitments. They are what we believe, what customers can expect, and how we deliver. Learn more about our extraordinary teams building inspiring projects in our Impact Report.
Project Overview
We are building high performing teams to deliver complex EPC heavy civil project and looking for motivated, hands-on, collaborative innovators, doers, and problem solvers. The projects are hydro power generation with scopes including roadway development, significant structures including dams, spillways, tunnel waterways, inlet/outlet structures, hydromechanical equipment, mechanical and electrical systems, and site facilities and buildings. This is your opportunity to be part of history making projects.
Job Summary:
The Senior Engineering Geologist will provide home-office engineering geology support to the SRP Pumped Storage Project, with primary responsibility for geological interpretation, documentation, and baseline development. The role supports both design and construction phases through data analysis, model development, and technical review, while coordinating closely with the site-based geology team.
This position is primarily based in Reston, VA, with periodic travel to the Arizona project site as required. #LI-ML1
Major Responsibilities:
  • Develop and review geological interpretations in support of underground and surface works design.
  • Lead or support preparation and review of Geotechnical Baseline Reports, Data Reports, technical memoranda, and related contractual documents.
  • Interpret borehole logs, geological models, laboratory data, and geophysical results to support design assumptions and risk assessments.
  • Provide technical support to site-based geology and construction teams, including review of field observations and mapped conditions.
  • Support evaluation of ground condition deviations relative to baselines and assist with technical input to change management and claims support.
  • Coordinate geological inputs with geotechnical engineering, civil, structural, and construction disciplines.
  • Review instrumentation data and support interpretation of ground performance trends.
  • Participate in design reviews, constructability reviews, and project risk workshops.
  • Apply Bechtel engineering standards, work processes, and quality requirements to all deliverables.

Education and Experience Requirements:
  • BS or MS in Engineering Geology, Geological Engineering, Geotechnical Engineering, or related geosciences discipline.
  • Minimum 10 years of progressive experience in engineering geology on major infrastructure projects.

Required Knowledge and Skills:
  • Experience preparing and reviewing GBRs and related geotechnical contractual documents.
  • Proficiency with geological and data management software (e.g., Leapfrog, OpenGround, GIS platforms).
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills.
  • Ability to work effectively in a multi-disciplinary team environment.
  • Willingness to travel periodically to the project site.

Total Rewards/Benefits:
For decades, Bechtel has worked to inspire the next generation of employees and beyond! Because our teams face some of the world's toughest challenges, we offer robust benefits to ensure our people thrive. Whether it is advancing careers, delivering programs to enhance our culture, or providing time to recharge, Bechtel has the benefits to build a legacy of sustainable growth. Learn more at Bechtel Total Rewards
Diverse teams build the extraordinary:
As a global company, Bechtel has long been home to a vibrant multitude of nationalities, cultures, ethnicities, and life experiences. This diversity has made us a more trusted partner, more effective problem solvers and innovators, and a more attractive destination for leading talent.
We are committed to being a company where every colleague feels that they belong-where colleagues feel part of "One Team," respected and rewarded for what they bring, supported in pursuing their goals, invested in our values and purpose, and treated equitably. Click here to learn more about the people who power our legacy.
At Bechtel, our employees enjoy a competitive total rewards package that includes comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans, along with optional disability and supplemental insurance options, generous paid time off (160 hours annually, accrued 6.16 hours per pay period), nine paid holidays, paid parental leave, discretionary bonuses, and a well-designed 401K plan with matching and profit-sharing components
Bechtel is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, age, national origin, disability, citizenship status (except as authorized by law), protected veteran status, genetic information, and any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law. Applicants with a disability, who require a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process, may e-mail their request to acesstmt@bechtel.com

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