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Hydrologic Modeling Jobs (NOW HIRING)

HDR's Hydraulic Modeling practice focuses on the application of modern mathematical modeling to understand the hydraulics and hydrologic processes. One- and two-dimensional hydraulic models and ...

HDR's Hydraulic Modeling practice focuses on the application of modern mathematical modeling to understand the hydraulics and hydrologic processes. One- and two-dimensional hydraulic models and ...

Experience with hydraulic and hydrologic modeling (HEC RAS 1D/2D, HEC HMS, or similar) * Experience developing grading plans and stormwater drainage plans * Experience preparing construction plan ...

In this role, you will perform hydrologic and hydraulic (H&H) modeling for complex infrastructure and transportation projects, using industry-leading tools such as HEC-RAS, HEC-HMS, SWMM, and ...

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Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

The Colorado River Management and Hydrologic Modeling Section is responsible for supporting the agency Director as the designated Governor's Representative managing Colorado River negotiations and ...

Engineer III

Conroe, TX · On-site

$110K - $128K/yr

... hydrologic and hydraulic modeling submittals to support development plan applications and ensure compliance with applicable standards and regulations • Perform hydraulic and hydrologic modeling ...

Showing results 41-60

Hydrologic Modeling information

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$29K

$93.9K

$133.5K

How much do hydrologic modeling jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for hydrologic modeling in the United States is $93,893.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $79,000.00 and $108,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is hydrologic modeling?

Hydrologic modeling is the process of simulating the movement, distribution, and quality of water within natural and built environments using mathematical models. These models help scientists and engineers predict how water flows through rivers, lakes, and underground aquifers, and how it is affected by factors like rainfall, land use, and climate change. Hydrologic modeling is essential for water resource management, flood forecasting, and environmental protection. The models can range from simple calculations to complex computer simulations, depending on the needs of a particular study or project.

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

To thrive as a Hydrologic Modeler, you need a strong background in hydrology, mathematics, and environmental science, typically supported by a relevant degree such as civil engineering or environmental engineering. Expertise in modeling software like HEC-HMS, SWMM, or MODFLOW, as well as proficiency with GIS and programming languages such as Python or MATLAB, is often required. Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are crucial soft skills that help convey complex findings to stakeholders. These competencies are essential for developing accurate models, informing water resource management decisions, and collaborating effectively within multidisciplinary teams.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in hydrologic modeling roles, and how can they be addressed?

Hydrologic modeling professionals often encounter challenges such as managing large and complex datasets, ensuring model accuracy given limited or imperfect data, and adapting models to changing environmental conditions. Collaborating closely with engineers, GIS specialists, and field technicians is crucial to verify model inputs and outputs. Staying updated on the latest modeling software and methodologies, as well as participating in cross-disciplinary team meetings, can help address these challenges and ensure robust, reliable hydrologic predictions.

What is the difference between Hydrologic Modeling vs Hydrologist?

AspectHydrologic ModelingHydrologist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Hydrology, Environmental Science, or related fields; technical skills in modeling softwareBachelor's or Master's in Hydrology, Environmental Science, or related fields; often includes fieldwork experience
Work EnvironmentPrimarily office-based, working with computer models and data analysisFieldwork and office work, collecting data and analyzing hydrological systems
Employer & Industry UsageEnvironmental agencies, consulting firms, research institutionsGovernment agencies, research institutions, consulting firms

Hydrologic Modeling focuses on creating computer simulations of water systems to predict behavior, while Hydrologists study water resources through fieldwork and data analysis. Both roles often collaborate but differ in their primary methods and tools.

What other helpful pages are available for Hydrologic Modeling?

Other pages related to Hydrologic Modeling:

Infographic showing various Hydrologic Modeling job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 87% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $93,893 per year, or $45.1 per hour.

Senior Hydraulic Modeler

Woodcliff Lake, NJ

HDR
Specialized Design Services • 5 - 10K employees

Full-time

Re-posted 13 days ago


HDR rating

8.9

Company rating: 8.9 out of 10

Based on 61 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


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's Hydraulic Modeling practice focuses on the application of modern mathematical modeling to understand the hydraulics and hydrologic processes. One- and two-dimensional hydraulic models and processing tools, including visualization and animation routines, are routinely applied to problems associated with flooding, combined and sanitary sewer modeling, and water distribution quantity and quality modeling. Projects may include the design and execution of field monitoring efforts. 

Description

HDR needs a Senior Hydraulic Modeler/Planner to join our Water Business Group team in New York/New Jersey offices. The ideal candidate will have a background of leading teams in the delivery of utility management, master planning, facility planning, and hydraulic modeling projects associated with water supply, stormwater, sanitary and combined sewer collection, and water reuse systems. The Senior Hydraulic Modeler/Planner will be responsible for leading or contributing to the preparation of planning studies, development and calibration of water, stormwater, and wastewater hydraulic models, performance of GIS data analysis, alternatives analysis, execution of infrastructure renewal and rehabilitation studies, preliminary engineering, cost analysis, and capital project development. 

Responsibilities also include client interaction such as the development of proposals, scopes and level of effort estimates, project presentations, and report writing. This role may include the supervision of teams, mentoring and quality assurance/quality control activities for hydraulic modeling and master planning projects.

In the role of Senior Hydraulic Modeler, we'll count on you to: 
  • Provide project and task management; conduct difficult to complex hydraulic and hydrologic modeling; conduct stormwater collection systems 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
  • Work independently in addition to planning, organizing and supervising the work of medium to large teams of professionals and technicians dependent on project/task
  • Serve as project manager on larger projects as needed
  • Prepare proposal, scopes of work and contract cost estimates
  • Perform other duties as needed

Preferred Qualifications:

  • MS in Civil or Environmental Engineering or related field a plus.
  • Proficiency in ArcGIS Pro, mapping and analysis
  • Knowledge and experience with software such as InfoWorks ICM, WaterGEMS, EPA/XP/PCSWMM, HECHMS, HECRAS, InfoWater, and HydroCAD 
  • Infrastructure design experience
  • Experience mentoring junior modeling and planning staff
  • Experience working for a public, municipal, or investor-owned water and/or wastewater utility, public works department, or engineering consulting firm is beneficial
  • Experience assisting with project budgeting, project management and client management activities
  • Experience working with clients within New York / New Jersey
  • Local Candidates 

Keyword(s): HYDROLOGY, HYDRAULICS, COMBINED SEWER, WASTERWATER, DRINKING WATER, STORMWATER, WATERSHED MODELING

Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering or equivalent field
  • A minimum of 10 years Water Resources experience
  • Requires professional engineering license recognized by the licensing board for the location of the position offered. Example: Professional Engineer (PE or P.Eng) license.
  • HEC-1, HEC-RAS, GEO-RAS, Storm CAD, Haested Methods
  • Experience in water resources planning, hydrology/hydraulics and drainage/flood control design
  • Familiarity with DOT drainage design criteria
  • Experience in FEMA studies a plus
  • Excellent writing and communication skills
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a project team
  • 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