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Hydrology Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Mead & Hunt

Hydrology & Hydraulics Engineer

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$80K - $107K/yr

A bachelor's degree (or higher) in civil engineering or related engineering field from an accredited college or university AND at least two (2) years of relevant hydrology & hydraulics experience The ...

Forest Service

Hydrologist

Bishop, CA · On-site +1

$50K - $80K/yr

... hydrology, the physical sciences, geophysics, chemistry, engineering science, soils, mathematics, aquatic biology, atmospheric science, meteorology, geology, oceanography, or the management or ...

Forest Service

Hydrologist

Redding, CA · On-site +1

$61K - $97K/yr

... hydrology, the physical sciences, geophysics, chemistry, engineering science, soils, mathematics, aquatic biology, atmospheric science, meteorology, geology, oceanography, or the management or ...

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Hydrology Engineer information

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$37.5K

$81.6K

$121.4K

How much do hydrology engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for hydrology engineer in California is $81,591.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $66,600.00 and $97,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a hydrology engineer do?

A hydrology engineer analyzes water systems, including rainfall, runoff, and groundwater, to design flood control, drainage, and water management solutions. They use modeling software and field data to assess water flow and develop plans for infrastructure projects, often working in environmental or civil engineering contexts.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a hydrology engineer?

To thrive as a Hydrology Engineer, you need a strong background in hydrology, environmental engineering, and mathematics, usually supported by a relevant engineering degree and professional licensure such as a PE. Proficiency in modeling software (e.g., HEC-HMS, SWMM), GIS tools, and data analysis platforms is commonly required, along with knowledge of regulations and permitting processes. Excellent analytical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication with multidisciplinary teams and stakeholders are important soft skills. These competencies are essential for accurately assessing water resources, managing projects, and ensuring environmentally sound engineering solutions.

What is a hydrology engineer?

A Hydrology Engineer specializes in studying and managing the movement, distribution, and quality of water in natural and built environments. They analyze rainfall patterns, groundwater flow, and river systems to develop solutions for flood control, water conservation, and environmental protection. Their work often involves using computer models and field data to predict water-related impacts and design infrastructure like dams, drainage systems, and irrigation projects. Hydrology Engineers collaborate with environmental scientists, urban planners, and government agencies to ensure sustainable water resource management.

What types of projects do hydrology engineers typically work on, and what does a typical day look like?

Hydrology Engineers often work on projects such as flood risk assessments, stormwater management system designs, watershed studies, and the development of sustainable water supply solutions. A typical day may involve analyzing environmental data, performing hydrologic and hydraulic modeling, preparing technical reports, and meeting with clients or regulatory agencies. You may also spend time in the field collecting samples or monitoring water systems, as well as collaborating closely with civil engineers, environmental scientists, and project managers. This diverse work structure offers hands-on experience and significant opportunities to take on increased project responsibility or move into management roles as you gain expertise.

What are the most commonly searched types of Hydrology Engineer jobs in California? The most popular types of Hydrology Engineer jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Hydrology Engineer jobs in California? For Hydrology Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Hydrology Engineer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Hydrology Engineer jobs in California are:
Hydrology Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Hydrology Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $81,591 per year, or $39.2 per hour.

Hydrology & Hydraulics Engineer

Mead & Hunt

Sacramento, CA • On-site

$80K - $107K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 13 days ago

Mead & Hunt rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

275th of 446 rated engineering

Job description

Mead & Hunt, a nationally recognized professional services consulting firm, is seeking a client focused problem-solver to join our collaborative and innovative water resources team.
Responsibilities include:
  • Analyzing dam and hydropower facilities, water conveyance systems, levee systems, bridges/culverts, watersheds and floodplains
  • Construction document and cost development
  • Writing reports
  • Directing activities of other project staff
  • Quality control reviews
  • Client communication
  • Designing water resources and other civil engineering projects

Some travel will be required.
The successful candidate must have:
  • A bachelor's degree (or higher) in civil engineering or related engineering field from an accredited college or university AND at least two (2) years of relevant hydrology & hydraulics experience

The ideal candidate will have experience with any/all of the following:
  • HEC-HMS, HEC-RAS (including two-dimensional modeling), SWMM, HydroCAD or closely related software
  • Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) modeling with FLOW-3D HYDRO, Ansys Fluent, or similar
  • Spreadsheet and coding solutions for engineering applications including MS Excel, VBA, Python, MatLab, or similar
  • AutoCAD Civil 3D
  • ESRI GIS (ArcGIS Pro or similar) for data editing and geoprocessing workflows
  • Floodplain modeling/mapping including experience with FEMA
  • Dam failure analysis and inundation mapping
  • Watershed hydrology and open channel hydraulics
  • Bridge/culvert H&H analysis and modeling
  • Erosion protection design
  • Dam and spillway H&H analysis and design
  • Probable maximum flood (PMF) estimation
  • Pump and pipeline design
  • Coastal engineering
  • Presentations to clients/owners and/or at industry conferences
  • Writing technical reports
  • Leading tasks, providing guidance, and coordinating with others who assisted with the task

If you have strong communication and organizational skills, are self-motivated, and can work well both independently and as part of a team, complete the online application process for this job posting at www.meadhunt.com/careers.
Mead & Hunt proudly offers medical, dental, and vision insurance, paid time off, paid sick leave, parental leave, a 401K plan with a generous company match, life and disability insurance, and an employee assistance program.
Salary Range: $80,000 to $107,000 - Actual compensation may vary due to other factors such as: experience, skill set or location.
Employment is contingent upon successful completion of applicable pre-employment screening requirements.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, or disability.
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