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Hydrology Engineering Jobs in Decatur, AL (NOW HIRING)

Engineering design including geometric design of highways and streets, drainage design (hydrology and hydraulics) * Prepare construction plans and project displays * Assist in roadway plan set design ...

Hydrology Engineering information

See Decatur, AL salary details

$26.2K

$58.8K

$109.7K

How much do hydrology engineering jobs pay per year?

As of May 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for hydrology engineering in Decatur, AL is $58,848.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $35,600.00 and $83,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Hydrology Engineer, you need a solid background in civil or environmental engineering, hydrology, and mathematics, usually backed by a relevant degree and professional engineer (PE) licensure. Familiarity with hydrologic modeling software (such as HEC-HMS or SWMM), GIS systems, and data analysis tools is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills are essential to collaborate with multidisciplinary teams and convey complex findings. These competencies are crucial for accurately assessing water resources, designing sustainable solutions, and ensuring the safety and resilience of infrastructure projects.

What are some typical challenges faced by hydrology engineers when working on water resource projects?

Hydrology engineers often encounter challenges such as unpredictable weather patterns, limited historical data, and changing land use, which can complicate accurate water flow modeling and forecasting. Additionally, balancing the needs of various stakeholders—including environmental groups, government agencies, and local communities—requires strong communication and negotiation skills. Working with interdisciplinary teams is common, and successful hydrology engineers are adept at collaborating with civil engineers, environmental scientists, and urban planners to develop sustainable water management solutions.

What does a hydrology engineer do?

A hydrology engineer studies and manages the movement, distribution, and quality of water in the environment. They analyze rainfall, runoff, and groundwater to design systems for water supply, flood control, and environmental protection. Their work often involves using computer models and field data to predict water behavior and recommend solutions for water-related challenges. Hydrology engineers play a key role in ensuring communities have safe water and are protected from flooding and drought.

What is the difference between Hydrology Engineering vs Civil Engineering?

AspectHydrology EngineeringCivil Engineering
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Hydrology, Civil, or Environmental Engineering; Professional Engineer (PE) license often preferredBachelor's in Civil Engineering; PE license common for licensed engineers
Work EnvironmentFieldwork, data analysis, modeling, research in water-related projectsDesign, construction, and maintenance of infrastructure like roads, bridges, and water systems
Employer & Industry UsageGovernment agencies, environmental firms, water resource companiesConstruction firms, government agencies, consulting firms

Hydrology Engineering focuses specifically on water flow, flood management, and water resource systems, while Civil Engineering covers a broader range of infrastructure projects. Both roles often require similar credentials and may work together on projects involving water infrastructure.

What job categories do people searching Hydrology Engineering jobs in Decatur, AL look for? The top searched job categories for Hydrology Engineering jobs in Decatur, AL are:
Project Manager - Hydrology and Hydraulics

Project Manager - Hydrology and Hydraulics

Garver

Huntsville, AL

$18 - $22.25/hr

Full-time

Posted 29 days ago


Garver rating

6.0

Company rating: 6.0 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

324th of 349 rated engineering


Job description

Garver seeks a Project Manager - Hydrology and Hydraulics to join our growing Transportation Team in North Little Rock, AR; Frisco, TX; Houston, TX; South Oklahoma City, OK; Tulsa, OK; Birmingham, AL; Huntsville, AL; Kansas City, MO; Overland Park, KS with the ability to collaborate with clients and design engineers on engineering projects for federal and state agencies, municipalities, and other jurisdictions.
Primary responsibilities of this Project Manager will include working with an established team to perform hydrologic and hydraulic analysis and design for municipal and DOT clients across Garver's footprint. Along with collaborating with multi-disciplinary design engineers, this role will include management, marketing, subconsultant coordination, project/task scheduling, plan production oversight, preparing cost estimates, and client interaction.
Requirements
  • Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering or related engineering discipline from an ABET-accredited program with emphasis in water resources engineering
  • Licensed as a Professional Engineer (PE)
  • Minimum of 7 years of relevant consulting and design experience
  • Minimum of 2 years of engineering project management experience
  • Advanced knowledge of hydrologic and hydraulic analysis and design
  • Advanced experience with HEC software such as HEC-HMS and HEC-RAS
  • Experience with two-dimensional hydraulic modeling preferred
  • Experience with GIS software and application to H amp;H modeling, analysis, and design
  • Experience with Microstation, InRoads, GEOPAK, OpenRoads, and/or other design software a plus
  • Excellent communication skills
  • Previous experience in consulting engineering with a primary focus on hydrology and hydraulics projects
Grow With Us
Garver offers its employees programs such as company-paid professional memberships, company support for industry licenses and continuing education opportunities that foster a progressive atmosphere. Garver provides the tools, resources, and environment to develop leaders, stimulate ideas, and accomplish projects. By offering highly competitive salary packages, attractive benefits, and a comprehensive wellness program; Garver walks the talk when it comes to work-life balance.
Founded in 1919, Garver is an employee-owned engineering, planning, and environmental services firm focused on aviation, transportation, buildings, federal, water and wastewater services; surveying; advisory services; and construction engineering and inspection. In the top 100 of Engineering News-Record’s Top 500 Design Firms list, with more than 1,400 employees, Garver provides an exceptional level of client service that reflects our people-first culture, which has achieved Zweig Group Best Firm to Work For Legacy Status. Learn how Garver invests in people and places they call home at GarverUSA.com.
Garver is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all applicants and employees. Our employment practices are based upon an individual's capabilities and qualifications without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other category protected by law.
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