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Hydrology Engineering Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Lead Water Resources Engineer-Atlanta

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$76K - $103K/yr

Minimum of 5 years of experience in hydraulic and hydrology engineering or a related field. * Proficiency in engineering software such as HEC-RAS, HEC-HMS, SWMM, and GIS. Preferred Qualifications:

Bachelor's degree in Hydrology, Water Resources, Environmental Science, Geology, Civil Engineering, or a related scientific discipline from an accredited institution. * Professional experience ...

Engineer IV

Grants, NM · On-site

$89K - $155K/yr

Typically requires a bachelors degree, masters degree or PhD in Geology, Hydrogeology, Hydrology, Engineering Geology, Civil Engineering, or related from an accredited institution and progressive ...

Lead Water Resources Engineer-Atlanta

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$76K - $103K/yr

Minimum of 5 years of experience in hydraulic and hydrology engineering or a related field. * Proficiency in engineering software such as HEC-RAS, HEC-HMS, SWMM, and GIS. Preferred Qualifications:

Hydrology & Hydraulics Design Engineer

Jackson, MS · Hybrid

$71K - $92K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering or related field required * 4 to 8 years of relevant hydrology and hydraulics experience * Experience with H&H modeling software (HEC-RAS, HEC-HMS, HY-8, etc.

Bachelor's degree in Hydrology, Water Resources, Environmental Science, Geology, Civil Engineering, or a related scientific discipline from an accredited institution. * Professional experience ...

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Hydrology Engineering information

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$28K

$62.8K

$117K

How much do hydrology engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for hydrology engineering in the United States is $62,774.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,000.00 and $88,500.00 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 can I do with a degree in hydrology?

A degree in hydrology prepares individuals for careers as hydrology engineers, environmental consultants, water resource managers, or flood risk analysts. These roles involve analyzing water systems, developing sustainable management plans, and using tools like GIS and modeling software. Certification and field experience can enhance job prospects in this specialized field.

What do you mean by hydrology?

Hydrology is the scientific study of water movement, distribution, and properties on Earth. Hydrology engineers analyze water systems, such as rivers, lakes, and watersheds, often using modeling tools and field data to support water resource management and infrastructure projects.

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 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.

Is hydrology a hard class?

Hydrology engineering courses can be challenging because they involve complex concepts in fluid mechanics, environmental science, and data analysis. Success often requires strong math skills, understanding of scientific principles, and proficiency with tools like GIS and modeling software.

What does a hydrologist do?

A hydrologist studies water resources, including the distribution, movement, and properties of surface and groundwater. They analyze data using tools like GIS and modeling software to assess water availability, quality, and flood risks, often working for government agencies, environmental firms, or research institutions.

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.

More about Hydrology Engineering jobs
What cities are hiring for Hydrology Engineering jobs? Cities with the most Hydrology Engineering job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Hydrology Engineering jobs? The most popular types of Hydrology Engineering jobs are:
What states have the most Hydrology Engineering jobs? States with the most job openings for Hydrology Engineering jobs include:
Infographic showing various Hydrology Engineering job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, and 4% Part Time. Highlights an 85% Physical, 8% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $62,774 per year, or $30.2 per hour.
Utility, Site Design, and Hydraulics & Hydrology Engineer-Boston

Utility, Site Design, and Hydraulics & Hydrology Engineer-Boston

WSP

Manhattan, NY

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 6 days ago


WSP rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 67 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

15th of 57 rated business consultants


Job description

 This Opportunity

WSP is seeking a Utility, Site Design, and Hydraulics & Hydrology Engineer to join our growing New England Water Practice in the Boston, Massachusetts Office. This candidate will utilize their professional experience and technical knowledge of civil, water resources, and hydraulic engineering to support projects including water distribution and conveyance design, site/civil design, stormwater and drainage design, floodplain management and flood control, dam safety evaluations, hydraulic structure design, and resiliency planning.

The candidate will support and lead hydrologic and hydraulic (H&H) analyses and modeling for a variety of water resources and dam safety projects, including watershed studies, riverine flooding evaluations, spillway and outlet works assessments, bridge and culvert hydraulics, stormwater management systems, and flood mitigation studies. The role will include the application of industry standard hydraulic and hydrologic modeling software such as HEC-RAS (1D/2D), HEC-HMS, SRH 2D, HydroCAD, AutoCAD, Civil 3D, ArcGIS, and other related tools.

The candidate will be involved in projects with our East Water Team and be a part of a growing organization that meets our client's objectives and solves their challenges. 

WSP employees actively champion Inclusion & Diversity programs and initiatives throughout the country at the national, regional, and local levels. Here in the Northeast region, we act on the company's inclusion, diversity, equity, and belonging principles through a variety of committees that partner with professional organizations, lead STEM outreach in our communities, and facilitate regular learning opportunities through Lunch & Learn discussions. 

WSP employees also actively engage in local and state chapters of professional organizations such as AWWA, ACEC, ASCE, MEWEA, and many others. Upper management supports these initiatives and all employees are invited to join their local chapters. Our Boston office also offers monthly Young Professionals 501s and supports the Developing Professionals Network (DPN) which provides opportunities for young professionals to network, attend professional development opportunities, and socialize with the New England region. We put on events to celebrate holidays in the office, lunch and learns on career development & project spotlights, and social outings like Red Sox games and volunteering opportunities. We have over 150 members in the Boston office and the group meets monthly.

Your Impact

  • Planning and engineering designs and bid packages for site redevelopment projects including water, drainage, and water resources projects.
  • Write reports documenting findings, conclusions and recommendations.
  • Perform GIS and AutoCad Civil 3D analyses and design to support engineering and technical services.
  • Perform hydrologic and hydraulic analyses and modeling for stormwater, riverine, dam safety, and infrastructure projects.
  • Develop H&H models to evaluate flooding, conveyance capacity, scour, sediment transport, spillway adequacy, and hydraulic performance of water infrastructure systems.
  • Support dam safety engineering evaluations, inspections, rehabilitation design, and regulatory compliance projects.
  • Participate in periodic dam inspections and condition assessments, including preparation of engineering reports and recommendations for maintenance, rehabilitation, and risk reduction measures.
  • Attend project meetings involving communication to federal, state and local government officials.
  • Research, evaluate and apply regulatory requirements, codes and guidelines from local, state and federal agencies.
  • Work as an individual or as part of a cross-functional team to execute project work.
  • Assist with work plan preparation and coordination of field work permitting.
  • Assist with development and scoping of small- to medium-sized projects.
  • Complete training on assigned tasks.
  • Exercise responsible and ethical decision-making regarding company funds, resources and conduct, and adhere to WSP's Code of Conduct and related policies and procedures.
  • Support and mentor entry level engineers.
  • Perform additional responsibilities as required by business needs.

Who You Are

Required Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's Degree in Civil or Environmental Engineering or a related field.
  • 4 to 6 years of relevant post education experience in civil engineering, site redevelopment design, stormwater/drainage design, potable water and/or sanitary sewer.
  • Knowledge of water resource engineering principles, practices, process, design/build, and the application to environmental permitting and project work-related issues.
  • EIT or ability to obtain one in 6 months with a desire to work towards additional professional licensure
  • Proficiency in AutoCAD Civil 3D required.
  • Experience with HydroCAD, HEC-RAS and/or ArcGIS a plus.
  • Experience with MS Office software (Word, Excel, Power Point, & Project) required.
  • Must function independently with minimal supervision in a multi-disciplinary team setting which includes engineers, planners and environmental scientists.
  • Ability to perform field work/site visits required and some travel required. Must possess a valid US driver's license.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Must demonstrate strong organizational skills, and the ability to multi-task, prioritize, and take direction ensuring the quality of deliverables.
  • Proven track record of upholding workplace safety and ability to abide by WSP's health, safety and drug/alcohol and harassment policies.
  • Ability to work schedules conducive to project-specific requirements that may extend beyond the typical workweek.
  • Ability to perform field work/site visits, including dam inspections and construction observations.
  • Approximately 20% travel expected for project meetings, field investigations, dam inspections, and client coordination.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's Degree in Engineering.
  • Project experience in the MA/NY area a plus.
  • Essential Professional Licensure/Certification or ability to obtain one in 1 year.
  • A member of and/or actively participate in local professional practice organizations.

Compensation

Expected Salary: $75,600 - $110,000

WSP USA is providing the compensation range that the company in good faith believes it might pay and offer for this position, based on the successful applicant's education, experience, knowledge, skills, abilities in addition to internal equity and specific geographic location. WSP USA reserves the right to ultimately pay more or less than the posted range and offer additional benefits and other compensation, depending on circumstances not related to an applicant's sex or other status protected by local, state, and/or federal law

#LI-MF1
 

About WSP

WSP USA is the U.S. operating company of WSP, one of the world's leading engineering and professional services firms. Dedicated to serving local communities, we are engineers, planners, technical experts, strategic advisors and construction management professionals. WSP USA designs lasting solutions in the buildings, transportation, energy, water and environment markets. With more than 15,000 employees in over 300 offices across the U.S., we partner with our clients to help communities prosper.

www.wsp.com

WSP provides a flexible and agile workplace model while meeting client needs. Employees are also afforded a comprehensive suite of benefits including medical, dental, vision, disability, life, and retirement savings focused on providing health and financial stability throughout the employee's career.

At WSP, we want to give our employees the challenges they seek to grow their careers and knowledge base. Your daily contributions to your team will be essential in meeting client objectives, goals and challenges. Are you ready to get started?

WSP USA (and all of its U.S. companies) is an Equal Opportunity Employer Race/Age/Color/Religion/Sex/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity/National Origin/Disability or Protected Veteran Status.

The selected candidate must be authorized to work in the United States.

NOTICE TO THIRD PARTY AGENCIES:

WSP does not accept unsolicited resumes from recruiters, employment agencies, or other staffing services. Unsolicited resumes include any resume or hiring document sent to WSP in the absence of a signed Service Agreement where WSP has expressly requested recruitment/staffing services specific to the position at hand.  Any unsolicited resumes, including those submitted to hiring managers or other business leaders, will become the property of WSP and WSP will have the right to hire that candidate without reservation - no fee or other compensation will be owed or paid to the recruiter, employment agency, or other staffing service. 


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