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Hydrology Jobs in Rio Rancho, NM (NOW HIRING)

Trilon

Drainage Engineer

Albuquerque, NM

Perform hydrologic and hydraulic modeling using industry-standard software (e.g., Civil 3D, HEC-RAS, HEC-HMS, XP-SWMM, InfoDrainage, or similar) * Apply local, regional, and national drainage ...

Trilon Group

Drainage Engineer

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$105K - $125K/yr

Perform hydrologic and hydraulic modeling using industry-standard software (e.g., Civil 3D, HEC-RAS, HEC-HMS, XP-SWMM, InfoDrainage, or similar) * Apply local, regional, and national drainage ...

ERM

Wetland Delineators (Field Based)

Albuquerque, NM

$18.25 - $24.25/hr

Identify and document OHWM, hydrologic indicators, and geomorphic features of waterbodies. * Conduct T&E species habitat assessments, evaluating habitat suitability and relevant ecological conditions.

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All JobsHydrology JobsHydrology Jobs in Rio Rancho, NM

Hydrology information

See Rio Rancho, NM salary details

$26.3K

$59K

$110.1K

How much do hydrology jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for hydrology in Rio Rancho, NM is $59,046.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $35,700.00 and $83,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is hydrology and what do hydrologists do?

Hydrology is the scientific study of the movement, distribution, and quality of water on Earth, including the water cycle, water resources, and environmental watershed sustainability. Hydrologists are scientists who analyze how water interacts with the environment, including precipitation, surface water, groundwater, and their impacts on ecosystems and human activities. They often work on managing water resources, predicting floods and droughts, and solving water-related problems such as pollution or scarcity. Their work is essential for agriculture, urban planning, environmental protection, and disaster preparedness.

What are some common challenges hydrologists face when working on field studies, and how can they be managed?

Hydrologists often encounter challenges such as unpredictable weather, difficult terrain, and limited accessibility to remote study sites during fieldwork. To manage these, professionals typically plan field visits carefully, use specialized equipment for data collection, and collaborate closely with team members to ensure safety and data accuracy. Flexibility and strong problem-solving skills are essential, as hydrologists must adapt to changing conditions and troubleshoot issues in real time. Collaborative teamwork and clear communication also play a crucial role in overcoming logistical obstacles and ensuring successful project outcomes.

What is the difference between Hydrology vs Hydraulics?

AspectHydrologyHydraulics
Required CredentialsBachelor's or master's in hydrology, environmental science, or civil engineeringBachelor's or master's in civil engineering, mechanical engineering, or related fields
Work EnvironmentFieldwork, data analysis, environmental agencies, research institutionsDesign, testing, and analysis of fluid systems, often in construction or manufacturing
Industry UsageWater resource management, environmental protection, researchFluid system design, hydraulic engineering, infrastructure projects

Hydrology focuses on the study of water movement, distribution, and quality in natural systems, while hydraulics deals with the behavior of fluids in engineered systems. Both fields often overlap but serve different purposes: hydrologists manage water resources and environmental concerns, whereas hydraulic engineers design systems like dams, pipes, and pumps.

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

To thrive as a Hydrologist, you need a strong background in environmental science, mathematics, and geology, usually backed by a bachelor’s or master’s degree in hydrology or a related field. Familiarity with GIS software, remote sensing tools, hydrologic modeling systems, and sometimes professional certifications like the Professional Hydrologist (PH) credential are commonly required. Excellent analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills help hydrologists interpret data and collaborate with diverse teams. These competencies are crucial for accurately assessing water resources, predicting water-related risks, and informing sustainable management decisions.
What are popular job titles related to Hydrology jobs in Rio Rancho, NM? For Hydrology jobs in Rio Rancho, NM, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Rio Rancho, NM are hiring for Hydrology jobs? Cities near Rio Rancho, NM with the most Hydrology job openings:
Hydrology jobs near you
Infographic showing various Hydrology job openings in Rio Rancho, NM as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 8% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,616 per year, or $27.2 per hour.
Experienced Civil EIT - Water Resources

Experienced Civil EIT - Water Resources

Kimley-Horn

Albuquerque, NM

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 17 days ago

Kimley-Horn rating

8.9

Company rating: 8.9 out of 10

Based on 86 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

37th of 375 rated engineering

Job description

Overview

Kimley-Horn's Albuquerque, NM office is seeking a Civil Engineer-in-Training (EIT) with 1+ year of experience to join their Surface Water team. This is not a remote position. 

Responsibilities
  • The successful candidate can expect to work in a dynamic team environment on a range of projects including:
    • Surface water management studies
    • Hydrologic and hydraulic modeling
    • Analysis and design
    • Flood studies, resiliency and vulnerability assessments
    • Green infrastructure planning and design
  • As a critical member of the team, you will perform a variety of engineering tasks and will receive both on-the-job and formal training as well as mentorship and exposure to plan production, project financials, and client interactions
Qualifications
  • 1+ years of experience with surface water modeling and/or design
  • Bachelors or Masters from an ABET accredited university in the field of Civil Engineering
  • "Engineer-In-Training" or "Engineering Intern" certification (or ability to obtain within 12 months)
  • Experience building and calibrating Hydraulic/Hydrology models such as ICPR4, HEC-HMS, HEC-RAS (1D and 2D), and SWMM
  • Working knowledge of ESRI ArcGIS (AutoCAD Civil 3D or Microstation a plus) 
  • Excellent verbal, written, and interpersonal skills
  • Strong sense of urgency and self-initiative to meet client deadlines
  • Detail-oriented with an ability to contribute to a positive work environment
  • Ability to work independently and as a team
  • Python programing experience desired but not required
Why Kimley-Horn?

At Kimley-Horn, we do things differently. People, clients, and employees are at the forefront of who we are. Clients know we prioritize achieving their goals and growing their success. Employees know our culture and approach to business are built on a desire to provide an environment for everyone to flourish. Our commitment to quality is only as good as the people behind it- that's why we welcome and develop passionate, hardworking, and proactive employees. We take pride in how our employee retention, robust benefits package, and company values have led to Kimley-Horn's placement on the Fortune "100 Best Companies to Work" list for 19 years!

Key Benefits at Kimley-Horn

  • Exceptional Retirement Plan: 2-to1- company match on up to 4% of eligible compensation (salary + bonus) and additional profit-sharing contribution.
  • Comprehensive Health Coverage: Low-cost medical, dental, and vision insurance options.
  • Time Off: Personal leave, flexible scheduling, floating holidays, and half-day Fridays.
  • Financial Wellness: Student loan matching in our 401(k), and performance-based bonuses.
  • Professional Development: Tuition reimbursement and extensive internal training programs.
  • Family-Friendly Benefits: New Parent Leave, family building benefits, and childcare resources.
Education:Bachelor's DegreeEmployment Type: FULL_TIME

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About Kimley-Horn

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

We are a full-service consulting firm that provides a wide range of infrastructure and land development planning and engineering services to both public and private clients. Though we have more than 6,000 employees in 100+ offices, we pride ourselves on our small company feel. At Kimley-Horn, we do things differently. People--clients and employees--are at the forefront of our business. Clients know we are laser-focused on their success. Employees know our culture and approach to business are built on a desire to see our staff flourish, one and all. Both groups know that with Kimley-Horn, they can expect more and experience better.

Industry

Specialized design services

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Raleigh, NC, US

Year founded

1967

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