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Modflow Groundwater Modeling Jobs in Chicago, IL

Geologist

Chicago, IL · On-site

$55K - $72K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Familiarity or experience with ArcView, GIS, CAD, Microsoft Access, Modflow and other groundwater flow / transport models, etc. * Previous experience as an intern with a consulting firm or within the ...

Modflow Groundwater Modeling information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$55.1K

$83.1K

$126.2K

How much do modflow groundwater modeling jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for modflow groundwater modeling in Chicago, IL is $83,118.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $70,600.00 and $89,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Modflow Groundwater Modeling vs Hydrogeologist?

AspectModflow Groundwater ModelingHydrogeologist
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in geology, environmental science, or hydrology; familiarity with modeling softwareRequires a degree in geology, hydrogeology, or related field; often includes fieldwork experience
Work EnvironmentPrimarily office-based, using specialized modeling software; some field data collectionMix of office work and fieldwork, including site assessments and sampling
Industry UsageUsed by environmental consulting firms, government agencies, and research institutions for groundwater flow simulationsEmployed in environmental consulting, resource management, and research for site evaluations and resource assessments

While Modflow Groundwater Modeling focuses on creating computer models to simulate groundwater flow, Hydrogeologists apply their geological knowledge in both field and office settings to assess and manage groundwater resources. Both roles often collaborate but serve different primary functions within the industry.

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

To thrive as a Modflow Groundwater Modeler, you need a strong background in hydrogeology, groundwater flow principles, and numerical modeling, typically supported by a degree in environmental engineering or earth sciences. Expertise in Modflow software, GIS tools, and data analysis platforms like Python or MATLAB is essential, and certifications in groundwater modeling can be advantageous. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills help convey complex technical findings to diverse stakeholders. These skills are crucial for producing accurate groundwater models that inform environmental management and decision-making.

What are some typical challenges faced when working on Modflow groundwater modeling projects and how can they be addressed?

Professionals working with MODFLOW groundwater modeling often encounter challenges such as data limitations, model calibration difficulties, and complex hydrogeologic conditions. Addressing these issues requires careful collection and validation of input data, iterative calibration using observed field measurements, and close collaboration with hydrogeologists and field teams to interpret results accurately. Staying updated with the latest MODFLOW versions and tools, as well as regularly communicating with stakeholders, can also help in overcoming technical and project management hurdles.

What is Modflow groundwater modeling?

Modflow groundwater modeling refers to the use of MODFLOW, a widely used computer program developed by the US Geological Survey, to simulate the flow of groundwater through aquifers. MODFLOW helps hydrologists and engineers understand groundwater conditions, predict the effects of water management strategies, and assess environmental impacts. By creating a numerical model of groundwater systems, users can analyze how changes in pumping, recharge, or land use might affect water levels and flows.

What are popular job titles related to Modflow Groundwater Modeling jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Modflow Groundwater Modeling jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Modflow Groundwater Modeling jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Modflow Groundwater Modeling jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Infographic showing various Modflow Groundwater Modeling job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 76% In-person, 10% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $83,118 per year, or $40 per hour.

Early-Career Water Resources Engineer

Geosyntec Consultants, Inc.

Oak Brook, IL • On-site

$79K - $109K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

Overview

Do you want to build an impactful career to change the world for the better? 

Geosyntec has an exciting opportunity for an Early-Career Water Resources Engineer in our Oak Brook, IL office. This position is well suited for a water resources professional with hands-on experience in hydrologic, hydraulic, groundwater, and pollutant transport modeling; spatial data analysis and visualization; field monitoring; and technical reporting. The role will provide opportunities to apply civil, environmental, and water resources engineering knowledge to address real-world water quality, stormwater, watershed, and contaminant control challenges, including projects related to National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES), Total Maximum Daily Loads (TMDLs), Combined Sewer Overflows (CSOs), data analysis, sampling, and reporting, while also building the consulting and client service skills needed for long-term career growth.

Geosyntec is an innovative, international engineering and consulting firm serving private and public-sector clients to address new ventures and complex problems involving our environment, natural resources, and civil infrastructure. Our engineers, scientists, technical and project employees serve our clients from offices across the world. Ranked by ENR as one of the top environmental engineering design firms, Geosyntec is internationally known for its technical leadership, broad experience, and exceptional client service.

We invest in our people.  Each employee is unique, and your career at Geosyntec will be too.  We offer competitive pay and benefits, and well-being programs to support you and your family.

To Learn More Visit: http://www.geosyntec.com/careers/.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities
  • Collaborating with interdisciplinary teams of engineers, scientists, clients, agencies, and stakeholders on water resources, stormwater, water quality, contaminant fate and transport, and remediation-related projects.
  • Developing, calibrating, and evaluating hydrologic, hydraulic, groundwater, and pollutant transport models for watersheds, stream systems, stormwater infrastructure, surface-groundwater systems, and contaminated sites.
  • Applying tools such as EPA-SWMM, SWAT, HEC-RAS, EFDC, and related modeling platforms to support water quality, flooding, nutrient management, and remediation evaluations.
  • Processing, organizing, and analyzing spatial, land cover, soil, climate, hydrologic, groundwater, and water quality datasets using GIS, Python, and statistical methods.
  • Preparing maps, figures, 2D/3D visualizations, model inputs, and technical graphics to communicate complex water resources and contaminant transport findings.
  • Conducting field investigations, including surface water, sediment, and sampling; installation and maintenance of monitoring equipment; and surveying activities.
  • Managing, evaluating, and summarizing monitoring data, model results, and scenario analyses for technical teams, clients, stakeholders, and regulatory audiences.
  • Reviewing state and federal regulations, permits, and technical guidance related to surface water, groundwater, stormwater, water quality, and contaminant control.
  • Preparing technical reports, memoranda, presentations, and other client-ready deliverables.
  • Drive personal, company, and rental vehicles to client or company project or office sites, and other business locations, as needed.
Education and Licensure
  • Bachelor's degree in environmental, water resources, hydraulic, or civil engineering; natural resources science; or a closely related field. (required)
  • Advanced degree in environmental engineering, water resources science, civil engineering, or a related engineering discipline. (preferred)
  • Engineer-in-Training (E.I.T.) certification, or ability to obtain, where applicable. (preferred)
Skills, Experience and Qualifications
  • At least 2 years of related academic, research, internship, or professional experience in water resources, environmental engineering, hydrologic/hydraulic modeling, water quality modeling, groundwater modeling, or contaminant fate and transport. (preferred)
  • Experience with hydrologic, hydraulic, groundwater, and pollutant transport modeling tools such as EPA-SWMM, SWAT, HEC-RAS and EFDC, MODFLOW, MODPATH, MT3D, SWAT, PHREEQC, PFLOTRAN, or similar platforms. (preferred)
  • Proficiency using GIS and spatial analysis tools such as ArcGIS Pro, QGIS, GeoPandas, Rasterio, Google Earth Engine, or similar applications to develop model inputs, maps, and data visualizations. (required)
  • Programming and data analysis experience using Python and/or R, including tools for data processing, statistical analysis, model support, visualization, or automation. (preferred)
  • Experience using scripting, automation, machine learning, data science, or cloud-based workflows to support environmental modeling and analytics. (preferred)
  • Experience developing technical figures, maps, and 2D/3D visualizations using tools such as EVS, Adobe Illustrator, GIS platforms, or related visualization software. (preferred)
  • Field experience with surface water, sampling; installation or maintenance of gauges, piezometers, pressure transducers, or dataloggers; and survey methods. (preferred)
  • Ability and willingness to perform fieldwork and travel. (required)
  • Strong technical writing, presentation, communication, data interpretation, and problem-solving skills, including experience preparing reports, manuscripts, conference presentations, or agency/stakeholder-facing materials. (required)
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office suite. (required)
  • Valid U.S. driver's license and a satisfactory driving record for business travel. (required)

This opportunity will be posted for at least five days. Below are the potential compensation ranges that we in good faith believe are applicable for this role at the time of this posting and are only applicable for jobs to be performed in the specified location(s) below. The typical base salary range for this position is just one component of Geosyntec's total compensation package for employees. Actual compensation will be determined based on education, experience, skill set and location.

  • Minimum Salary: $70,520/year / Maximum Salary: $102,080/year (Oakbrook, IL)

We offer a comprehensive benefits package to all eligible employees including, 9 paid holidays, 2 floating holidays, a minimum of 8 sick days, and a minimum of 11 vacation days per year, in line with state or federal requirements. Employees (and their families) are offered medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance, 401(k), a variety of leaves of absences and other benefits to eligible employees.

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Employment Type: FULL_TIME