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River Restoration Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Ecological Restoration Engineer

Alpharetta, GA · On-site

$100K - $131K/yr

Technically support the design and analysis of stream, river, and wetland restoration projects on a ... Provide engineering expertise to clients ranging from federal, state, and local agencies, Tribal ...

Junior Restoration Engineer Location: Bellingham, Wenatchee, Tacoma, Seattle, WA Job Type: Regular ... The applicant will have 0 to 2 years of experience working on river and stream restoration and/or ...

Junior Restoration Engineer Location: Bellingham, Wenatchee, Tacoma, Seattle, WA Job Type: Regular ... The applicant will have 0 to 2 years of experience working on river and stream restoration and/or ...

Junior Restoration Engineer Location: Bellingham, Wenatchee, Tacoma, Seattle, WA Job Type: Regular ... The applicant will have 0 to 2 years of experience working on river and stream restoration and/or ...

Civil Engineering

South Lake Tahoe, CA · On-site

$96K - $120K/yr

Bachelor's Degree in Mid-Level Ecological Restoration Design / Stormwater Engineer * 5+ years of professional experience in stormwater design, ecological restoration, river restoration, or wetland ...

Civil Engineer

Sacramento, CA · On-site +1

$133K - $160K/yr

The San Joaquin River Restoration Program is a multi-agency, comprehensive, long-term effort to ... Engineering. To be acceptable, the program must: (1) lead to a bachelor's degree in a school of ...

Provide technical excellence and thought leadership in the areas of river/stream restoration, fish ... Perform construction engineering and observation. The Strengths You Bring * A Master's degree in ...

Showing results 21-40

River Restoration Engineer information

See salary details

$45K

$84K

$119K

How much do river restoration engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for river restoration engineer in the United States is $84,039.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $72,000.00 and $93,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a river restoration engineer do?

A River Restoration Engineer designs and implements projects to restore the natural function, ecology, and appearance of rivers and streams. Their work includes assessing river health, managing erosion, improving habitats for wildlife, and ensuring water quality. They often collaborate with ecologists, hydrologists, and community stakeholders to develop sustainable solutions. The goal is to balance the needs of the environment, local communities, and regulatory requirements while mitigating the impacts of past human activities.

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

To thrive as a River Restoration Engineer, you typically need a background in civil or environmental engineering, hydrology, and ecological restoration, usually supported by a relevant engineering degree and licensure (such as a PE). Familiarity with GIS software, hydraulic modeling tools, and environmental permitting processes is essential for designing and implementing restoration projects. Strong project management, teamwork, and communication skills help coordinate multidisciplinary teams and engage stakeholders. These skills ensure effective, sustainable river restoration that balances ecological goals with regulatory and community needs.

What are some common challenges faced by river restoration engineers during project implementation?

River Restoration Engineers often encounter challenges such as balancing ecological goals with community needs, dealing with unpredictable weather or site conditions, and securing necessary permits from regulatory agencies. Collaboration with hydrologists, biologists, and local stakeholders is key to addressing these issues effectively. Additionally, adapting designs to unforeseen site-specific constraints and ensuring long-term sustainability of restoration efforts are important aspects of the role.

What is the difference between River Restoration Engineer vs Environmental Engineer?

AspectRiver Restoration EngineerEnvironmental Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Civil, Environmental, or related fields; certifications like EIT or PE often preferredBachelor's or Master's in Environmental Engineering or related fields; similar certifications
Work EnvironmentFieldwork at river sites, environmental consulting firms, government agenciesLaboratories, field sites, consulting firms, government agencies
Industry UsageFocused on river and stream ecosystems, habitat restoration projectsBroader environmental issues including water, air, waste management

River Restoration Engineers specialize in restoring river ecosystems, often working directly at project sites, while Environmental Engineers address a wider range of environmental concerns. Both roles require similar credentials and often work in overlapping environments, but their focus areas differ significantly.

What are popular job titles related to River Restoration Engineer jobs?

For River Restoration Engineer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various River Restoration Engineer job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, and 6% Part Time. Highlights an 91% In-person, 6% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $84,039 per year, or $40.4 per hour.

Senior Water Resources Engineer/Project Manager

Appleton, WI • On-site

GEI Consultants
Civil Engineering Construction • 1 - 5K employees

$96K - $125K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 15 days ago


GEI Consultants rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

285th of 454 rated engineering


Job description

Description
Your role at GEI.
GEI's Water Resources practice is growing and we are seeking an experienced Water Resources/Stream Restoration Engineer to join our Central Region (in office or fully remote). Our team is made up of leaders in the dam removal and river restoration practice and looking to expand in Minnesota and Wisconsin. Candidate will be part of a connected team of GEI water resources professionals across the country. This individual will contribute to planning and implementation of water resource projects, serving as a project manager, technical lead and mentor. Candidate will help to drive business development by fostering strong client relationships and participation in professional organizations.
Essential Responsibilities & Duties
  • Manage small to large projects within technical specialty. Potential projects include, dam removals, river restoration, watershed management planning, stormwater management planning and design.
  • Develop hydrologic and hydraulic models for a range of projects such as, feasibility studies, design of river restoration, water control structures, flood control studies, and watershed analysis and planning.
  • Oversee and lead technical studies, design development, and development of construction drawings, technical specifications, bid documents and project schedules.
  • Prepare detailed written memoranda and reports on technical assignments and present technical information to peers and clients;
  • Lead development of proposals to provide professional services and strive to develop new business in areas of specialty. Candidate will interface with client to understand and deliver on project needs.
  • Maintain technical excellence, actively participate in professional organizations, and mentor junior staff.
  • The candidate may be expected to act as the Engineer of Record on projects.
  • Travel to project sites and other offices as required, including overnight travel.
  • Grant writing and/or administration. Experience either with writing or administering state and local grants is a plus.
  • Working knowledge of State, Federal and Local regulatory and permitting requirements.

Minimum Qualifications
  • Minimum of 15 years of professional experience demonstrating skills mentioned above;
  • B.S. Degree in Civil Engineering or Water Resources related field, M.S. considered a plus.
  • Registered Professional Engineer.
  • Ability to work in a team environment and meet deadlines.
  • Possess a valid driver's license.
  • Must have excellent written and oral communication skills and be able to work well alone and in a team atmosphere.
  • Ability to travel on temporary work assignments.

We are GEI.
Some of the world's most pressing problems - from climate change to sustainable development, to critical infrastructure and the future of our energy supply - need our brightest and diverse minds working together to create safer, more resilient communities for tomorrow.
We are technical experts, collaborators, and entrepreneurs who draw from diverse backgrounds to solve our clients' most complex challenges.
With several offices across North America, we offer a range of engineering, science, and technical consulting services. Our range of expertise, project types, and culture make us the choice for top talent in the AEC industry. See all our office locations here .
Employee-owned. Employee-focused.
As an employee-owned company, our employees support our flat leadership structure, have a say in how our business operates and benefit from our financial success. We are committed to employee growth with career development opportunities, competitive total rewards, a well-being program, flexible work arrangements and more. Our company culture is driven by our 4 Cs - we are Client-Centered, Curious, Collaborative, and Community Minded - which support our focus on sustainability, safety, diversity, equity and inclusion. Get to know us better by visiting GEI's career site here .
GEI's Total Rewards Package Includes
  • Market-Competitive Compensation, including Eligibility for an Annual Performance Bonus
  • Comprehensive Benefits Program, including Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Disability and More
  • Well-Being Program and Paid Parental Leave
  • Commuter Benefits
  • Hybrid Work Schedules and Cell Phone Stipends
  • GEI University (GEIU) with Continuing Education Assistance and Tuition Reimbursement
  • Connecting Conversation Program with a Focus on Professional Development and Opportunities for Advancement
  • Support and Financial Rewards for Publication Awards, Professional Dues, and Professional Licenses
  • Paid Holidays and Generous Paid Time Off Program
  • Rewards and Recognition
  • GEI-Funded Profit Sharing and 401(k)
  • Opportunity to be an Owner and Shareholder (Learn more here )
  • A Vibrant Culture that is Focused on Partnership, Sustainability, Giving Back to Our Communities and Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
  • And More...

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
WORK ENVIRONMENT
Functional Demands:
Sedentary
X
Light
Medium
Other
Activity Level Throughout Workday (check one per row)
Physical Activity Requirements
Occasional
(0-35% of day)
Frequent
(33-66% of day)
Continuous
(67-100% of day)
Not Applicable
Sitting
X
Standing
X
Walking
X
Climbing
X
Lifting (floor to waist level) (in pounds)
X
Lifting (waist level and above) (in pounds)
X
Carrying objects
X
Push/pull
X
Twisting
X
Bending
X
Reaching forward
X
Reaching overhead
X
Squat/kneel/crawl
X
Wrist position deviation
X
Pinching/fine motor skills
X
Keyboard use/repetitive motion
X
Taste or smell (taste=never)
X
Talk or hear
X
Accurate 20/40
Very Accurate 20/20
Not Applicable
Near Vision
X
Far Vision
X
Yes
No
Not Applicable
Color Discrimination
X
Sensory Requirements
Minimal
Moderate
Accurate
Not Applicable
Depth perception
X
Hearing
X
Environment Requirements
Occupational Exposure Risk Potential
Reasonably Anticipated
Not Anticipated
Blood borne pathogens
X
Chemical
X
Airborne communicable diseases
X
Extreme temperatures
X
Radiation
X
Uneven surfaces or elevations
X
Extreme noise levels
X
Dust/particulate matter
X
Other (exposure risks):
Usual workday hours :
8
X
10
12
Other work hours
GEI is an AA/equal opportunity employer, including disabled and veterans.

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