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Surface Water Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

Wood Plc

Senior Water Resources Engineer

Portland, OR · On-site

Our projects are related to civil, grading, surface and stormwater, and infrastructure. Recent ... water quality facilities and civil grading. You will be expected to manage projects, supervise ...

NW Natural

Operator (All Levels)

Newberg, OR · On-site

This position requires a 2-hour on-call response time to the surface water treatment plant facilities in the primary territory. Position Summary: The Operator monitors and manages water treatment ...

NW Natural

Operator (All Levels)

Newberg, OR · On-site

This position requires a 2-hour on-call response time to the surface water treatment plant facilities in the primary territory. Position Summary: The Operator monitors and manages water treatment ...

NW Natural

Operator (All Levels)

Newberg, OR

This position requires a 2-hour on-call response time to the surface water treatment plant facilities in the primary territory. Position Summary: The Operator monitors and manages water treatment ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsSurface Water JobsSurface Water Jobs in Oregon

Surface Water information

See Oregon salary details

$23.4K

$61.3K

$116.7K

How much do surface water jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for surface water in Oregon is $61,252.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41,392.00 and $76,301.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a surface water professional?

Surface water professionals are experts who study, manage, and protect natural water bodies found on the Earth's surface, such as rivers, lakes, and streams. Their work involves monitoring water quality, assessing flood risks, designing water management systems, and ensuring compliance with environmental regulations. They often collaborate with government agencies, environmental organizations, and the public to develop sustainable water use and protection strategies. These professionals play a vital role in maintaining clean water resources and mitigating the impacts of pollution and climate change.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a surface water engineer?

To thrive as a Surface Water Engineer, you need a solid background in civil or environmental engineering, hydrology, and water resource management, usually supported by a relevant degree and professional licensure (such as a PE). Proficiency with modeling software like HEC-RAS, GIS systems, and CAD tools, as well as knowledge of regulatory requirements, is essential. Strong analytical thinking, effective communication, and project management abilities are critical soft skills for success. These competencies ensure accurate assessment, design, and implementation of water management solutions that protect communities and comply with environmental regulations.

What are common challenges faced by professionals working in surface water management roles?

Professionals in surface water management often encounter challenges such as balancing regulatory compliance with project timelines, addressing the impacts of urban development on water quality and flood risk, and coordinating with multiple stakeholders including government agencies, developers, and the public. These roles require adaptability, as priorities can shift due to weather events or changing environmental regulations. Additionally, surface water specialists frequently collaborate with interdisciplinary teams, making strong communication and project management skills essential for success.

What is the difference between Surface Water vs Hydrologist?

AspectSurface WaterHydrologist
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles require a bachelor's degree in environmental science or related fieldBachelor's degree in hydrology, geology, or environmental science; advanced roles may require a master's or PhD
Work EnvironmentField sites, water bodies, laboratories, government agenciesResearch labs, field sites, government agencies, consulting firms
Industry UsageEnvironmental management, water resource planning, conservation projectsWater resource assessment, flood prediction, environmental impact studies

Surface Water professionals focus on the physical aspects of water bodies like lakes, rivers, and streams, often working in the field to monitor and manage water quality. Hydrologists study the distribution, movement, and properties of water in the environment, often conducting research and data analysis. While both roles involve water, Surface Water roles are more practical and field-oriented, whereas Hydrologists are more research and analysis-driven.

What are popular job titles related to Surface Water jobs in Oregon?

For Surface Water jobs in Oregon, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Surface Water jobs in Oregon look for?

The top searched job categories for Surface Water jobs in Oregon are:

Surface Water jobs near you
Infographic showing various Surface Water job openings in Oregon as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,252 per year, or $29.4 per hour.

Certified Water Rights Examiner (CWRE)

AKS Engineering & Forestry, LLC

Tualatin, OR

Full-time

Re-posted 18 days ago

Job description

AKS Engineering & Forestry is seeking a Certified Water Rights Examiner (CWRE) to support water rights and water resources services for land development and infrastructure projects. This position plays a key role in researching, analyzing, and supporting water right permitting, transfers, compliance, and due diligence activities for public and private clients.

What You'll Do
  • Conduct detailed research and evaluation of surface water and groundwater rights using state records, maps, databases, and historical documentation.
  • Prepare water rights summaries, ownership evaluations, use confirmations, and legal descriptions.
  • Analyze water right validity, priority dates, beneficial use, points of diversion, places of use, and associated conditions.
  • Identify potential risks, constraints, and opportunities related to water rights
  • Prepare applications for surface water, ground water, and storage rights
  • Prepare claims of beneficial use
  • Prepare transfer applications
  • Support multidisciplinary project teams by integrating water rights considerations into project planning, land use entitlements, and infrastructure design.
  • Mentor junior staff and provide technical leadership to project teams.
  • Support business development through client relationships and proposals (as your experience allows).
Who You Are
  • Obtained certification as a Certified Water Rights Examiner (CWRE)
  • 5+ years of professional experience working with water rights, water resources, or regulatory permitting.
  • Strong knowledge of surface water and groundwater rights in the Pacific Northwest.
  • Experience working with state water rights databases, records, and mapping tools.
  • Excellent communicator and collaborator who enjoys working with multidisciplinary teams.
  • Self-motivated with strong organizational and time-management skills.
  • Committed to mentoring others and developing talent from within.
  • You have a "Do what needs to be done" mindset, taking ownership beyond assigned tasks and stepping in wherever needed to keep projects, teams, and customers supported and running smoothly.
Nice To Have
  • Experience supporting land development or infrastructure projects.
  • Familiarity with Oregon, Washington and/or Idaho water rights regulations and agency processes.
  • Experience preparing exhibits, GIS maps, or spatial analysis related to water rights.
  • Experience working in a consulting environment with multiple concurrent projects.

Apply