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Surface Water Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Kimley-Horn

Surface Water Engineer

Orlando, FL · On-site

Overview Kimley-Horn's Orlando, Florida (FL) office is seeking a Civil Engineer with 4+ years of experience to join their Surface Water team! This is not a remote position. Responsibilities * Support ...

ISG

Civil Engineer - Surface Water

Bloomington, MN · On-site

$75K - $150K/yr

As a Civil Engineer supporting the Surface Water group, you hold the key to transforming this vision into reality. Your expertise in designing innovative stormwater systems not only protects the ...

Kimley-Horn

Surface Water Engineer

Melbourne, FL · On-site

Overview Kimley-Horn's Melbourne, Florida (FL) office is seeking a Civil Engineer with 4+ years of experience to join their Surface Water team! This is not a remote position. Responsibilities

New

Kimley-Horn

Surface Water Engineer

Orlando, FL

Overview Kimley-Horn's Orlando, Florida (FL) office is seeking a Civil Engineer with 4+ years of experience to join their Surface Water team! This is not a remote position. Responsibilities * Support ...

Kimley-Horn

Surface Water Engineer

Melbourne, FL · On-site

Overview Kimley-Horn's Melbourne, Florida (FL) office is seeking a Civil Engineer with 4+ years of experience to join their Surface Water team! This is not a remote position. Responsibilities

New

Kimley-Horn

Surface Water Engineer

Orlando, FL · On-site

Overview Kimley-Horn's Orlando, Florida (FL) office is seeking a Civil Engineer with 4+ years of experience to join their Surface Water team! This is not a remote position. Responsibilities * Support ...

Kimley-Horn

Surface Water Engineer

Melbourne, FL

Overview Kimley-Horn's Melbourne, Florida (FL) office is seeking a Civil Engineer with 4+ years of experience to join their Surface Water team! This is not a remote position. Responsibilities

New

WSP

Lead Surface Water Engineer

Denver, CO

$110K - $188K/yr

This Opportunity WSP is seeking a Senior Surface Water Engineer to join our Denver (South Colorado Boulevard) office. This role is intended for an engineer with strong local drainage and stormwater ...

WSP

Lead Surface Water Engineer

Denver, CO · On-site

$110K - $188K/yr

This Opportunity WSP is seeking a Senior Surface Water Engineer to join our Denver (South Colorado Boulevard) office. This role is intended for an engineer with strong local drainage and stormwater ...

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Surface Water information

See salary details

$23.5K

$61.4K

$117K

How much do surface water jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for surface water in the United States is $61,411.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41,500.00 and $76,500.00 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.

More about Surface Water jobs

What cities are hiring for Surface Water jobs?

Cities with the most Surface Water job openings:

What states have the most Surface Water jobs?

States with the most job openings for Surface Water jobs include:

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

The top searched job categories for Surface Water jobs are:

Surface Water jobs near you
Infographic showing various Surface Water job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,411 per year, or $29.5 per hour.

Civil Engineer - Surface Water

ISG (Information Services Group)

Sioux Falls, SD • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 19 days ago

Job description

Imagine a world where every drop of rain is harnessed to nourish the land, prevent floods, and sustain communities. As a Civil Engineer supporting the Surface Water group, you hold the key to transforming this vision into reality. Your expertise in designing innovative stormwater systems not only protects the environment but also ensures the safety and prosperity of rural areas. ISG is excited to expand our team to join our Water Business Unit, specializing in Rural Surface Water. You will join a dynamic team as an ISG Employee Owner working collaboratively with your fellow employee owners to develop creative solutions.


You will collaborate with ISG internal resources for design and project coordination, project execution, specification writers, visualization specialists, and construction administrators. Employee owners of all levels are involved in every aspect of design from conceptual design through construction. If this sounds exciting to you, keep reading!

Here are a few recent projects:
  • Lovin Farm Bioreactor, Pocahontas County, IA
  • Blue Earth County Ditch No. 57, Mapleton, MN
View additional ISG projects: Portfolio
ISG Surface Water Blog
Stormwater Management Planning:
  • Develop and implement stormwater management plans, including stormwater management reports as applicable on project types to control runoff and prevent flooding
  • Design and oversee the construction of stormwater infrastructure such as retention basins, swales, and drainage systems
  • Proficiency in various modeling software including but not limited to, XPSWMM, PCSWMM, Infoworks ICM, HydroCAD, Hec-RAS, Hec-HMS, Hydraulic Toolbox and other software systems
  • Assist with submittal reviews, requests for information, correspondence, change requests, and change orders during the Construction phase of projects
  • Coordinate and assist with environmental studies, permitting, alternative analysis, and other technical deliverables
Hydrologic and Hydraulic Analysis:
  • Conduct hydrologic and hydraulic analyses to predict stormwater behavior and design effective control measures
  • Use modeling software to simulate stormwater flow and assess the impact of proposed developments
Environmental Compliance:
  • Ensure compliance with local, state, and federal regulations related to water quality and stormwater management
  • Prepare and submit necessary permits and documentation
Field Inspections and Monitoring:
  • Perform on-site inspections to monitor the effectiveness of stormwater management systems
  • Assist with the performance and adherence to plans and specifications during the construction process through our Construction Administrators
  • Conduct water quality sampling and analysis to ensure compliance with environmental standards
  • Provide QA/QC for drawings, documents, details, schedules or specifications using programs such as AutoCAD, Civil3D and ESRI ArcGIS that are completed by staff
Community Engagement:
  • Work with local communities, landowners, and stakeholders to address stormwater management issues
  • Provide technical assistance and education on best practices for stormwater management
Additional Duties:
  • Lead and/or support the design of the rehabilitation or replacement of stormwater and drainage infrastructure
  • Support and mentor staff through design consultation and QA/QC measures
  • Provide expertise on construction sites as needed
  • Subscribe to our goals and objectives, operating with a collaborative mentality
  • Meet with Clients and Contractors at their place of business or job site
  • Provide oversight and project leadership to drive the successful completion of surface water projects
  • Prepare and maintain project workplan, which includes schedules, budget, notes, etc. throughout the project lifespan
  • Assist in creating the project scope of services, as needed
We've listed a compensation range that reflects our expectations for this role, including both direct and indirect components.  We understand that your experience and value may fall outside of this range. If you feel you're a strong fit but your compensation needs differ, we're open to a conversation-let's talk.
  • Bachelor's degree in civil/environmental engineering or bioproducts and bio-systems engineering
  • Professional Engineer (PE) licensure, required
  • Experience in managing projects within the surface water industry, such as stormwater management master plans, flood control/analysis, FEMA CLOMR/LOMR, streambank stabilization or restoration, and rural drainage
  • 5-10 years of experience in Surface Water industry
  • Ability to travel to various job sites and ISG office locations
  • Strong communication, organization, analytical and interpersonal skills
  • Self-directed, organized and can work independently with minimal supervision
  • Medical, dental, and vision
  • Paid time off, pro-rated amount available on your start date
  • Paid holidays and paid volunteer time
  • Paid parental leave
  • Bi-annual profit sharing
  • Employee Ownership Stock Plan (ESOP)
  • 401K retirement plan
  • Life insurance
  • HSA and FSA options
  • Bereavement leave
  • Supplemental voluntary benefits
  • Short term and long-term disability
  • Parking reimbursement, varies on office location
  • Cell phone plan reimbursement
  • Mileage reimbursement for ISG-approved travel

Apply