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Surface Water Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Surface Water Lead-Baltimore

Baltimore, MD

$78K - $107K/yr

Proficient understanding of and experience with surface water analysis, hydrologic methodologies/models (TR-55, HEC-HMS, etc.), hydraulic models (HEC-RAS, HEC-RAS-2D, HEC-GeoRAS, SRH-2D, etc.), and ...

Overview Our Charlotte, North Carolina (NC) office is looking for a Civil Operator or Designer with 8+ years of experience to join our Surface Water team! Responsibilities * Implement and manage ...

Surface Water Lead-Baltimore

Baltimore, MD · On-site

$78K - $107K/yr

Proficient understanding of and experience with surface water analysis, hydrologic methodologies/models (TR-55, HEC-HMS, etc.), hydraulic models (HEC-RAS, HEC-RAS-2D, HEC-GeoRAS, SRH-2D, etc.), and ...

Overview Our Charlotte, North Carolina (NC) office is looking for a Civil Operator or Designer with 8+ years of experience to join our Surface Water team! Responsibilities * Implement and manage ...

Overview Our Charlotte, North Carolina (NC) office is looking for a Civil Operator or Designer with 8+ years of experience to join our Surface Water team! Responsibilities * Implement and manage ...

Senior Surface Water Engineer-Las Vegas

Las Vegas, NV · On-site

$99K - $137K/yr

The Senior Surface Water Engineer will support junior engineers in developing designs for stormwater master planning, stormwater management facilities, culverts, hydrology, open channel and bridge ...

Our Charlotte, North Carolina (NC) office is looking for a Civil Operator or Designer with 8+ years of experience to join our Surface Water team! * Implement and manage drafting and plan preparation ...

The Senior Surface Water Engineer will support junior engineers in developing designs for stormwater master planning, stormwater management facilities, culverts, hydrology, open channel and bridge ...

Showing results 41-60

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:

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.

Surface Water Lead-Baltimore

WSP

Baltimore, MD

$78K - $107K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 24 days ago


WSP rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 69 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

17th of 72 rated business consultants


Job description

This Opportunity

Provides high level management and guidance for a water resources engineering team, helping to develop work processes, due diligence, task and project management and delivery for stormwater/drainage/MS4/TMDL projects.  Responsibilities include the management, design and development of processes, infrastructure, and operating strategies related to water quality, stormwater facilities, MS4/TMDL program support, culverts, hydrology, open channel hydraulics, bridge hydraulics, floodplain modeling/mapping, and hydrologic/hydraulic modeling.   Ensures that responsibilities are delivered and adhered to with a level of quality that meets or exceeds acceptable industry standards.

Your Impact

  • Demonstrates strong commitment to keeping up to date in technical knowledge of current practice and becoming proficient in applying emerging practices.
  • Ability to lead and manage others in producing high quality technical and professional deliverables on projects and proposals.
  • Applies substantial broad knowledge and judgment for a particular function.
  • Serves as an expert in the field, developing and conducting training sessions/courses on new concepts, approaches, and/or materials to enhance the capabilities of staff.
  • Routinely interacts with clients, officials, contractors, and others, using developed negotiation skills to resolve critical issues.
  • Ensures the quality of technical work produced with projects and practices.
  • Helps lead marketing and business development efforts.
  • Promotes teamwork, maintaining positive morale, and instilling a creative culture.
  • Leads implementation of Quality Plan.
  • May be required to sign and seal contract documents.
  • Oversee and monitor cross-functional teams to execute projects including, budgets, tracking hours and expenses, task completion, permit applications, compliance documentation, and regulatory and technical analysis memos.
  • Coordinate, review and approve infrastructure design plans, ensuring quality design and work is compliant with all applicable regulations.
  • Prepare and/or oversee comprehensive technical reports and presentations for a variety of water resource designs and studies. 
  • Understand design principles and current regulatory approaches in Maryland for a variety of stormwater facilities, such as bioretentions, green roofs, permeable pavements, stormwater ponds, manufactured treatment devices, and underground detention facilities.
  • Interact with regulatory agencies, subcontractors, and clients in a confident and professional manner.
  • Collaborate with professionals from a variety of disciplines to provide future ready solutions for clients.
  • Remain current in latest water resources engineering techniques.
  • Exercise responsible and ethical decision-making regarding company funds, resources and conduct, and adhere to WSP's Code of Conduct and related policies and procedures.
  • Perform additional responsibilities as required by business needs.

Who You Are

Required Qualifications

  • Bachelor's or Master's Degree in Civil or Environmental Engineering, with a focus in Water Resources or closely related discipline.
  • 15+ years of relevant post education experience in water resources engineering.
  • Professional Engineer (PE) in Maryland.
  • Proficient knowledge of water resource engineering principles, practices, process, and the application to environmental permitting and project work-related issues. 
  • Well-defined knowledge with Stormwater Management, Drainage, NPDES MS4/TMDL Programs, Erosion and Sediment Control, Hydrology & Hydraulics Design, Watershed Studies, Floodplain Delineation, etc.
  • Proficient ability to coordinate with agency regulators and understand requirements.
  • Well-defined specific knowledge of relevant environmental laws, regulations, compliance practices, and record-keeping requirements.
  • Well-developed ability to make technical computations and calculations involving the application of engineering principles, understanding plans and specifications and making factual comparisons to the appropriate regulations. 
  • Highly effective interpersonal and communication skills when interacting with others, expressing ideas effectively and professionally to an engineering and non-engineering audience.
  • Demonstrated high-level of self-leadership with attention to detail, multi-tasking, and prioritization of responsibilities in a dynamic work environment.
  • Works independently with minimal oversight and provides mentoring, guidance and leadership to junior team or project members, with strict adherence to QA/QC.
  • Highly proficient with technical writing, office automation, software, technology, math principles, predictive models, spreadsheets, and tools.
  • Adept at coordinating technical matters with public and private groups.
  • Proficient understanding of and experience with surface water analysis, hydrologic methodologies/models (TR-55, HEC-HMS, etc.), hydraulic models (HEC-RAS, HEC-RAS-2D, HEC-GeoRAS, SRH-2D, etc.), and with ESRI ArcGIS software.
  • Working knowledge of FEMA flood studies, floodplain analysis and hazards analysis.
  • Well-developed critical thinking and problem-solving skills required to apply technical knowledge to reach conclusions from testing results, data collation, statistical analysis and arriving at the most effective, economical, and logical solution.
  • Demonstrated effectiveness at coordinating and assertively directing subcontractors and others to consistently complete tasks safely and efficiently.
  • Proven track record of upholding workplace safety and ability to abide by WSP's health, safety and drug/alcohol and harassment policies.
  • Ability to work schedules conducive to project-specific requirements that may extend beyond the typical workweek.
  • Occasional travel may be required depending on project-specific requirements.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Master's Degree in Engineering.
  • Professional Engineer (PE) in Virginia, Washington D.C or adjacent states with capability of achieving licensure in other states.
  • A member of and/or actively participate in local professional practice organizations including American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE), American Society of Highway Engineers (ASHE) or other relevant organizations.

Compensation:

Expected Salary (all locations): $139,800- $249,150

WSP USA is providing the compensation range that the company in good faith believes it might pay and offer for this position, based on the successful applicant's education, experience, knowledge, skills, abilities in addition to internal equity and specific geographic location. WSP USA reserves the right to ultimately pay more or less than the posted range and offer additional benefits and other compensation, depending on circumstances not related to an applicant's sex or other status protected by local, state, and/or federal law.

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About WSP

WSP USA is the U.S. operating company of WSP, one of the world's leading engineering and professional services firms. Dedicated to serving local communities, we are engineers, planners, technical experts, strategic advisors and construction management professionals. WSP USA designs lasting solutions in the buildings, transportation, energy, water and environment markets. With more than 15,000 employees in over 300 offices across the U.S., we partner with our clients to help communities prosper.

www.wsp.com

WSP provides a flexible and agile workplace model while meeting client needs. Employees are also afforded a comprehensive suite of benefits including medical, dental, vision, disability, life, and retirement savings focused on providing health and financial stability throughout the employee's career.

At WSP, we want to give our employees the challenges they seek to grow their careers and knowledge base. Your daily contributions to your team will be essential in meeting client objectives, goals and challenges. Are you ready to get started?

WSP USA (and all of its U.S. companies) is an Equal Opportunity Employer Race/Age/Color/Religion/Sex/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity/National Origin/Disability or Protected Veteran Status.

The selected candidate must be authorized to work in the United States.

NOTICE TO THIRD PARTY AGENCIES:

WSP does not accept unsolicited resumes from recruiters, employment agencies, or other staffing services. Unsolicited resumes include any resume or hiring document sent to WSP in the absence of a signed Service Agreement where WSP has expressly requested recruitment/staffing services specific to the position at hand.  Any unsolicited resumes, including those submitted to hiring managers or other business leaders, will become the property of WSP and WSP will have the right to hire that candidate without reservation - no fee or other compensation will be owed or paid to the recruiter, employment agency, or other staffing service. 


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