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Virtual Water Modeling Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Associate Water Resources Engineer

Olathe, KS ยท Hybrid

$76.50K - $104.60K/yr

Support hydrologic and hydraulic planning, modeling, and design of stormwater and wet weather ... Proficiency with working and collaborating in virtual environments (MS Teams, WebEx, Zoom)

Associate Water Resources Engineer

Tulsa, OK ยท Hybrid

$69.30K - $94.70K/yr

Support hydrologic and hydraulic planning, modeling, and design of stormwater and wet weather ... Proficiency with working and collaborating in virtual environments (MS Teams, WebEx, Zoom)

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Virtual Water Modeling information

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$11

$24

$33

How much do virtual water modeling jobs pay per hour?

As of May 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for virtual water modeling in the United States is $24.40, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.43 and $27.40 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Virtual Water Modeler, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Virtual Water Modeler, you need a strong background in hydrology, environmental science, and quantitative analysis, typically supported by a relevant degree such as civil engineering or environmental engineering. Proficiency with modeling software like SWAT, MODFLOW, or HEC-RAS, along with GIS tools and possibly programming languages like Python or R, is essential. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills are valuable soft skills for interpreting data and conveying findings to stakeholders. These skills enable accurate water resource simulations, inform sustainable management strategies, and support effective decision-making in complex water systems.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in virtual water modeling, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in virtual water modeling often encounter challenges related to data quality, integrating diverse datasets, and ensuring model accuracy. These issues can be addressed by collaborating closely with hydrologists, GIS specialists, and data managers to validate input data and regularly calibrate models. Staying current with the latest modeling software and industry best practices can also help overcome technical hurdles. Additionally, clear communication with stakeholders is essential to ensure that model outputs align with project goals.

What is virtual water modeling?

Virtual water modeling is the process of using computer-based models to simulate the movement, distribution, and quality of water resources in virtual environments. These models help researchers and policymakers understand complex water systems, predict outcomes under various scenarios, and make informed decisions about water management. Virtual water modeling can be applied to issues like drought prediction, flood management, and optimizing water usage in agriculture and industry. The insights gained from these models are crucial for addressing water scarcity and ensuring sustainable use of water resources.

What is the difference between Virtual Water Modeling vs Water Resources Engineer?

AspectVirtual Water ModelingWater Resources Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or higher in environmental, civil engineering, or related fields; certifications varyBachelor's or higher in civil, environmental engineering; often professional licensure
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, consulting firms, government agencies; focus on data analysis and simulationField sites, offices, government agencies; focus on planning, design, and management
Industry UsageEnvironmental modeling, water conservation, policy analysisWater supply, flood control, infrastructure projects

Virtual Water Modeling involves simulating water use and distribution through computer models, focusing on data analysis and environmental impact. Water Resources Engineers design and manage water systems, infrastructure, and policies. While both roles work within the water industry, Virtual Water Modeling emphasizes modeling and analysis, whereas Water Resources Engineering centers on practical system design and implementation.

More about Virtual Water Modeling jobs
What cities are hiring for Virtual Water Modeling jobs? Cities with the most Virtual Water Modeling job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Water Modeling jobs? The most popular types of Water Modeling jobs are:
What states have the most Virtual Water Modeling jobs? States with the most job openings for Virtual Water Modeling jobs include:
Infographic showing various Virtual Water Modeling job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 77% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 20% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,749 per year, or $24.4 per hour.

SENIOR ENGINEER WATER RESOURCES

Department of Water Resources

Sacramento, CA โ€ข On-site

$11.44K - $14.32K/mo

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago


Job description

State Water Project Aerial Tour 2021 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7A1jHyfqp8E
Duties: The SWP Water Operations Planning Section has an opening for a highly motivated, engaging, forward-thinking, and team-oriented leader to take on a challenging and rewarding position to manage the Near-Term Modeling Unit. The candidate in this role will lead a highly skilled professional team responsible for the critical role of analyzing and monitoring hydrologic, hydraulic, and water quality conditions in the Oroville Complex and Sacramento-San Joaquin River Delta to support effective State Water Project (SWP) and Central Valley Project (CVP) operations. This person will oversee technical evaluations of Delta tidal influences, inflows, diversions, and operational scenarios to ensure adherence to state and federal regulatory requirements, including water rights and Endangered Species Act mandates. Additionally, this person will represent SWP interests in meetings developing alternative solutions, preparing presentations, and coordinating issue resolution with partner agencies and stakeholders. If you are qualified, please consider leading this exciting and dynamic unit needing to analyze and address operational challenges to convey SWP water.
You will find additional information about the job in the Duty Statement .
Minimum Requirements You will find the Minimum Requirements in the Class Specification.
  • SENIOR ENGINEER WATER RESOURCES
Additional Documents
  • Job Application Package Checklist
  • Duty Statement

Position Details Job Code #:
JC-516484
Position #(s):
842-063-3261-500
Working Title:
SENIOR ENGINEER WATER RESOURCES
Classification:
SENIOR ENGINEER WATER RESOURCES $11,437.00 - $14,315.00 A
New to State candidates will be hired into the minimum salary of the classification or minimum of alternate range when applicable.
# of Positions:
1
Work Location:
Sacramento County
Telework:
Hybrid
Job Type:
Permanent, Full Time
Department Information
Division of Operations and Maintenance, Assistant Division Manager Water Management, Water Operations Branch, Water Operations Planning Section, Near-Term Modeling Unit, Sacramento
Department of Water Resources (DWR) was established in 1956 by the California State Legislature. We manage California's water resources, systems, and infrastructure, including the State Water Project, in a responsible sustainable way.
At DWR, we are embedding climate change response into every project we undertake. We have set standards to help evaluate how each project incorporates climate resilience principles and ensure consistency across the Department. Our mission is to sustainably manage the water resources of California, in cooperation with other agencies, to benefit the state's people and protect, restore, and enhance the natural and human environments.
DWR also strives to create a trusting and welcoming workplace where employees embrace diverse viewpoints and treat each other with civility and respect. An important component of DWR's equal employment opportunity program centers around justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion.
Department Website: https://water.ca.gov/
Free virtual career consultation services including one-on-one DWR career consultations, application/resume review, tips for applying, and mock interviews, provided by DWR's Recruitment and Workforce Planning section can now be scheduled via https://water.ca.gov/About/Careers.
Special Requirements
Employee is required to successfully complete all safety training related to the functions of the job.
All employees are responsible for contributing to an inclusive, safe, and secure work environment that values diverse cultures, perspectives, and experiences, and is free from discrimination.
The Department of Water Resources is committed to its mission and employees, and we are grounded in our commitment to public safety. Regular, consistent, and predictable attendance is essential to the successful performance in this position.
Application Instructions
Completed applications and all required documents must be received or postmarked by the Final Filing Date in order to be considered. Dates printed on Mobile Bar Codes, such as the Quick Response (QR) Codes available at the USPS, are not considered Postmark dates for the purpose of determining timely filing of an application.
Final Filing Date: 6/19/2026
Who May Apply
Individuals who are currently in the classification, eligible for lateral transfer, eligible for reinstatement, have list or LEAP eligibility, are in the process of obtaining list eligibility, or have SROA and/or Surplus eligibility (please attach your letter, if available). SROA and Surplus candidates are given priority; therefore, individuals with other eligibility may be considered in the event no SROA or Surplus candidates apply.
Applications will be screened and only the most qualified applicants will be selected to move forward in the selection process. Applicants must meet the Minimum Qualifications stated in the Classification Specification(s).
How To Apply
Complete Application Packages (including your Examination/Employment Application (STD 678) and applicable or required documents) must be submitted to apply for this Job Posting. Application Packages may be submitted electronically through your CalCareer Account at www.CalCareers.ca.gov. When submitting your application in hard copy, a completed copy of the Application Package listing must be included. If you choose to not apply electronically, a hard copy application package may be submitted through an alternative method listed below:
Address for Mailing Application Packages
You may submit your application and any applicable or required documents to:
Department of Water Resources
Mailing Address
Attn: Division of Human Resources
P.O. Box 1079
Sacramento , CA 95812
Address for Drop-Off Application Packages
You may drop off your application and any applicable or required documents at:
Department of Water Resources
Submit in Person
Certification Desk
715 P Street, 7th floor
Sacramento , CA 95814
08:00 AM - 04:30 PM
Required Application Package Documents
The following items are required to be submitted with your application. Applicants who do not submit the required items timely may not be considered for this job:
  • Current version of the State Examination/Employment Application STD Form 678 (when not applying electronically), or the Electronic State Employment Application through your Applicant Account at www.CalCareers.ca.gov. All Experience and Education relating to the Minimum Qualifications listed on the Classification Specification should be included to demonstrate how you meet the Minimum Qualifications for the position.
  • Resume is required and must be included.
  • Other - Cover Letter
  • Statement of Qualifications - See Special Instructions for additional details.
Applicants requiring reasonable accommodations for the hiring interview process must request the necessary accommodations if scheduled for a hiring interview. The request should be made at the time of contact to schedule the interview. Questions regarding reasonable accommodations may be directed to the EEO contact listed on this job posting.
Desirable Qualifications In addition to evaluating each candidate's relative ability, as demonstrated by quality and breadth of experience, the following factors will provide the basis for competitively evaluating each candidate:
It is desirable for the incumbent to possess knowledge and experience in Delta hydrology and water quality; operations modeling and impact analysis; Bay-Delta regulatory compliance requirements; reservoir operations planning; oversight of Delta operational infrastructure activities; representing agency interests in meetings; providing operational briefings and expert consultation; communicating technical and regulatory information; and prioritizing, assigning, and managing staff workload, as well as training and developing technical staff.
Benefits
Click here to read about the outstanding benefits offered to eligible employees.
Personal Leave Program 2025: Effective July 1, 2025, state employees are subject to temporary wage reductions in exchange for Personal Leave Program (PLP) accruals. The specific rate and hours earned were negotiated and agreed upon by each bargaining unit. The actual monetary impact of these temporary reductions can vary based on your bargaining unit and/or federal and state tax withholdings. For additional information please visit Human Resources Manual - CalHR
We are conveniently located in the Arden-Arcade area with ample free parking.
Contact Information
The Hiring Unit Contact is available to answer questions regarding the position or application process.
Hiring Unit Contact:
Paige Howard
(916) 574-6078
paige.howard@water.ca.gov
Please direct requests for Reasonable Accommodations to the interview scheduler at the time the interview is being scheduled. You may direct any additional questions regarding Reasonable Accommodations or Equal Employment Opportunity for this position(s) to the Department's EEO Office.
EEO Contact:
Office of Civil Rights
(916) 653-6952
civilrights@water.ca.gov
California Relay Service: 1-800-735-2929 (TTY), 1-800-735-2922 (Voice) TTY is a Telecommunications Device for the Deaf, and is reachable only from phones equipped with a TTY Device.
Special Instructions
To be considered, submit a completed State application (STD. 678), resume, cover letter, and Statement of Qualifications. Please reference SAP Position # 50012813 and Job Control- 516484 in the "examination(s) or job title(s) for which you are applying" section of your application.
The hiring unit will receive only the documents specified in the Required Application Package Documents section.
Cover Letter
The Cover Letter should include a statement as to why you are interested in this position and highlight skills that are most applicable to the Duty Statement.
Statement of Qualifications
This is a (1-page maximum) separate typed document entitled Statement of Qualifications in Arial 12-point font that addresses the candidate's knowledge, skills, abilities, and experience as it relates to the job description.
The following basis of eligibility will be considered: List eligibility, transfer, LEAP, reinstatement, and SROA/Surplus.
Note: Applicants who do not follow these instructions may be disqualified from the selection process. Resumes, cover letters, and/or other attachments will not be accepted in lieu of a completed application.
Click here to complete DWR's Recruitment Survey . This survey is for research purpose only and will not affect the application status.
Examination/Assessment
For more information about the State hiring process, click here . To learn more about how to get a State job, click here .
List eligibility can be established by taking and passing the examination/assessment.
Click the examination(s)/assessment(s) information link:
SENIOR ENGINEER WATER RESOURCES
Equal Opportunity Employer
The State of California is an equal opportunity employer to all, regardless of age, ancestry, color, disability (mental and physical), exercising the right to family care and medical leave, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, marital status, medical condition, military or veteran status, national origin, political affiliation, race, religious creed, sex (includes pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding and related medical conditions), and sexual orientation.
It is an objective of the State of California to achieve a drug-free work place. Any applicant for state employment will be expected to behave in accordance with this objective because the use of illegal drugs is inconsistent with the law of the State, the rules governing Civil Service, and the special trust placed in public servants.