ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Water By Design Jobs (NOW HIRING)

AECOM

Senior Water Main Design Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

We're one global team driven by our common purpose to deliver a better world. Join us. AECOM is seeking a Senior Water Main Design Engineer to support the Chicago Department of Water's multi-billion ...

AECOM

Senior Water Main Design Engineer

Chicago, IL

We're one global team driven by our common purpose to deliver a better world. Join us. AECOM is seeking a Senior Water Main Design Engineer to support the Chicago Department of Water's multi-billion ...

AECOM

Senior Water Main Design Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

We're one global team driven by our common purpose to deliver a better world. Join us. AECOM is seeking a Senior Water Main Design Engineer to support the Chicago Department of Water's multi-billion ...

AECOM

Water Design-Build Project Manager

Tampa, FL · On-site

We're one global team driven by our common purpose to deliver a better world. Join us. AECOM's Water Division is actively seeking a motivated and collaborative Water Design-Build Project Manager to ...

AECOM

Water Design-Build Project Manager

Tampa, FL · On-site

We're one global team driven by our common purpose to deliver a better world. Join us. AECOM's Water Division is actively seeking a motivated and collaborative Water Design-Build Project Manager to ...

AECOM

Water Design-Build Project Manager

Orlando, FL · On-site

We're one global team driven by our common purpose to deliver a better world. Join us. AECOM's Water Division is actively seeking a motivated and collaborative Water Design-Build Project Manager to ...

AECOM

Water Design-Build Project Manager

Atlanta, GA · On-site

We're one global team driven by our common purpose to deliver a better world. Join us. AECOM's Water Division is actively seeking a motivated and collaborative Water Design-Build Project Manager to ...

AECOM

Water Design-Build Project Manager

Tampa, FL · On-site

We're one global team driven by our common purpose to deliver a better world. Join us. AECOM's Water Division is actively seeking a motivated and collaborative Water Design-Build Project Manager to ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsWater By Design Jobs

Water By Design information

See salary details

$42K

$114.5K

$201.5K

How much do water by design jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for water by design in the United States is $114,491.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $83,500.00 and $144,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What jobs will no longer exist in 2030?

In the water industry, roles such as manual water meter readers and certain entry-level field technicians may decline due to automation and advanced sensor technology. Jobs requiring routine data collection or basic maintenance are increasingly replaced by smart systems, while specialized roles involving complex problem-solving and technical skills are expected to persist.

What is the difference between Water By Design vs Water Engineer?

AspectWater By DesignWater Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires certifications in water management, design, or related fieldsRequires engineering degrees and professional engineering licensure
Work EnvironmentDesign firms, consulting agencies, project sitesEngineering firms, construction sites, consulting agencies
Industry UsageUsed in project planning, water system design, and consultingInvolved in technical engineering, analysis, and system design

Water By Design focuses on planning and designing water systems, often in a consulting or project management role, while Water Engineers are involved in technical engineering, analysis, and implementation of water infrastructure. Both roles are essential in water projects but differ in scope and credentials.

What jobs pay $500,000 a year in the US?

In the water industry, high-paying roles such as senior engineers, project managers, or executive positions at large firms can reach or exceed $500,000 annually, especially with experience, advanced certifications, and leadership responsibilities. These roles often require specialized skills, extensive experience, and may involve managing large projects or teams in complex environments.

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

To thrive as a Water Resources Engineer, you need a solid background in civil or environmental engineering, hydrology, and water management, usually with a relevant engineering degree and professional licensure. Familiarity with modeling software like HEC-RAS, AutoCAD, and GIS, along with certifications such as Professional Engineer (PE), is often required. Strong problem-solving, project management, and communication skills help professionals effectively design and implement sustainable water systems. These competencies are crucial to ensuring safe, efficient, and environmentally responsible water resource solutions.

What are some typical collaboration points between a Water By Design specialist and other departments within an engineering or environmental consultancy?

A Water By Design specialist frequently collaborates with civil engineers, landscape architects, and environmental scientists to develop sustainable water management solutions. These collaborations often involve joint site assessments, integrated stormwater management planning, and coordinating the implementation of water-sensitive urban design (WSUD) features. Regular meetings and interdisciplinary workshops are common to ensure that water management strategies align with broader project goals and regulatory requirements. Effective communication and teamwork are essential for balancing technical, ecological, and community considerations throughout the project lifecycle.

What is 'Water By Design'?

'Water By Design' is an initiative or program focused on sustainable water management, particularly in urban environments. It provides resources, guidelines, and training for best practices in water-sensitive urban design (WSUD), helping planners, engineers, and developers to incorporate water management solutions into their projects. The aim is to improve water quality, reduce flooding, and enhance urban environments through innovative design and community collaboration. Water By Design often works with government agencies, industry professionals, and the community to promote the sustainable use and management of water resources.

What is the highest paid designer job?

In the field of water design, senior-level roles such as Water Resources or Civil Engineering Managers typically have the highest salaries, often exceeding $100,000 annually. These positions require extensive experience, advanced certifications, and leadership skills, and they oversee large projects and teams within water infrastructure development.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

In the water industry, roles such as experienced water treatment plant operators or specialized field technicians can sometimes earn around $4,000 weekly, especially with extensive experience and certifications. These positions often require technical skills, on-the-job training, and knowledge of water systems but may not require a college degree.
More about Water By Design jobs
What cities are hiring for Water By Design jobs? Cities with the most Water By Design job openings:
What states have the most Water By Design jobs? States with the most job openings for Water By Design jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Water By Design jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Water By Design jobs are:
Water By Design jobs near you
Infographic showing various Water By Design job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $114,491 per year, or $55 per hour.
Senior Water Main Design Engineer

Senior Water Main Design Engineer

AECOM

Chicago, IL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 7 days ago

AECOM rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 60 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

15th of 79 rated construction

Job description

Company Description
Work with Us. Change the World.
At AECOM, we're delivering a better world. Whether improving your commute, keeping the lights on, providing access to clean water, or transforming skylines, our work helps people and communities thrive. We are the world's trusted infrastructure consulting firm, partnering with clients to solve the world's most complex challenges and build legacies for future generations.
There has never been a better time to be at AECOM. With accelerating infrastructure investment worldwide, our services are in great demand. We invite you to bring your bold ideas and big dreams and become part of a global team of over 50,000 planners, designers, engineers, scientists, digital innovators, program and construction managers and other professionals delivering projects that create a positive and tangible impact around the world.
We're one global team driven by our common purpose to deliver a better world. Join us.
Job Description
AECOM is seeking a Senior Water Main Design Engineer to support the Chicago Department of Water's multi-billion Capital Improvement Program (CIP). This is a key position within the Water Main Design task of the program to support the Design Manager in developing and maintaining a prioritized water main replacement candidates and associated lead service line replacement (LSLR) list and delivering the required quantity of water main designs to meet annual CIP mileage goals. Also responsible for supporting the planning, design and coordination with DWM's Construction Management team on construction of water mains and lead services line replacements. This position assists the Design Manager with coordinating various subtask lanes including Planning, Survey, CAD, Records, and Water Quality . This role will include the mentoring & development of entry to mid-level water main design engineers.
The responsibilities of this position include, but are not limited to:
  • Oversee preparation of water main and lead service line replacement designs and signing design drawings.
  • Support special projects (e.g., LSLR designs/implementation, complex designs in the central business district and major arterial streets) and preparation of contract and bidding documents for various types of projects.
  • Support large diameter (>16") water main design efforts including detailed design plan preparation, project prioritization, and advisory services for DWM.
  • Support cost estimating and preparation of the Term Agreement Contracts for water main and LSLR construction.
  • Coordinate with construction teams and address issues or conflicts.
  • Support DWM with project prioritization through developing CIP candidates and provide subsequent project execution oversight.
  • Perform quality control of design documents - reviewing plans, signing drawings, reviewing cost estimates and construction submittals/RFIs.
  • Provide water main technical assistance and expertise to the other tasks within the program (e.g., Force Accounts) and DWM and their stakeholders (e.g., Construction Management, Operations, etc.).
  • Attend and lead coordination meetings with the DWM and their Construction Management group, including client facing interaction.
  • Coordinate design approval workflow through DWM, OUC, IDOT and other relevant step actors.
  • Mentor and develop entry to mid-level water main design engineers.

Qualifications
Minimum Requirements:
  • BA/BS + 6 years of related experience or demonstrated equivalency of experience and/or education
  • Professional Engineering license in Illinois or the ability to obtain one within first 6 months of employment.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in civil/environmental/water resources engineering or a related discipline and 6+ years of water main design experience or demonstrated equivalency of experience and/or education.
  • 6+ years of progressive water main design experience including managing teams and projects.
  • 2+ years of large diameter (>16") water main design experience.
  • Experience in working on municipal water utility projects.
  • Experience in water quality and LSLR regulations and implementation programs.
  • Knowledge and experience with all Illinois and City of Chicago regulations - namely IEPA, IDPH, Illinois Water/Sewer Standard Specifications, and City of Chicago Code Regulations
  • Proven interpersonal skills, including client interaction, public speaking, and persuasive ability; strong project financial management along with ability to lead diverse, multi-disciplined teams.

Additional Information
  • All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.
  • AECOM is not offering sponsorship for this position now or in the future.
  • Relocation not available for this position.

At AECOM, we are committed to maintaining a secure and trustworthy recruitment process and take any fraudulent hiring activity seriously. To support this commitment, all newly hired employees are required to attend an in-person Day 1 onboarding at an AECOM office location as a condition of employment.
About AECOM
AECOM is proud to offer comprehensive benefits to meet the diverse needs of our employees. Depending on your employment status, AECOM benefits may include medical, dental, vision, life, AD&D, disability benefits, paid time off, leaves of absences, voluntary benefits, perks, flexible work options, well-being resources, employee assistance program, business travel insurance, service recognition awards, retirement savings plan, and employee stock purchase plan.
AECOM is the global infrastructure leader, committed to delivering a better world. As a trusted professional services firm powered by deep technical abilities, we solve our clients' complex challenges in water, environment, energy, transportation and buildings. Our teams partner with public- and private-sector clients to create innovative, sustainable and resilient solutions throughout the project lifecycle - from advisory, planning, design and engineering to program and construction management. AECOM is a Fortune 500 firm that had revenue of $16.1 billion in fiscal year 2025. Learn more at aecom.com.
What makes AECOM a great place to work
You will be part of a global team that champions your growth and career ambitions. Work on groundbreaking projects - both in your local community and on a global scale - that are transforming our industry and shaping the future. With cutting-edge technology and a network of experts, you'll have the resources to make a real impact. Our award-winning training and development programs are designed to expand your technical expertise and leadership skills, helping you build the career you've always envisioned. Here, you'll find a welcoming workplace built on respect, collaboration and community-where you have the freedom to grow in a world of opportunity.
As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we believe in your potential and are here to help you achieve it. All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

What AECOM employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply