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Water Engineer Jobs in Arkansas (NOW HIRING)

HDR Engineering is looking for a Water/Wastewater Engineer to join our growing Arkansas team. The primary duties of the Water/Wastewater Engineer include but are not limited to planning, directing ...

HDR Engineering is looking for a Water/Wastewater Engineer to join our growing Arkansas team. The primary duties of the Water/Wastewater Engineer include but are not limited to planning, directing ...

Senior Engineer - Water/Wastewater

Fayetteville, AR ยท On-site

$100K - $137K/yr

As a Senior Engineer on the Water/Wastewater team, you'll provide high-level technical support and lead quality assurance/quality control (QA/QC) activities that drive excellence in water and ...

Process Engineer - Water Treatment Lead

Fayetteville, AR ยท On-site

$99K - $128K/yr

Garver's Fayetteville Water Design Center is seeking a Process Engineer with Water Treatment Plant experience in Fayetteville, Arkansas. The Process Engineer will be responsible for leading projects ...

Licensed Professional Engineer in the state of Arkansas or ability to gain reciprocity within 6 months of hire * 10 or more years' similar experience in the water/wastewater utilities market ...

Water Facilities Team Leader

North Little Rock, AR ยท On-site

$17 - $21.50/hr

Licensed Professional Engineer in the state of Arkansas or ability to gain reciprocity within 6 months of hire * 10 or more years' similar experience in the water/wastewater utilities market ...

Practice Builder - Water/Wastewater

Bentonville, AR ยท On-site

$18.50 - $25.50/hr

The successful candidate will be a leader in a practice specializing in Water and Wastewater Engineering services. This individual will have an entrepreneurial spirit and create a vision for growth ...

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Water Engineer information

See Arkansas salary details

$9.1K

$50.8K

$66.2K

How much do water engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for water engineer in Arkansas is $50,782.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $33,100.00 and $61,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a water engineer?

A water engineer works on projects to ensure water supplies stay clean, properly dispose of wastewater and sewage, and prevent flood damage. Job duties include designing and building structures for water resource control, overseeing project construction, monitoring technical systems, and analyzing technical data. They work on structures such as pumping stations, reservoirs, and sea defense walls. To effectively perform this job, you must stay current with environmental management legislation and government regulations related to water resources.

What does a water engineer do?

A Water Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and managing systems and structures that control water resources, such as water treatment plants, drainage systems, and flood defense mechanisms. They work to ensure the safe and efficient supply, distribution, and management of water for communities, agriculture, and industry. Their work often involves environmental protection, sustainable resource management, and compliance with regulations. Water Engineers collaborate with government agencies, contractors, and the public to solve water-related challenges and improve water infrastructure.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a water engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Water Engineer, you generally need a degree in civil, environmental, or water resources engineering, along with strong analytical and problem-solving skills. Familiarity with hydraulic modeling software, GIS systems, and relevant certifications like Professional Engineer (PE) licensure is typically required. Effective communication, project management, and teamwork abilities help you collaborate with stakeholders and manage complex projects. These skills ensure safe, sustainable water systems and successful project delivery in compliance with regulatory standards.

How do water engineers typically collaborate with other professionals on large-scale projects?

Water Engineers often work closely with multidisciplinary teams that include civil engineers, environmental scientists, urban planners, and construction managers. Effective collaboration is essential for designing and implementing water supply systems, wastewater treatment plants, and flood control solutions. Regular meetings, clear communication, and shared project management tools help ensure all team members are aligned on objectives, timelines, and regulatory requirements. This collaborative structure provides valuable learning opportunities and helps Water Engineers broaden their expertise across related fields.

What is the difference between Water Engineer vs Civil Engineer?

AspectWater EngineerCivil Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Environmental, Civil, or Water Resources Engineering; Professional Engineer (PE) license often preferredBachelor's in Civil Engineering; PE license often required
Work EnvironmentDesigning water systems, managing water resources, working on water treatment and distribution projectsDesigning infrastructure like roads, bridges, buildings, including water-related structures
Industry UsagePrimarily in water management, environmental agencies, water treatment plantsConstruction, infrastructure, urban development sectors
Common Search/ComparisonWater Engineer vs Civil Engineer

Water Engineers focus on water-specific systems, resources, and treatment processes, often working within environmental and water management sectors. Civil Engineers have a broader scope, designing various infrastructure projects, including water-related structures. Both roles require similar credentials but differ in specialization and work environment.

Are water engineers in demand?

Water engineers are in high demand due to increasing infrastructure needs, environmental concerns, and water resource management challenges. The profession often requires knowledge of environmental regulations, CAD software, and sustainable practices, making it a stable career choice with growth prospects.

How much do water engineers make?

Water engineers in New York City typically earn between $70,000 and $120,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and certifications. Senior roles or specialized skills in water treatment, hydraulics, or environmental compliance can lead to higher salaries. The job often requires knowledge of industry standards, engineering software, and regulatory requirements.

What are the most commonly searched types of Water Engineer jobs in Arkansas?

The most popular types of Water Engineer jobs in Arkansas are:

What are popular job titles related to Water Engineer jobs in Arkansas?

For Water Engineer jobs in Arkansas, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Water Engineer jobs in Arkansas look for?

The top searched job categories for Water Engineer jobs in Arkansas are:

What cities in Arkansas are hiring for Water Engineer jobs?

Cities in Arkansas with the most Water Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Water Engineer job openings in Arkansas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 8% As Needed, and 92% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $50,782 per year, or $24.4 per hour.

City Engineer (Water Utilities)

Bentonville, AR โ€ข On-site

$88K - $150K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 25 days ago


Job description

Safety Status:             Safety Sensitive


SUMMARY:

Supervises and directs all aspects associated with the water distribution system and wastewater collection & treatment systems including asset management, capital planning, engineering design, project and construction management, business development, and issues relating to operations & maintenance.  This position will provide direction for the capital and land development teams.  The City engineer will deliver direct technical and professional design and technical support to the Water, Sewer Rehab and Wastewater Departments.

Levels of responsibility

Supervisory Responsibility:            4-6 total personnel

Annual Budget:                                  $15,000,000 -$20,000,000

Responsible Asset Value:                 Annual Capital Improvement Projects - $10,000,000 - $150,000,000 annually    

Technology Knowledge:                   Tyler Enterprise ERP, Executime, BambooHR, Microsoft Office including      Outlook, Excel and PowerPoint, AMI system, SCADA, workorder management system, Autodesk, esri products, Bluebeam, Trakit, Digital Collaboration software, project management software and other Engineering design software.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Reporting relationships, work assignments, and work schedules may be subject to change in order to meet City needs or operational requirements. Attendance at work and the ability to maintain professional relationships with the public, supervisors, and co-workers are essential elements of this position. Other duties may be assigned.

Works under the general supervision and guidance of the Technical Services Manager.  Shall direct the work of others within the technical services team to facilitate timely, accurate correspondence relating to capital projects.

Oversees the review of municipal civil engineering projects for compliance with the City’s water and sanitary sewer standards, specifications and ordinances.

Works closely with all city department’s relating to new capital projects within the City of Bentonville.

Confers with City leaders and management and other water utilities staff to implement plans and recommendations.

Assist the Technical Services Manager in the formulation and detail of the water and sewer specifications.  Work on other City policies and standards may be expected.

Assists the GIS Department with information necessary for the maintenance of records and record drawings concerning subdivisions and capital improvement projects.

Oversees capital project finals to determine final acceptance of all projects constructed for City ownership and maintenance, including water and sanitary sewer mains within the City of Bentonville.

Provide support for in-house engineering projects and as directed by the Technical Services Manager, provide technical support for other municipal departments.

Conducts and attends meetings with City departments, outside developers, Engineers, and contractors related to capital projects within, and affecting the City. 

Inspects construction site to monitor progress and ensure conformance to engineering plans, specifications, and construction and safety standards.

Uses computer assisted engineering and design software and equipment to assist with preparation of specifications and associated details.

Oversees and assists in updating, promoting, and implementing the Water Master Plan, Collection System Master Plan, and the Wastewater Master Plans.

Deal courteously and diplomatically with citizens and the public.

Technical assignments may include hydraulic modeling, cost estimating and general civil/ site development.

Maintains and oversees the flow monitoring and pressure monitoring programs for the department.

Coordinates activities concerned with technical developments, scheduling, and resolving engineering design and test problems. Evaluates design changes, specifications and drawing releases.

Studies engineering and technical publications to keep abreast of technical changes and developments in industry.

Administers and monitors operational budgets to attain financial objectives.

Reviews contract service reports for each installation, advising management as to project status, regulatory agency permit compliance, and technical management attitudes.

Serve as a project liaison to public, property owners, media, other government agencies, other employees, and City officials regarding assigned projects.  Ensure affected parties are informed of the project ramifications and schedule, and that concerns are addressed, and conflicts resolved in a manner clear to all parties.

Manage several simultaneous construction contracts.  Conducts pre-construction and site conferences.

Manage, plan, and prioritize tasks on multiple projects of varying scope and complexity with minimal supervision.  Ensure department leadership is aware of status.

Responsible for facilitating the hiring of Water Utilities Department staff, monitoring performance, and conducting staff reviews.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES:

Supervises 4-6 employees that are a part of the Technical Services Team within the Water Utilities Department.  Is responsible for the overall direction, coordination, and evaluation of this unit.  Carries out supervisory responsibilities in accordance with the organization's policies and applicable laws. Responsibilities include training employees, planning, assigning, and directing work, appraising performance, recommending rewarding and disciplining employees, and addressing employee complaints and resolving problems.

QUALIFICATIONS:

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE:

Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in civil or construction engineering and ten (10) years related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience.  Five-plus (5+) years of progressively responsible civil engineering experience in a management or supervisory level supplemented by college-level coursework with a concentration in civil engineering, public administration, construction management, or another job-related field. A background in water and sewer design is extremely encouraged.


LANGUAGE SKILLS:

Ability to read, analyze, and interpret common scientific and technical journals, financial reports, and legal documents.  Ability to respond to common inquiries or complaints from customers, regulatory agencies, or members of the business community.  Ability to effectively present information to top City management, public groups, and professional engineers, engineering firms/groups, and developers.

MATHEMATICAL SKILLS:

Ability to apply advanced mathematical concepts such as exponents, logarithms, quadratic equations, and permutations.  Ability to apply mathematical operations to such tasks as frequency distribution, determination of test reliability and validity, analysis of variance, correlation techniques, sampling theory, and factor analysis.

REASONING ABILITY:

Ability to define problems, collect data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions. Ability to interpret an extensive variety of technical instructions in mathematical or diagram form and deal with several abstract and concrete variables.

CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS:

  • Valid Driver’s License
  • 4-Year Civil Engineering Degree or related degree AND Experienced-Based Civil Engineering Certifications (preferred but not required)
  • Possess or Ability to obtain a Water Distribution Class 4 License
  • Possess or Ability to obtain a Wastewater Class 2 license.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; and talk or hear.  The employee frequently is required to stand, walk, and sit.  The employee is occasionally required to climb or balance; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl; and taste or smell.  The employee must regularly lift and/or move up to 10 pounds, frequently lift and/or move up to 25 pounds, and occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.  Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently exposed to outside weather conditions.  The employee is occasionally exposed to moving mechanical parts; high, precarious places; and risk of electrical shock.  The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.