ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Water Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

GFT.

Water Treatment Process Engineer

Newport News, VA

$80K - $180K/yr

Joining the water engineering team at GFT means contributing to innovative solutions for sustainable water management and infrastructure. Our team excels in, advanced water and wastewater treatment ...

GFT.

Water Treatment Process Engineer

Fairfax, VA

$80K - $180K/yr

Joining the water engineering team at GFT means contributing to innovative solutions for sustainable water management and infrastructure. Our team excels in, advanced water and wastewater treatment ...

GFT.

Water Treatment Process Engineer

Richmond, VA · On-site

$80K - $180K/yr

Joining the water engineering team at GFT means contributing to innovative solutions for sustainable water management and infrastructure. Our team excels in, advanced water and wastewater treatment ...

GFT.

Water Treatment Process Engineer

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$80K - $180K/yr

Joining the water engineering team at GFT means contributing to innovative solutions for sustainable water management and infrastructure. Our team excels in, advanced water and wastewater treatment ...

GFT.

Water Treatment Process Engineer

Virginia Beach, VA

$80K - $180K/yr

Joining the water engineering team at GFT means contributing to innovative solutions for sustainable water management and infrastructure. Our team excels in, advanced water and wastewater treatment ...

GFT.

Water Treatment Process Engineer

Fairfax, VA

$80K - $180K/yr

Joining the water engineering team at GFT means contributing to innovative solutions for sustainable water management and infrastructure. Our team excels in, advanced water and wastewater treatment ...

Dar Group

Wastewater Design Engineer

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$95K - $142K/yr

The Water Engineer in Alexandria will lead the delivery of water and wastewater engineering services to a variety of clients in the DMV region. Near term assignments in the region could include ...

Dar Group

Wastewater Design Engineer

Alexandria, VA · Hybrid

$95K - $142K/yr

The Water Engineer in Alexandria will lead the delivery of water and wastewater engineering services to a variety of clients in the DMV region. Near term assignments in the region could include ...

AECOM

Senior Water/Wastewater Engineer

Roanoke, VA · On-site

The selected candidate will become part of an established water engineering practice working on prominent wet weather remediation programs, sewer collection, potable water distribution and storage ...

AECOM

Senior Water/Wastewater Engineer

Roanoke, VA · On-site

The selected candidate will become part of an established water engineering practice working on prominent wet weather remediation programs, sewer collection, potable water distribution and storage ...

GFT.

Water Treatment Facility Design Engineer

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$90K - $200K/yr

GFT is seeking a Water Treatment Design Engineer to join our Water team! This role follows a hybrid work model, requiring regular attendance at one of our many offices. Joining the water resources ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsWater Engineer JobsWater Engineer Jobs in Virginia

Water Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$10.9K

$60.9K

$79.3K

How much do water engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for water engineer in Virginia is $60,886.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39,700.00 and $73,900.00 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.
More about Water Engineer jobs

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

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

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Water Engineer jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Water Engineer job openings:

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

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

Water Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Water Engineer job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $60,886 per year, or $29.3 per hour.

Lead Engineer/Sr. Project Manager, Water

Dar Group

Richmond, VA • Hybrid

$140K - $211K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

TYLin is a globally recognized, full-service infrastructure consulting firm committed to providing innovative, cost-effective, constructible designs for the global infrastructure market. With over 3,000 employees throughout the Americas, Asia, and Europe, the firm provides support on projects of varying size and complexity. Together, we enhance conventional designs with smarter, more resilient systems. We provide people with better mobility. We steward precious resources by finding more sustainable solutions.

Job SummaryTYLin is seeking a Lead Water Engineer to join our Water team! The Lead Water Engineer will lead project teams for key regional clients in the planning, design and construction of complex and innovative stormwater, water, and wastewater infrastructure. Projects may include wastewater treatment, collection system, pumping, water distribution and storage, reclaimed water, regulatory support, and stormwater management systems. The successful candidate will work with clients primarily in the Richmond, Virginia area.Responsibilities & Qualifications
  • Organize and lead teams to pursue and secure stormwater, water, and wastewater opportunities. This includes positioning with local clients and leading the development of proposals.
  • Lead engineering design of complex assignments, including facilities and pipeline condition assessment and rehabilitation design, planning studies for future capacity needs, hydraulic calculations, development of technical specifications and drawings, development of opinions of probable construction cost, task proposals, and requests for proposals.
  • Develop technical reports, studies, and memoranda to support engineering analysis as deliverables to the client.
  • Manage projects and resources including tracking budgets, setting schedules, coordinating staffing and resources, coordinating with the client, and invoicing and payments.
  • Mentor and help support the growth of staff through both professional and technical oversight and support.
  • Present project deliverables as required by clients.

QUALIFICATIONS

  • Education: B.S. degree in Civil or Environmental Engineering is required. M.S. degree preferred.
  • Experience: 15+ years of experience in water and wastewater engineering consulting performing studies, design, and construction services for municipal clients.
  • Certifications, Licenses: Professional Engineering (PE) licensure is required.
  • Strong communication and technical writing skills.
  • Experience in the preparation of contract documents, including drawings and specifications, for complex water and wastewater projects.
  • Experience working on and coordinating with an interdisciplinary team with other engineers, including structural, geotechnical, electrical, mechanical, instrumentation and control, architecture, etc.
  • Client focused, always striving to give clients the best solutions.
  • Strong commitment to innovation by creating new and better ways to solve clients' toughest challenges.
  • High levels of integrity, always doing the right thing in an ethical, fair, and sustainable way.
  • Demonstrated experience of collaboration in a diverse and inclusive team, working together toward technical excellence.


Additional Information
TYLin is committed to pay equity.As part of that commitment, we haveprovidedthe base compensation range of$140,800- $211,200 annually for this position and local market.We recognize that each candidate brings a unique set of skills, experience,educationand competencies to the table that will be reflected in our offer.TYLinis proud to offer exciting career development opportunities.#LI-Hybrid

TYLin offers a comprehensive total rewards package. Our benefits may include extensive medical, disability and life insurance coverage, continuing education benefits, paid time off, employee assistance program and a retirement savings plan with company matching contributions.

We encourage all candidates to explore our total rewards offering.

Collaboration, mission-driven focus, discipline, and leadership skills developed through military service benefit us all. Whether you are a Veteran, Guardsman or Reservist, a Military Spouse or you are planning to transition to civilian life in the near future, we welcome and value your application.

TYLin is an equal opportunity employer, and we prohibit discrimination and harassment of any type as protected by federal, provincial, state or local laws. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.The company and its employees are required to comply with all local health authority, legal or lawful client requirements.

Apply