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Water Engineer Jobs in Madison, WI (NOW HIRING)

Stantec

Water Resources Engineer

Madison, WI · On-site

$79K - $108K/yr

Your Opportunity The role of the Water Resources Engineer / Project Manager is to support client management, project management, and provide technical support within our water resources group. In ...

Otak, Inc.

Senior Water Resources Engineer

Oregon, WI · On-site

$119K - $170K/yr

Otak is seeking a Senior Water Resources Engineer to provide technical leadership on complex water resources projects, including stream and river restoration initiatives that enhance watershed health ...

Shive-Hattery

Water Resources Engineer

Madison, WI · On-site

$79K - $108K/yr

Why This Role Matters As a Water Resources Engineer with 4+ years of experience you'll play a key role in supporting the firm and shaping projects that make a difference-from concept through ...

Shive Hattery Group

Water Resources Engineer

Madison, WI · On-site

$79K - $108K/yr

Why This Role Matters As a Water Resources Engineer with 4+ years of experience you'll play a key role in supporting the firm and shaping projects that make a difference-from concept through ...

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All JobsWater Engineer JobsWater Engineer Jobs in Madison, WI

Water Engineer information

See Madison, WI salary details

$11K

$61.2K

$79.7K

How much do water engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for water engineer in Madison, WI is $61,212.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39,900.00 and $74,300.00 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 popular job titles related to Water Engineer jobs in Madison, WI?

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

What job categories do people searching Water Engineer jobs in Madison, WI look for?

The top searched job categories for Water Engineer jobs in Madison, WI are:

Water Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Water Engineer job openings in Madison, WI as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 50% In-person, and 50% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $61,212 per year, or $29.4 per hour.

Water/Wastewater Engineering Team Leader

Madison, WI • On-site

Ruekert & Mielke, Inc
Civil Engineering Construction • 51 - 200 employees
Learn more about Ruekert & Mielke, Incexternal

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 7 days ago

Job description

Are you ready to join a collaborative team at Ruekert & Mielke and make an impact as a Market Leader for Water/Wastewater? This newly created position, driven by the firm’s growth and internal advancement opportunities, reflects our continued commitment to innovation and client success. This is more than a project management role, it is an opportunity to build teams, strengthen client relationships, expand a key market, and help shape the future of our water, wastewater, and SCADA services. 


This is a senior level leadership role for someone passionate about team building and mentorship.  In this pivotal position, you will recruit, lead, and grow a dynamic team of technical professionals while serving as a trusted partner to clients and collaborating closely with firm leadership to support long-term service growth. 


What You’ll Gain

  • Leadership opportunity to grow and mentor your own water/wastewater engineering team
  • Unmatched support from an 80-year-strong firm with robust technical and corporate resources
  • Career-defining growth through client interaction and team building


Goals & Responsibilities

This position includes, but is not limited to, the following duties and responsibilities:

  • Recruit, mentor, and lead a team of engineering professionals
  • Provide leadership and oversight on municipal and private development projects
  • Drive market growth by building client relationships, responding to RFPs, and networking
  • Serve as a technical resource for staff training, quality control, and project management
  • Develop, execute, and oversee strategic client relationship plans
  • Act as the primary point of contact for clients and subconsultants
  • Collaborate with leadership across the firm to execute corporate strategies and advance water/wastewater service capabilities


Qualifications & Skills

The ideal candidate for this position will possess the following education, experience, and abilities:

  • Bachelor’s Degree (or higher) in Civil Engineering or a related field
  • Professional Engineer License (PE) in Wisconsin, or ability to obtain
  • Minimum of 10 years of progressively responsible civil engineering experience, focusing on water/wastewater engineering design and review
  • Strong technical background in water and wastewater system, with working knowledge or related disciplines such as permitting and construction
  • Proven experience with client interaction, business development, proposal preparation, and contract negotiation
  • Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills
  • Ability to thrive both independently and within a team environment, while managing deadlines effectively

Benefits

Ruekert & Mielke, Inc. is proud to be 100% employee owned. Our flexible working environment, engaged culture, and in‐depth training and mentoring program are just a few of the reasons why we are consistently named a “Top Workplace” by the Journal Sentinel.

We offer a highly competitive compensation program and unique benefits, including:

  • Employee stock ownership plan
  • Performance bonuses
  • Generous personal time off and holiday programs
  • Health, dental, vision, life, dependent life, and disability insurance
  • Parental leave
  • 401(k) and Roth 401(k) with employer match
  • Flexible spending accounts
  • Prepaid legal services
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Tuition reimbursement


About Us

Ruekert & Mielke, Inc. is a 100% employee-owned civil engineering firm dedicated to helping local communities thrive. We provide innovative solutions in municipal infrastructure, water resources, GIS, and more, partnering with clients to deliver sustainable, cost-effective projects. Our employee ownership culture fosters collaboration, accountability, and professional growth, making R/M a great place to build your career.


Visit www.ruekertmielke.com to learn more.


Learn how you can “make community possible” as an employee owner at R/M! Watch Video