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Water Modeling Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Dewberry

Water Resources Engineer

Glen Allen, VA · On-site

$82K - $106K/yr

Dewberry is currently seeking a Water Resources Engineer in our Richmond, VA office. This position ... modeling * Knowledge/experience with ESRI Arc GIS, HEC-HMS, HEC-RAS, SWMM, HY-8, TR-20, AutoCAD.

Dewberry

Water/Wastewater Project Manager

Danville, VA · On-site

$115K - $147K/yr

Typical projects involve pump station design, inflow and infiltration studies, hydraulic modeling, collection system condition assessment and design, water distribution and storage, with potential ...

Dewberry

Water Resources Engineer

Virginia Beach, VA · On-site

$80K - $103K/yr

Dewberry is currently seeking a Water Resources Engineer in our Virginia Beach, VA office. This ... modeling * Knowledge/experience with ESRI Arc GIS, HEC-HMS, HEC-RAS, SWMM, HY-8, TR-20, AutoCAD.

Dewberry

Water Resources Engineer

Virginia Beach, VA

$80K - $103K/yr

Dewberry is currently seeking a Water Resources Engineer in our Virginia Beach, VA office. This ... modeling * Knowledge/experience with ESRI Arc GIS, HEC-HMS, HEC-RAS, SWMM, HY-8, TR-20, AutoCAD.

Dewberry

Water/Wastewater Project Manager

Danville, VA

$115K - $147K/yr

Typical projects involve pump station design, inflow and infiltration studies, hydraulic modeling, collection system condition assessment and design, water distribution and storage, with potential ...

Dewberry

Water Resources Engineer

Glen Allen, VA

$82K - $106K/yr

Dewberry is currently seeking a Water Resources Engineer in our Richmond, VA office. This position ... modeling * Knowledge/experience with ESRI Arc GIS, HEC-HMS, HEC-RAS, SWMM, HY-8, TR-20, AutoCAD.

RK&K

Project Manager - Water Resources

Richmond, VA · Hybrid

As a Project Manager on our Water Resources team, you will assume responsibility of company-wide ... Serve as a subject matter expert and utilize hydraulic modeling software such as HEC-RAS to model ...

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All JobsWater Modeling JobsWater Modeling Jobs in Virginia

Water Modeling information

See Virginia salary details

$38.7K

$111.4K

$153.7K

How much do water modeling jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for water modeling in Virginia is $111,404.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $94,700.00 and $135,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a water modeler do?

A water modeler develops and uses computer simulations to analyze water flow, distribution, and management in various environments. They often work with specialized software, collect data, and create models to support infrastructure planning, flood risk assessment, and environmental protection projects.

How can I get into the water industry?

To pursue a career in water modeling, typically a degree in environmental engineering, civil engineering, or a related field is required. Gaining experience with water systems, hydraulic modeling software, and obtaining relevant certifications can improve job prospects in this field.

What career tests water?

Water modeling is a specialized field within environmental or civil engineering where professionals use software tools to simulate water flow and quality in natural and built systems. Careers in water modeling typically require knowledge of hydrology, hydraulics, and proficiency with modeling software such as HEC-RAS or SWMM, often supported by relevant certifications and a background in engineering or environmental science.

What is a Water Modeling job?

A Water Modeling job involves using computer simulations and analytical techniques to study water systems such as rivers, lakes, groundwater, and stormwater drainage. Professionals in this field develop models to predict water flow, quality, and availability, helping to inform decision-making for water management, environmental protection, and infrastructure development. They often work with engineers, hydrologists, and policymakers to address challenges like flood control, drought planning, and pollution mitigation.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Water Modeling position, and why are they important?

To excel in Water Modeling, you need a strong background in civil or environmental engineering, hydrology, or a related field, along with analytical and quantitative skills. Proficiency with modeling software such as HEC-RAS, SWMM, MIKE, or ArcGIS and familiarity with relevant certifications or regulatory standards is highly valued. Excellent problem-solving abilities, clear communication, and collaboration skills set top professionals apart. These competencies are vital for accurately simulating water systems, interpreting complex data, and effectively delivering actionable insights to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.

Are hydrologists in high demand?

Hydrologists, including those specializing in water modeling, are in moderate demand due to increasing concerns over water resources and climate change. Employment opportunities are expected to grow at a steady rate, especially for those with strong technical skills and proficiency in modeling software like HEC-RAS or SWMM. Certification and advanced degrees can enhance job prospects in this field.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a Water Modeling professional?

As a Water Modeling professional, your daily responsibilities often include developing and calibrating hydrologic and hydraulic models, analyzing simulation results, preparing technical reports, and presenting findings to project teams or clients. You may collaborate closely with engineers, environmental scientists, and urban planners to ensure model outputs support design and decision-making processes for projects such as floodplain mapping, stormwater management, or infrastructure planning. Routine tasks also involve data collection, quality assurance, and staying current with the latest modeling techniques and regulatory requirements. This role offers a dynamic mix of independent analysis and teamwork, providing valuable experience on diverse water resource projects.

What are the most commonly searched types of Water Modeling jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Water Modeling jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Water Modeling jobs in Virginia? For Water Modeling jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Water Modeling jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Water Modeling jobs in Virginia are:
Water Modeling jobs near you
Infographic showing various Water Modeling job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 5% Internship, 5% As Needed, 85% Full Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 95% In-person, and 5% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $111,404 per year, or $53.6 per hour.
Water Resources Project Engineer I

Water Resources Project Engineer I

Johnson Mirmiran and Thompson, Inc.

Richmond, VA • On-site

$75K - $110K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago

Job description


Johnson, Mirmiran & Thompson is a dynamic, 100% employee-owned consulting firm with more than 2,800 professionals, providing a full range of multidisciplinary engineering, architecture, information technology, and related services to public agencies and private clients throughout the United States. JMT is currently ranked #45 on Engineering News-Record's list of the Top 500 Design Firms.
Position Summary: JMT is seeking a motivated mid-level Water Resources engineer with 4-10 years of experience to join the Richmond, VA group. The successful candidate will be well-versed across the Water Resources discipline with demonstrated design experience in drainage and stormwater management design, complex hydrologic and hydraulic modeling, and erosion and sediment control design with the supporting capabilities to perform a variety of concurrent design tasks in the civil engineering field.
This position will help grow the Water Resources discipline as part of a multi-discipline engineering office with strong transportation resume and clients. Successful candidates will be expected to effectively perform design duties and grow into a management role for a variety of Water Resource related engineering projects. The candidate must have a strong understanding of Virginia stormwater regulations, experience in stormwater and drainage design for Virginia transportation projects, manage and prioritize their time all while demonstrating a willingness to work in a group setting with a varying mix of experience levels.
This candidate will be responsible for engineering design using knowledge of general engineering principles and practices to interpret, organize, execute, and coordinate assignments with limited supervision. Acts as a technical mentor to less experienced engineers.
Compensation for this position is $75,000 - $110,000, commensurate with experience, education and certifications. The provided range is a good faith estimate based on the requirements described within the job description. We notice that we receive a wide variety of applicants and recognize that the person selected may be less experienced or more experienced. If so, the actual salary range may vary from the estimate provided.
Essential Functions and Responsibilities
  • Develop drainage design and stormwater management design in accordance with client specifications and guidelines, using current design software
  • Analyze survey reports, maps, drawings, aerial photography and other topographical or geological data to plan projects
  • Conduct watershed studies and hydrologic and hydraulic analysis
  • Assist in the preparation of Contract Documents including Scopes, Fees, Plans, Reports, Specifications and Cost Estimates
  • Expected to perform daily duties in a collaborative environment with engineers across other disciplines
  • Mentor younger engineers
  • Coordination with contractors, outside consultants, government agencies, and JMT staff from multiple locations and technical disciplines
  • Assist in construction phase service requests from the client or contractor

Nonessential Functions and Responsibilities
  • Perform other related duties as assigned

Required Skills
  • Knowledge and design experience in linear drainage, stormwater management and erosion and sediment control design, complex modeling across several programs and site plan developments for state municipalities
  • Knowledge of complex Hydrologic and Hydraulic modeling
  • Proficiency in Microstation, OpenRoads Designer, HEC-RAS, and PCSWMM
  • Ability to progress designs with multiple concurrent projects
  • Ability to provide quality deliverables while working on concurrent projects
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills, which includes Microsoft Office products
  • Demonstrate time management while providing a quality deliverable within budget
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills

Required Experience
  • Bachelor's degree in Civil or Environmental engineering with an emphasis in Water Resources from an ABET accredited engineering program
  • 4-9 years of experience in Water Resources engineering
  • Professional Engineer licensed in the State of Virginia or ability to obtain licensure within 6 months of hire
  • Hydrologic Modeling experience using TR-55 / TR20 and Rational Methodologies
  • Hydraulic Modeling experience using HEC-RAS, HY-8, HydroCAD or other applicable modeling software
  • Drainage and Stormwater Management design experience
  • Erosion and Sediment Control design experience
  • Experience working with clients at the local and state levels

Preferred Experience
  • Virginia DEQ certified stormwater management combined administrator
  • Familiarity with VDOT and Locally Administered Project (LAP) requirements and protocols
  • Experience with GIS

Working Conditions
Work is performed within a general office environment 60% of the time. Work is generally sedentary in nature but may require occasional standing and walking. Lighting and temperature are adequate and there are no hazardous or unpleasant conditions caused by noise, dust, etc. within the office environment.
Field work is required on occasion where work may be conducted outside in heat/cold, wet/humid, and dry/arid conditions. Some lifting (up to 25lbs) may be required as needed.
Benefits
JMT offers outstanding opportunities for career and professional growth. We are 100% employee-owned (ESOP) and offer outstanding health care coverage and other benefits, including:
  • Affordable Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance
  • Company paid Life and Disability Insurance
  • Paid Time Off
  • Paid Holidays
  • Paid Caregiver Leave Program
  • 401K Retirement Plan (Traditional and Roth options)
  • Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)
  • Career Development Programs
  • And more...
  • Benefits JMT

Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected by state or federal law.

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