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Water Planning Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Planning Team Leader

Santa Fe, NM · On-site

$77K - $92K/yr

For Assignment in Capital/ Transportation/ Water Planning Team Leader: Develops and oversees capital planning, plan updates, and policy recommendations related to County objectives for Capital ...

Showing results 21-40

Water Planning information

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$56K

$103.2K

$157K

How much do water planning jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for water planning in the United States is $103,218.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $83,500.00 and $116,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is water planning?

Water planning is the process of evaluating, managing, and allocating water resources to meet current and future needs for people, agriculture, industry, and the environment. It involves assessing water availability, forecasting demand, developing strategies for conservation, and ensuring supply reliability during droughts or emergencies. Water planners work with communities, governments, and other stakeholders to create sustainable plans that balance competing demands while protecting natural ecosystems.

What are some common challenges water planning professionals face when developing sustainable resource management strategies?

Water Planning professionals often encounter challenges such as balancing competing demands from agricultural, industrial, and residential stakeholders while ensuring environmental sustainability. They must navigate regulatory requirements, address climate variability, and anticipate future population growth. Effective communication and collaboration with engineers, policymakers, and community members are essential to develop and implement viable solutions. Staying current with technological advancements and data analysis tools also plays a crucial role in overcoming these challenges.

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

To thrive in Water Planning, you need a solid background in environmental science, hydrology, or civil engineering, often supported by a relevant degree and experience in water resource management. Familiarity with Geographic Information Systems (GIS), water modeling software, and regulatory frameworks is critical. Strong analytical thinking, stakeholder communication, and project management skills help you navigate complex planning processes and coordinate diverse interests. These abilities are essential for developing sustainable water strategies and ensuring compliance with environmental policies.

What is the difference between Water Planning vs Water Resources Engineer?

AspectWater PlanningWater Resources Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Civil, Environmental, or Water Resources Engineering; often requires certification in water managementBachelor's or Master's in Civil, Environmental, or Water Resources Engineering; professional engineering license often preferred
Work EnvironmentGovernment agencies, consulting firms, urban planning departmentsEngineering firms, government agencies, research institutions
Industry UsageFocuses on developing water management plans, policy, and sustainable water use strategiesDesigns and analyzes water systems, infrastructure projects, and hydraulic models

Water Planning and Water Resources Engineer roles overlap in water management and engineering principles. While Water Planning emphasizes developing strategies and policies for sustainable water use, Water Resources Engineers focus on designing and analyzing water infrastructure. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and often work within the same industry sectors, but their core responsibilities differ in scope and focus.

More about Water Planning jobs

What cities are hiring for Water Planning jobs?

Cities with the most Water Planning job openings:

What states have the most Water Planning jobs?

States with the most job openings for Water Planning jobs include:

Infographic showing various Water Planning job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $103,218 per year, or $49.6 per hour.

Water Project Engineer

Harrison Consulting Solutions

Dubuque, IA

Full-time

Re-posted 19 hours ago


Job description

Established multi-disciplined consulting firm is looking to add a talented Senior Potable Water Project Engineer to their Dubuque, Iowa team!


Responsibilities:

  • Potable water planning, feasibility studies, and compliance reporting
  • Develop drawings using AutoCAD and/or BIM software platforms
  • Develop Technical Specifications
  • Regulatory/technical permit preparation
  • Administer/observe construction of potable water-related projects
  • Project scoping/budgeting
  • Interact with clients, vendors, manufacturers, and the public


Requirements:
  • Bachelor’s degree in environmental or civil engineering
  • 6+ years of prior experience with relevant project types
  • Professional Engineer (PE) license


Salary is commensurate with experience.


Successful applicants must be authorized to work in the USA without sponsorship.


All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to protected veteran status, disability, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin.


Please contact Laura Harrison for further information!


www.harrisonconsultingsolutions.com

517-906-6926