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Water Quality Modeler Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Arcadis

Senior Hydraulic Modeler

Akron, OH · On-site

... water quality models, as well as feasibility studies. Key responsibilities include leading ... distribution system analyses through the development, calibration, and application of hydraulic ...

Arcadis

Senior Hydraulic Modeler

Akron, OH · On-site

... water quality models, as well as feasibility studies. Key responsibilities include leading ... distribution system analyses through the development, calibration, and application of hydraulic ...

HDR

Water/Wastewater Hydraulic Modeler

San Diego, CA · On-site

Analyzing flow, demand, population, water quality, and facilities condition data * Performing ... Water/Wastewater Hydraulic Modeler, hydraulic modeling, InfoWater, InfoSewer, InfoWorks ICM ...

HDR

Water/Wastewater Hydraulic Modeler

San Diego, CA · On-site

Analyzing flow, demand, population, water quality, and facilities condition data * Performing ... Water/Wastewater Hydraulic Modeler, hydraulic modeling, InfoWater, InfoSewer, InfoWorks ICM ...

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Water Quality Modeler information

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How much do water quality modeler jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for water quality modeler in the United States is $40.33, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $31.25 and $43.51 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Water Quality Modelers?

Water Quality Modelers are environmental professionals who use computer models to simulate and predict the quality of water in natural and engineered systems, such as rivers, lakes, reservoirs, and wastewater treatment plants. They analyze how pollutants, nutrients, and other substances move and change in water bodies, helping inform decisions related to water management, pollution control, and environmental protection. Their work supports regulatory compliance, environmental impact assessments, and the development of strategies to maintain or improve water quality.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Water Quality Modeler, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Water Quality Modeler, you need a solid background in environmental science or engineering, hydrology, and water resource management, typically with a relevant degree. Proficiency with modeling software such as HEC-RAS, SWMM, or QUAL2K, as well as experience with GIS and data analysis tools, is essential. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help convey complex modeling results to diverse stakeholders. These skills ensure accurate predictions, informed decision-making, and effective solutions for managing and protecting water resources.

How does a Water Quality Modeler typically collaborate with multidisciplinary teams during a project?

Water Quality Modelers often work closely with environmental engineers, hydrologists, GIS specialists, and regulatory agencies to ensure accurate and comprehensive modeling outcomes. Collaboration usually involves sharing data, integrating different modeling tools, and interpreting results to inform decision-making. Effective communication is essential, as modelers must translate complex technical findings into actionable recommendations for both technical and non-technical stakeholders. This teamwork helps address diverse environmental challenges and ensures compliance with regulatory standards.

What is the difference between Water Quality Modeler vs Hydrologist?

AspectWater Quality ModelerHydrologist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in environmental science, civil engineering, or related fields; experience with modeling softwareBachelor's or Master's in geology, hydrology, or environmental science; often includes fieldwork experience
Work EnvironmentOffice-based with computer modeling; some field data collectionFieldwork-focused; data collection and analysis in natural settings
Industry UsageWater resource management, environmental consulting, government agenciesWater resource management, environmental agencies, research institutions

While both roles focus on water systems, Water Quality Modelers specialize in creating computer models to predict water quality, whereas Hydrologists analyze water movement and distribution in natural environments. The roles often overlap in environmental projects but differ in daily tasks and focus areas.

More about Water Quality Modeler jobs
What states have the most Water Quality Modeler jobs? States with the most job openings for Water Quality Modeler jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Water Quality Modeler jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Water Quality Modeler jobs are:
Water Quality Modeler jobs near you
Infographic showing various Water Quality Modeler job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 1% Internship, 81% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $83,896 per year, or $40.3 per hour.
Principal Water Distribution Modeling Engineer

Principal Water Distribution Modeling Engineer

Geosyntec Consultants, Inc.

Salt Lake City, UT • Hybrid

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Serve as a technical leader for drinking water distribution system modeling, planning, and infrastructure evaluation projects.

  • Lead development, calibration, maintenance, and application of hydraulic and water quality models for municipal water systems.

  • Direct water system master plans, infrastructure planning studies, and long-term capital improvement programs.

Job description

Do you want to build an impactful career and help solve some of the most complex water infrastructure challenges facing communities today?

Geosyntec has an exciting opportunity for a Principal Water Distribution Modeling Engineer to join our growing Water and Wastewater practice. The preferred location for this position is Salt Lake City, Utah, though candidates may also work from another Geosyntec office location with flexibility for hybrid and remote work arrangements at the discretion of the company.

In this role, you will provide technical leadership for drinking water distribution system planning, hydraulic and water quality modeling, system optimization, and capital improvement planning projects for municipal and utility clients across North America. You will work with multidisciplinary teams of engineers, scientists, and planners to help clients improve system reliability, resiliency, operational performance, and water quality while supporting long-term growth objectives.

Geosyntec is an innovative, international engineering and consulting firm serving private- and public-sector clients to address complex challenges involving water resources, environmental systems, and civil infrastructure. Ranked among ENR's leading engineering firms, Geosyntec is recognized for technical excellence, exceptional client service, and a collaborative culture that empowers professionals to grow and lead

We invest in our people. Each employee is unique, and your career at Geosyntec will be too. We offer competitive pay and benefits, and well-being programs to support you and your family.

To Learn More Visit: http://www.geosyntec.com/careers/.


  • Serve as a technical leader for drinking water distribution system modeling, planning, and infrastructure evaluation projects;
  • Lead development, calibration, maintenance, and application of hydraulic and water quality models for municipal water systems; 
  • Direct water system master plans, infrastructure planning studies, and long-term capital improvement programs; 
  • Perform and oversee hydraulic analyses related to system capacity, pressure management, storage operations, fire flow, reliability, and emergency response planning; 
  • Lead water quality evaluations including water age, disinfectant residuals, constituent tracking, source blending, and operational optimization studies; 
  • Develop and oversee field testing and model calibration programs, including pressure monitoring, flow monitoring, hydrant testing, and operational data collection; 
  • Integrate and analyze GIS, SCADA, AMI/AMR, billing, and operational datasets to improve model fidelity and support utility decision-making; 
  • Develop technically defensible infrastructure recommendations supported by hydraulic, operational, financial, and risk-based analyses; 
  • Prepare and review technical reports, memoranda, presentations, and planning documents; 
  • Collaborate directly with utility leadership, operations personnel, and executive stakeholders to communicate technical findings and implementation strategies; 
  • Mentor and develop junior and mid-level engineers while advancing modeling best practices across the firm; and 
  • Support business development activities including client relationship management, proposal development, conference participation, and strategic growth initiatives.

  • Bachelor’s degree in civil engineering, environmental engineering, or a related engineering discipline. (required)
  • Advanced degree in the same/similar field. (preferred)
  • Professional Engineer (P.E.) registration. (required)

  • 10+ years of experience (15+ preferred) in drinking water system planning, hydraulic modeling, water quality modeling, or water distribution engineering consulting; or equivalent combination of education and experience. (required)
  • Demonstrated experience leading hydraulic and water quality modeling efforts for municipal water utilities. (required)
  • Experience developing and implementing water system master plans and capital improvement programs.
  • Expertise in water distribution system operations, planning, reliability analysis, and water quality management.
  • Experience utilizing GIS, SCADA, AMI/AMR, billing, and operational datasets in support of model development and planning studies.
  • Proficiency with industry-standard modeling software such as InfoWater Pro, OpenFlows WaterGEMS , EPANET, AquaTwin Water, and/or similar hydraulic and water quality modeling platforms. (required)
  • Experience leading model calibration programs and integrating field data into planning and operational analyses. (required)
  • Strong technical writing, presentation, and communication skills. (required)
  • Demonstrated ability to lead multidisciplinary project teams and mentor technical staff. (required)
  • Experience interacting directly with utility management, operations staff, and executive stakeholders. (required)
  • Health & Safety training, medical monitoring, and client-driven drug and background testing may be required.
  • Valid U.S. driver's license and satisfactory driving record for business travel. (required)

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