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Water Quality Modeling Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

Junior Water Resources Engineer

Birmingham, AL · On-site

$74K - $101K/yr

... watershed modeling and floodplain mapping to individual site drainage and stormwater quality ... or Water Resources Engineering. Master of Science qualification preferred. Classwork or job ...

Experience conducting water quality evaluations, environmental impact assessments, and hydrologic ... models that support project planning and regulatory compliance. The candidate should demonstrate ...

GIS Analyst / Senior GIS Analyst

Birmingham, AL · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... their water quality and water supply goals. As a GIS Analyst / Senior GIS Analyst at Hazen, you ... Working knowledge of ArcGIS Pro and Model Builder * Exposure and interest in ArcPy and the ArcGIS ...

GIS Analyst / Senior GIS Analyst

Tuscaloosa, AL · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... their water quality and water supply goals. As a GIS Analyst / Senior GIS Analyst at Hazen, you ... Working knowledge of ArcGIS Pro and Model Builder * Exposure and interest in ArcPy and the ArcGIS ...

These markets include aerospace and defense, factory automation, air and water quality ... A robust understanding of modeling and simulation principles. * Education or experience using ...

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Water Quality Modeling information

What is water quality modeling?

Water quality modeling is the process of using mathematical and computational techniques to simulate how water pollutants move and change within rivers, lakes, reservoirs, and groundwater systems. These models help scientists and engineers predict the impacts of human activities, such as agriculture or industrial discharge, on water quality. Water quality models are essential tools for managing water resources, developing pollution control strategies, and complying with environmental regulations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a water quality modeler?

To thrive as a Water Quality Modeler, you need a solid background in environmental science or engineering, strong analytical skills, and experience with hydrology and water chemistry. Familiarity with modeling software such as SWAT, HEC-RAS, or QUAL2K, as well as GIS applications and relevant certifications, is typically required. Excellent problem-solving, communication, and teamwork skills help convey complex findings and collaborate on multidisciplinary projects. These competencies are crucial for accurately assessing water systems, informing policy or remediation, and ensuring environmental and public health.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in water quality modeling, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in water quality modeling often encounter challenges such as handling incomplete or inconsistent data, adapting models to diverse environmental conditions, and communicating technical findings to non-specialist stakeholders. Addressing these requires strong data management skills, continuous learning about new modeling techniques, and effective collaboration with field scientists and policymakers. Additionally, keeping up with regulatory changes and advancements in modeling software can help ensure reliable and actionable results.

What is the difference between Water Quality Modeling vs Water Treatment Plant Operator?

AspectWater Quality ModelingWater Treatment Plant Operator
CredentialsEnvironmental or Civil Engineering degree, certifications in modeling softwareHigh school diploma or equivalent, state licensing
Work EnvironmentOffice, laboratory, field data analysisWater treatment facilities, plant operations
Industry UsageDesigning models, analyzing water quality dataOperating treatment equipment, ensuring water safety

Water Quality Modeling focuses on creating simulations to predict water quality changes, while Water Treatment Plant Operators manage daily operations of water treatment facilities. Both roles require understanding water systems but differ in their primary tasks and work settings.

Infographic showing various Water Quality Modeling job openings in Alabama as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 6% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 86% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution.

Visiting Research Scholar - Kalin - Rippel

Auburn University

Auburn University, AL • On-site

$17.30/hr

Full-time

Posted 20 days ago


Auburn University rating

6.2

Company rating: 6.2 out of 10

Based on 44 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

546th of 618 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Overview
Rehiring visiting scholar Mr. Elzon Rippel. The scholar will collaborate on watershed-scale hydrologic and water quality modeling research, with a primary focus on developing a high-resolution SWAT+ model for catchments draining into Mobile Bay. The appointment will leverage the scholar's expertise in SWAT+ while providing opportunities to address the unique hydrologic and ecological challenges of the Mobile-Tensaw Delta. This collaboration builds on a long-standing professional relationship through previous joint research projects, a prior visit to Auburn University, and ongoing Ph.D. co-advising activities.
Responsibilities
  • Collaborate on the development of watershed-scale hydrologic and water quality models to evaluate the impacts of management decisions and land-use change on water resources.
  • Develop a high-spatial-resolution SWAT+ watershed model for catchments draining into Mobile Bay.
  • Apply expertise in SWAT+ modeling to support model development, calibration, and analysis.
  • Assess hydrologic and water quality responses under various land-use and management scenarios.
  • Contribute to research addressing the unique hydrologic and ecological challenges of the Mobile-Tensaw Delta region.
  • Participate in collaborative research activities and knowledge exchange related to watershed modeling and water resource management.
  • Expand and apply modeling approaches within tidal ecosystem environments.

Qualifications
Master's Degree in Civil & Environmental Engineering.
Minimum Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Knowledge of hydrologic and watershed modeling principles, including experience with SWAT+ or similar tools. Strong analytical and research skills, with the ability to work independently and collaboratively in a research environment. Effective written and verbal communication skills.
Contract Type
Limited Term
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  • We're Here for You:Auburn offers generous benefits, educational opportunities, and a culture of support and work/life balance.
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