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Water Resource Consultant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Water Resource Engineer

Waterbury, VT · On-site

$50K - $80K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

SLR Consulting is seeking an entry- to mid-level Water Resources Engineer to work in its Water Resource Engineering group located in Richmond, Vermont. Richmond is a vibrant historic village that ...

Water Resource Engineer

Norwood, MA · On-site

$89K - $122K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

The ideal candidate for this position is an experienced civil engineering or hydrologist consulting ... Our Water Resources Engineers work on a wide variety of projects including, but not limited to ...

Water Resource Engineer

Waterbury, VT · On-site

$50K - $80K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

SLR Consulting is seeking an entry- to mid-level Water Resources Engineer to work in its Water Resource Engineering group located in Richmond, Vermont. Richmond is a vibrant historic village that ...

Junior Water Resource Engineer

Seattle, WA · On-site

$89K - $122K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Junior Water Resources Engineer Location: Seattle, Tacoma, or Wenatchee, Washington Job Type ... Who Are We? Anchor QEA provides environmental planning, science, and engineering consulting ...

Water Resources Director

Orlando, FL

$73K - $100K/yr

The successful candidate will have a least 15+ years of professional experience, including water resource consulting experience in the energy, transportation, real estate, and/or local government ...

Junior Water Resource Engineer

Seattle, WA

$89K - $122K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Junior Water Resources Engineer Location: Seattle, Tacoma, or Wenatchee, Washington Job Type ... Who Are We? Anchor QEA provides environmental planning, science, and engineering consulting ...

Junior Water Resource Engineer

Seattle, WA · On-site

$89K - $122K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Junior Water Resources Engineer Location: Seattle, Tacoma, or Wenatchee, Washington Job Type ... Who Are We? Anchor QEA provides environmental planning, science, and engineering consulting ...

Water Resources Engineer III/IV

Glenwood Springs, CO · On-site

$89K - $131K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Mentor and guide junior staff on project tasks Job Requirements: * 4+ years of experience in water resource consulting and management including watershed management, water supply planning, floodplain ...

Water Resources Engineer III/IV

Grand Junction, CO · On-site

$89K - $131K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Mentor and guide junior staff on project tasks Job Requirements: * 4+ years of experience in water resource consulting and management including watershed management, water supply planning, floodplain ...

Water Resource Director

Yuma, AZ · On-site +1

$145K - $155K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Water Resource Director - Public Agency Compensation: $145,000 - $155,000/year (based on experience) Schedule: Full-time, Monday - Friday Some evening or weekend meetings may be required Location:

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Water Resource Consultant information

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How much do water resource consultant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for water resource consultant in the United States is $41.55, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $29.33 and $49.52 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a water resource consultant do?

A Water Resource Consultant is a professional who advises organizations, governments, or communities on the management, conservation, and sustainable use of water resources. They assess water availability, quality, and risks, and help develop strategies for water supply, treatment, and environmental protection. Their work often involves conducting research, analyzing data, ensuring compliance with environmental regulations, and designing solutions to address issues such as drought, pollution, or flooding. Water Resource Consultants may also help clients navigate permitting processes and implement best practices for sustainable water management.

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

To thrive as a Water Resource Consultant, you need expertise in hydrology, environmental science, and water management, usually supported by a relevant degree such as environmental engineering or earth sciences. Familiarity with GIS software, hydrological modeling tools, and environmental regulations is typically required, along with certifications like Professional Engineer (PE) or Certified Hydrologist. Strong analytical thinking, communication skills, and project management abilities help consultants work effectively with clients, regulatory agencies, and multidisciplinary teams. These skills ensure sustainable water resource solutions, regulatory compliance, and the successful delivery of projects that protect both the environment and public interests.

What are some common challenges water resource consultants face when working with diverse stakeholders on water management projects?

Water Resource Consultants often collaborate with a wide range of stakeholders, including government agencies, community groups, and private organizations, each with their own priorities and concerns. Balancing these diverse interests, especially when resources are limited or regulations are complex, can be challenging. Successful consultants must employ strong communication and negotiation skills to find mutually beneficial solutions, ensure compliance, and maintain project momentum. Additionally, adapting to evolving environmental policies and integrating new technologies requires continuous learning and flexibility.

What is the difference between Water Resource Consultant vs Hydrologist?

AspectWater Resource ConsultantHydrologist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Environmental Science, Civil Engineering, or related fields; certifications like PE or CPBachelor's or Master's in Hydrology, Geology, or related fields; often requires similar certifications
Work EnvironmentConsulting firms, government agencies, environmental organizations; project-based workResearch institutions, government agencies, academia; fieldwork and data analysis
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by consulting firms and agencies to advise on water management projectsPrimarily in research, academia, and government for studying water systems

While both roles involve water systems and require similar educational backgrounds, Water Resource Consultants focus on advising and managing water projects for clients, whereas Hydrologists primarily conduct research and analyze water data. The roles often overlap in skills and certifications but differ in their primary focus and work environment.

More about Water Resource Consultant jobs

What cities are hiring for Water Resource Consultant jobs?

Cities with the most Water Resource Consultant job openings:

What states have the most Water Resource Consultant jobs?

States with the most job openings for Water Resource Consultant jobs include:

Infographic showing various Water Resource Consultant 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 $86,430 per year, or $41.6 per hour.

Water Resource Specialist

City of Farmington

Farmington, NM • On-site

$69K - $108K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 7 days ago


City Of Farmington (New Mexico) rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

343rd of 848 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

JOB OPENING
CITY OF FARMINGTON
JOB POSITION #124: Water Resource Specialist
(POSITION LEVEL SHALL BE DETERMINED BY SELECTED APPLICANT QUALIFICATIONS)
NUMBER OF VACANCIES: 1
DEPARTMENT: Community Works/Water Administration
WORK LOCATION: West Annex, 805 Municipal Drive (2nd Floor)
TYPE OF POSITION: Regular/Full-Time
PAY CLASS/HIRING RANGE:
Water Resource Specialist "L" $53,347.42 - $82,997.82/Annually
Water Resource Specialist (EIT) "M" $58,018.48 - $90,159.47/Annually
Water Resource Specialist (PE) "O" $69,572.67 - $108,191.62/Annually
DAYS WORKED: Monday - Friday
HOURS WORKED: 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
APPLICATIONS WILL BE RECEIVED: Until Filled
JOB DUTIES
ESSENTIAL DUTIES:
Works under the supervision of the Water/Wastewater CIP Administrator.
Using excellent customer service skills, establishes and maintains effective working relationships with other employees, officials, and all members of the general public.
Operates a motor vehicle to assist in carrying out the business of the department and the City.
Works within the Water and Wastewater Utilities Division of the Public Works Department which is responsible for components of the raw water supply system, including but not limited to ditches, pumping stations, storage reservoirs and water rights.
Responsible for the development, and yearly review & revision, of the City's 40-Year Water Plan. The 40-Year Water Plan inventories and documents water rights and current usage of water resources and develops projections of water demands over a 40-year planning period. This review and revision will align with the strategic goals of the City of Farmington.
Responsible for the development of a Water Conservation Plan for the City of Farmington's Water Utility System. The Water Conservation Plan inventories and documents current conservation policies and practices and identifies and recommends future appropriate conservation measures, policies, and practices along with strategies for implementation of those recommendations.
Administer and maintain the water rights portfolio, ensuring compliance with New Mexico state statutes, regulations, and reporting requirements while protecting the organization's water rights assets.
Performs technical research in regard to capital improvement projects or as requested from other departments.
Assists in preparing plans, designs, and directs construction of public works improvement projects, including streets, sewer, water, storm or irrigation systems & is expected to be able to complete tasks with little to no supervision and will supervise other staff as assigned.
Coordinates and oversees design of projects performed by consulting engineering firms under contract with the City. Works with and directs engineering consultants and City purchasing staff in preparation and award of bids and contracts, including the facilitation of pre-bid and pre-construction meetings.
Responsible for performing inspections, designs, plans, maps, profiles and preparation of specifications under the supervision of the Water/Wastewater CIP Administrator.
Determines applicable codes, regulations, and requirements for assigned projects. Performs technical research and economic analyses and write technical solutions in regard to capital improvement projects as requested from other departments.
Communicates with the Water/Wastewater Administrator to keep them informed of the division's progress and activities and any significant contacts with the public and the media. Communicates with the Public Works Director through the Division Administrator.
Attendance at work is an essential function of this position.
NON-ESSENTIAL DUTIES:
May serve on various employee committees, as required and assigned.
May supervise interns or temporary employees as assigned.
Being New Mexico Certified Flood Plain Manager is a plus.
Reviews plats for compliance with codes and standards and recommends proposed changes to the project engineer.
Reviews building permits for drainage and infrastructure concerns.
The duties listed above are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related or a logical assignment to the position.
QUALIFICATIONS
This position is subject to the City of Farmington's Drug and Alcohol Testing Policy which includes: pre-employment testing, post-accident testing, reasonable suspicion testing, return to duty testing, and follow-up testing.
Extensive background checks required.
Bachelor's degree in civil engineering, water resource engineering, hydrology or closely related field and two (2) years experience in the planning, development, conservation, administration, and management of surface water resource; or a Master's degree in civil engineering, water resource engineering, hydrology or closely related field may be substituted for two years of the experience requirement.
Valid driver's license with acceptable driving record for the past three years.
Comprehensive knowledge of water rights laws and regulations pertaining to surface water resource development, administration and management.
Considerable knowledge of State of New Mexico Environment Department and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency regulations and permit requirements and interstate stream compacts and applicable U.S. and New Mexico Supreme Court decrees.
Knowledge of mathematics (area calculations), hydrology (flow and volume calculations), land surveying principles and techniques (legal descriptions), aerial photography and map interpretation and geographic information systems.
Skill in performing specialized engineering investigations, writing technical reports, and general correspondence.
Skill in performing specialized engineering investigations.
Extensive skills in writing technical reports and general correspondence.
Working knowledge of personal computers, word processing and spreadsheet software, and modeling techniques.
Ability to effectively communicate verbally and in writing with supervisors, employees and general public on matters related to water resource issues.
Ability to establish and maintain working relationships with co-workers, supervisors, other City personnel and the public.
Skill in maintaining positive public relations while responding to realistic concerns under stressful circumstances.
Ability to work under stress and handle stressful situations.
Ability to meet deadlines.
Ability to follow verbal and/or written instructions.
Water Resource Specialist - (L) - (EXEMPT)
At this position level, graduation from a college or university with a bachelor's degree in civil engineering, water resource engineering, hydrology, or a closely related field is required. There this a strong preference for a bachelor's degree from an ABET accredited college or university.
Upon successful completion of passing the fundamental of engineering exam and earning certification from the State of New Mexico as an Engineer-In-Training (EIT) will qualify the employee for the Water Resource Specialist (EIT) position, at the (M) pay grade.
Water Resource Specialist (EIT) - (M) - (EXEMPT)
At this position level, an Engineer-In-Training (EIT) certificate is required. An EIT through the State of New Mexico is strongly preferred. Must acquire EIT certificate through the State of New Mexico within 2 years.
Upon successful completion of passing the professional engineering exam and earning licensure from the State of New Mexico as a Professional Engineer (PE) will qualify the employee for the Water Resource Specialist (PE) position, at the (O) pay grade.
Water Resource Specialist (PE) - (O) - (EXEMPT)
At this level, registration as a licensed Professional Engineer (PE) is required. A PE through the State of New Mexico is strongly preferred. Must acquire PE license through the State of New Mexico within 2 years
TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT USED:
Calculator, telephone, radio, fax and copy machine, computer (desktop and laptop) and applicable software packages, motor vehicles.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is occasionally required to stand and frequently walk; use hands to handle, or operate tools or controls; and reach with hands and arms. The employee is frequently required to sit; talk or hear.
The employee may occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include color vision.
WORK ENVIRONMENT:
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
The work environment is generally in a quiet office setting.
AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER M/F/D/V

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