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Water Resource Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Water Resource Engineer

Norwood, MA · On-site

$89K - $122K/yr

Our Water Resources Engineers work on a wide variety of projects including, but not limited to, rainfall/runoff analyses, climate change projections and vulnerability assessment to support climate ...

Water Resource Engineer

Lander, WY · On-site

$71K - $97K/yr

Job Title Water Resource Engineer Job Type Full-time Location Lander, WY US Laramie, WY US (Primary) Category Engineering Minimum Education Required Bachelor's Degree Career Level Staff Job Summary:

Junior Water Resource Engineer

Seattle, WA · On-site

$89K - $122K/yr

Junior Water Resources Engineer Location: Seattle, Tacoma, or Wenatchee, Washington Job Type: Regular Full-time Whats the Opportunity? Anchor QEA is seeking a water resources engineer to help expand ...

Junior Water Resource Engineer

Seattle, WA · On-site

$89K - $122K/yr

Junior Water Resources Engineer Location: Seattle, Tacoma, or Wenatchee, Washington Job Type: Regular Full-time What's the Opportunity? Anchor QEA is seeking a water resources engineer to help expand ...

Junior Water Resource Engineer

Seattle, WA · On-site +1

$89K - $122K/yr

Junior Water Resources Engineer Location: Seattle, Tacoma, or Wenatchee, Washington Job Type: Regular Full-time What's the Opportunity? Anchor QEA is seeking a water resources engineer to help expand ...

Water Resource Engineer

Lakeland, FL

$73K - $100K/yr

Overview / Responsibilities Wood is currently recruiting a Water Resource Engineer with 5+ years of experience. The position is available in any of our Florida offices ( Tampa , Lakeland, Gainesville ...

Water Resource Engineer

Jacksonville, FL

$73K - $100K/yr

Overview / Responsibilities Wood is currently recruiting a Water Resource Engineer with 5+ years of experience. The position is available in any of our Florida offices ( Tampa , Lakeland, Gainesville ...

Water Resource Engineer

Gainesville, FL

$71K - $97K/yr

Overview / Responsibilities Wood is currently recruiting a Water Resource Engineer with 5+ years of experience. The position is available in any of our Florida offices ( Tampa , Lakeland, Gainesville ...

Water Resource Engineer

Pensacola, FL

$74K - $102K/yr

Overview / Responsibilities Wood is currently recruiting a Water Resource Engineer with 5+ years of experience. The position is available in any of our Florida offices ( Tampa , Lakeland, Gainesville ...

Water Resource Engineer

West Palm Beach, FL

$76K - $104K/yr

Overview / Responsibilities Wood is currently recruiting a Water Resource Engineer with 5+ years of experience. The position is available in any of our Florida offices ( Tampa , Lakeland, Gainesville ...

Water Resource Engineer

Tallahassee, FL

$75K - $102K/yr

Overview / Responsibilities Wood is currently recruiting a Water Resource Engineer with 5+ years of experience. The position is available in any of our Florida offices ( Tampa , Lakeland, Gainesville ...

Water Resource Engineer

Tampa, FL

$74K - $102K/yr

Overview / Responsibilities Wood is currently recruiting a Water Resource Engineer with 5+ years of experience. The position is available in any of our Florida offices ( Tampa , Lakeland, Gainesville ...

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Water Resource Engineer information

See salary details

$29K

$93.9K

$133.5K

How much do water resource engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for water resource engineer in the United States is $93,893.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $79,000.00 and $108,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What engineers make $500,000 a year?

Highly experienced engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can earn $500,000 or more annually, often through a combination of base salary, bonuses, and stock options. These roles typically require advanced skills, extensive experience, and often involve leadership or executive responsibilities.

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

Water Resource Engineers need a solid background in civil or environmental engineering, hydrology, and water management, usually supported by a relevant engineering degree and Professional Engineer (PE) licensure. Familiarity with GIS software, hydrological modeling tools like HEC-RAS or SWMM, and CAD systems is typically required. Strong problem-solving, communication, and project management skills help engineers collaborate with stakeholders and address complex water-related challenges. These competencies ensure effective design, implementation, and sustainability of water resource projects that protect communities and the environment.

What are some typical collaborative projects a Water Resource Engineer might work on with other professionals?

Water Resource Engineers frequently collaborate with a multidisciplinary team, including environmental scientists, civil engineers, urban planners, and government agencies. Common projects involve designing flood control systems, developing sustainable water supply strategies, or restoring wetlands. These projects require effective communication and coordination to balance technical requirements, regulatory compliance, and environmental considerations. Working closely with stakeholders ensures that solutions are practical, sustainable, and aligned with community needs.

What does a Water Resource Engineer do?

A Water Resource Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and managing systems and structures that control water resources. This includes projects such as water treatment facilities, dams, flood control systems, irrigation networks, and stormwater management. They analyze data on water availability, quality, and distribution to develop sustainable and efficient solutions. Their work helps ensure safe water supply, proper wastewater disposal, and protection against water-related hazards. Water Resource Engineers often collaborate with other engineers, government agencies, and environmental organizations.

What engineers make $200,000 a year?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering often earn $200,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and relevant certifications. Leadership roles like engineering managers or principal engineers in high-demand industries can also reach or exceed this salary level.

What is the difference between Water Resource Engineer vs Civil Engineer?

AspectWater Resource EngineerCivil Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Civil, Environmental, or Water Resources Engineering; Professional Engineer (PE) license often preferredBachelor's in Civil Engineering; PE license common for licensed civil engineers
Work EnvironmentDesigning water systems, flood control, water treatment projects, often in environmental or water-focused firmsBroad construction projects including roads, bridges, water systems, and infrastructure
Industry UsageSpecialized in water-related projects within environmental, municipal, or consulting firmsGeneral construction and infrastructure projects across various sectors

Water Resource Engineers focus specifically on water systems, flood management, and water treatment, while Civil Engineers have a broader scope including various infrastructure projects. Both roles require similar credentials and often work in overlapping environments, but their project focus differs significantly.

What is the work of a water resources engineer?

A water resources engineer designs, develops, and manages systems for water supply, flood control, and environmental protection. They analyze water data, use modeling tools, and ensure compliance with regulations to solve water-related challenges. The role often requires knowledge of hydraulics, hydrology, and environmental engineering principles.

What Is a Water Resource Engineer?

A water resource engineer is a civil engineer who oversees the construction and implementation of new equipment and systems for a water plant. They are responsible for plant management, new equipment design and maintenance of the various systems that clean and treat our water supplies. They are in charge of virtually every aspect of how a water resource plant functions and they also manage natural resources like underground springs or a well. Their job responsibilities also include ensuring compliance with government regulations and budget management. Additional skills necessary for success include planning, interpersonal and communication skills.

Is water resources engineering a good career?

Water resources engineering is a stable and growing field that involves designing and managing systems for water supply, flood control, and environmental protection. It often requires knowledge of hydraulics, environmental science, and relevant certifications, offering opportunities in government, consulting, and research sectors.
What cities are hiring for Water Resource Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Water Resource Engineer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Water Resource Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Water Resource Engineer jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for Water Resource Engineer jobs? The top employers for Water Resource Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Water Resource Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Water Resource Engineer jobs include:
Infographic showing various Water Resource Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $93,893 per year, or $45.1 per hour.
Water Resource Engineer

Water Resource Engineer

GZA GeoEnvironmental

Norwood, MA • On-site

$89K - $122K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Job Title:
Project Manager/Technical Specialist (Water Resources)
Office:
Metro-Boston
GZA is growing its water resources practice, primarily in the areas of riverine and coastal hydrology and hydraulics, extreme flooding evaluation, natural hazard risk management, and climate change adaption and resilience, and dams/levee assessment and design. We are currently seeking a Project Manager (PM) or Technical Specialist (TS) to Senior Project Manager (SPM) or Senior Technical Specialist (STS) Level Civil/Water Resources Engineer for our practice based in the Norwood, Massachusetts office. Candidates closer to GZA's other offices including Providence, New York City, and metro Detroit will also be considered (please visit gza.com/office-locations for other office locations).
The ideal candidate for this position is an experienced civil engineering or hydrologist consulting professional with hydrologic and hydraulic expertise, civil engineering design skills, technical analytical skills, and experience with Geographic Information Systems (GIS). Experience with project management, construction phase engineering experience and regulatory knowledge in the Northeast is also advantageous. The qualified candidate must have strong leadership skill with the potential for building business development skill to grow our ability to generate project leads and build and sustain client relationships. The position offers great potential for professional growth in an exciting working environment and the opportunity to apply the latest technology to water resources and dam/levee-related projects.
Our Water Resources Engineers work on a wide variety of projects including, but not limited to, rainfall/runoff analyses, climate change projections and vulnerability assessment to support climate resilience plans and projects, flood control designs, two-dimensional hydrologic, hydraulic, and hydrodynamic computer modeling, hydraulic structure design including hydropower restorations, stormwater analysis, dam/levee safety engineering, dam removal and ecological restoration, and related environmental permitting support. A sound knowledge of engineering principles relating to design and construction of civil projects, stormwater systems, dams, and other water infrastructure, is essential for this position. The successful candidate must have a strong civil background to support planning, design, and construction management activities for a variety of projects.
This is an in-person position that requires direct interaction with clients and the ability to manage and mentor GZA existing staff of project-level engineers. You will also work closely with GZA's Hydrology & Hydraulics and Climate Change Practice Area Lead in training staff and developing water resource services in our offices in the greater Boston area, the mid-Atlantic, and Great Lakes regions.
Key Duties:
  • Working with GZA's Water team in a collaborative manner to successfully complete projects
  • Conducting/reviewing hydrologic/hydraulic engineering technical analyses/calculations
  • Providing technical input for permit application packages
  • Communicating effectively and efficiently with clients and team members
  • Preparing reports with Principal guidance and review

Other Duties:
  • Developing design drawings and technical specifications
  • Overseeing and documenting civil construction projects
  • Project management duties including schedule and budget tracking
  • Developing health and safety plans and managing implementation and compliance with GZA Health and Safety programs, policies, and procedures during any on-site activities associated with water resources projects

Position Requirements:
  • B.S. in Civil Engineering, Environmental Science, Water Resources Engineering or related field of practice is required. Master's Degree is a plus.
  • Professional Engineer (PE) license in MA is preferred with the ability to obtain PE in CT, NY, and RI with reciprocity (or the ability to obtain within two years). Alternate credentials will be considered (e.g., Professional Hydrologist or Certified Floodplain Manager).
  • A minimum of 6-10 years of experience in surface water hydrologic and hydraulic modeling with specific experience using HEC-RAS 2D.
  • Knowledge of water control structure designs and permitting.
  • Direct experience completing projects with public sector/municipal agencies in the New England Region is highly preferred.
  • Experience with design and development of engineering drawings, technical specifications, cost estimating and other related bidding documents is advantageous.
  • Strong interpersonal skills and ability to speak publicly.
  • Ability to think critically and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
  • Solid project financial management skills; knowledge of production support systems and personal computer proficiency are all required competencies.
  • Experience in providing technical and project leadership to staff-level or junior engineers.
  • A strong background using various hydrologic and hydraulic modeling software (i.e. HEC-HMS, HEC-RAS, PCSWMM, HydroCAD, StormCAD, HY-8/CulvertMaster) is required.
  • Proven experience with and directing staff with ArcGIS is considered essential for this position.

About our GZA Metro-Boston (Norwood, MA) Office:
  • Exciting and friendly work environment
  • Professional development and enrichment
  • Leadership and technical training
  • Professional society involvement and sponsorship
  • Commitment to technical excellence and client relationships
  • Collaborative and cooperative work community
  • Advancement and ownership opportunities
  • Competitive benefits package, including medical, dental, vision and 401K retirement plan

The base salary for this position may range between $100,000.00 to $150,000.00. The actual base salary and total compensation will depend on many factors, including location, candidate experience, education, professional licensure, and other qualifications.
GZA is an employee-owned multidisciplinary engineering consulting firm with a history of 60 years of providing innovative engineering solutions to improve the natural and built environment. We are an ENR Top 500 Design firm focused on geotechnical, environmental, water, ecological, and construction management services. With a staff of interrelated professionals dedicated to providing high-level expertise on complex projects above, below and at ground-level, GZA's experts provide seamless integration across practice areas, client type, and location.
GZA values diversity and is committed to providing an accepting and inclusive work environment for all employees. We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer and we welcome applicants from all backgrounds. GZA does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, physical or mental disability, citizenship status, marital or veteran status, age, or other protected status.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.