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Water Resource Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

GHD Group

Senior Water Resource Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

The Integrated Water Management Group is seeking a Senior Water Resources Engineer to support water related projects associated with transportation, active transportation, resilience, and municipal ...

GHD

Senior Water Resource Engineer

San Diego, CA · Hybrid

The Integrated Water Management Group is seeking a Senior Water Resources Engineer to support water related projects associated with transportation, active transportation, resilience, and municipal ...

HDR

Water Resources Engineer

Sacramento, CA

$84K - $115K/yr

We believe water is more than a resource, it's a shared responsibility. As part of our Water ... HDR is looking for a water resources engineer to join our Water Resources team in Sacramento, CA.

Lotus Water

WATER RESOURCES ENGINEER II

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$93K - $127K/yr

Additionally, candidates should have a good understanding of basic hydrology and water resource ... Engineer in Training (EIT) certification * Proficient in Microsoft Office software (e.g. Word ...

Lotus Water

WATER RESOURCES ENGINEER II

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$93K - $127K/yr

Additionally, candidates should have a good understanding of basic hydrology and water resource ... Engineer in Training (EIT) certification * Proficient in Microsoft Office software (e.g. Word ...

Stantec

Water Resources EIT

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$84K - $115K/yr

Coordinate with project managers, project engineers, other resource specialists (biologists ... Water resources planning and decision-support processes, including stakeholder engagement

HDR

Water Resources Engineer

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$84K - $115K/yr

We believe water is more than a resource, it's a shared responsibility. As part of our Water ... HDR is looking for a water resources engineer to join our Water Resources team in Sacramento, CA.

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Water Resource Engineer information

See California salary details

$28.6K

$92.7K

$131.8K

How much do water resource engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for water resource engineer in California is $92,664.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $78,000.00 and $106,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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.

More about Water Resource Engineer jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Water Resource Engineer jobs in California?

The most popular types of Water Resource Engineer jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Water Resource Engineer jobs in California?

For Water Resource Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Water Resource Engineer jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Water Resource Engineer jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Water Resource Engineer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Water Resource Engineer job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Water Resource Engineer jobs in CA?

For Water Resource Engineer jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Water Resource Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Water Resource Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $92,664 per year, or $44.5 per hour.

Senior Water Resource Engineer

GHD Group

San Diego, CA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago

Job description


The importance of water to the health of our world can't be overstated.
As the frequency and intensity of floods, droughts and storms increases, the water industry must continue to build resiliency and lead from the front.
Together with our clients, we are thinking and doing things differently to help pre-empt and prepare for what's next. Be a part of this dynamic and committed team of diverse water specialists and inspire change for your community.
You'll be able to apply our powerful global network of skills and decades of experience to create positive water outcomes that respect nature and nurture communities.
Who are we looking for?
The Integrated Water Management Group is seeking a Senior Water Resources Engineer to support water related projects associated with transportation, active transportation, resilience, and municipal infrastructure throughout Southern California. This position will serve as a technical lead for hydrology, hydraulics, stormwater quality, and drainage design on multidisciplinary projects including roadways, complete streets, trails, bridges, pump stations, coastal resiliency, and flood mitigation improvements.
This position is located in San Diego, CA.
Our Hybrid Work Model: Be part of the dynamic culture! Our workplace thrives on a hybrid model, combining in-office collaboration and flexibility. Join us in the office three days a week to contribute, connect and excel in our vibrant environment.
The ideal candidate brings a strong understanding of Southern California stormwater regulations, MS4 permit compliance, water quality requirements, hydraulic modeling, and transportation drainage design. This individual will work closely with roadway, civil, coastal, environmental, and structural engineers to develop innovative, resilient, and permit-compliant infrastructure solutions.
Primary Responsibilities include but are not limited to:
  • Serve as technical/discipline lead for hydrologic, hydraulic, stormwater quality, and drainage design for our multi-disciplined infrastructure projects in the San Diego and greater Southern California region.
  • Develop scopes, budgets, schedules, and staffing plans for hydraulic and stormwater engineering tasks.
  • Lead development of drainage studies, H&H reports, SWQMPs, water quality technical memoranda, flood studies, and resiliency assessments.
  • Attend scheduled Project Management meetings to discuss project resource needs and conflicts, unbilled and aging accounts receivables, and proposal activity
  • Provide guidance and QA/QC on all engineering design, calculations, design briefs and technical reports for municipal infrastructure, master plans, environmental assessments, and detailed design projects
  • Provide hands-on technical guidance to engineers and technical staff in delivering ongoing municipal water and wastewater projects
  • Mentorship of project engineers and designers in the development of their engineering and design skills
  • Build and maintain relationships with local agencies throughout Southern California, including cities, counties, Caltrans, transportation agencies, flood control agencies, and resource agencies.
  • Support proposals, client development, and strategic growth of GHD's transportation and resiliency practice.

The ideal candidate would have the following experience/skills:
  • Proven experience preparing complex engineering analysis and planning including hydraulic analysis and stormwater management design
  • Experience in developing project scope, schedule, and budget as it relates to hydraulic portions of the project scope.
  • Strong technical writing skills and experience developing drainage studies, hydraulic reports, basis of design reports, and technical memoranda.
  • Must be able to work on multiple assignments simultaneously; and have strong organizational, problem solving, communication, interpersonal, and presentation skills
  • Expertise using Civil 3D and hydraulic modeling software such as PCSWMM, HEC-RAS, HydroCAD, FlowMaster, XP-SWMM, or equivalent.
  • Stormwater BMP evaluation, sizing, and design.
  • Experience leading a small team of engineers or technical staff
  • Experience with local municipal clients in San Diego and Southern California

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
  • Bachelor of Science Degree in Engineering (Civil, Environmental, or similar)
  • Registered Civil Professional Engineer in the State of California preferred, if not currently held need to achieve within 1 year of hire.
  • Minimum 7 years of civil engineering experience with a focus on design and construction of water and wastewater infrastructure projects, preferably within multidisciplinary or transportation focused projects

As a multicultural organization, we encourage individual achievement and recognize the strength of a diverse workforce. GHD is an equal opportunity employer. We provide equal employment opportunities to all qualified employees and applicants without regard to race, creed, religion, national origin, citizenship, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, marital status or veteran status.
Salary Range $116,000-$175,000 based on experience
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