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Water Resource Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

... to water resource projects. Typical projects involve stormwater management design, stream ... Our engineers are on the cutting edge of innovation, providing unique and challenging solutions ...

Water Resources Engineer III

Glen Allen, VA · On-site

$73K - $100K/yr

Job Title Water Resources Engineer III Job Type Full-Time Location Glen Allen - Glen Allen, VA 23060 US (Primary) Verona - Verona, VA 24482 US Education Bachelor's Degree Company Overview McCormick ...

Civil Engineer - Water Resources

Reston, VA · On-site

$83K - $114K/yr

You will work closely and collaboratively with other industry leading professionals, various jurisdictions, and contractors Qualifications * 6-10 years of water resources engineering experience

Civil Engineer - Water Resources

Reston, VA · On-site

$82K - $112K/yr

You will work closely and collaboratively with other industry leading professionals, various jurisdictions, and contractors Qualifications * 6-10 years of water resources engineering experience

Civil Engineer - Water Resources

Reston, VA

$83K - $114K/yr

You will work closely and collaboratively with other industry leading professionals, various jurisdictions, and contractors * 6-10 years of water resources engineering experience * Experience in ...

Civil Engineer - Water Resources

Reston, VA · On-site

$82K - $112K/yr

You will work closely and collaboratively with other industry leading professionals, various jurisdictions, and contractors Qualifications * 6-10 years of water resources engineering experience

Project Engineer - Water Resources

Roanoke, VA · Hybrid

$77K - $106K/yr

RK&K is currently hiring a Water Resources Engineer to work in our Roanoke, VA office. The Engineer ... Wellness programs and employee resource groups * Career Development * Tuition reimbursement

Stormwater Engineering Consultant

Virginia Beach, VA · On-site

$70K - $96K/yr

Engineer in Training Certification. * Proficient knowledge of water resource engineering principles, practices, process, design/build, and the application to environmental permitting and project work ...

Stormwater Engineering Consultant

Virginia Beach, VA · On-site

$70K - $96K/yr

Engineer in Training Certification. * Proficient knowledge of water resource engineering principles, practices, process, design/build, and the application to environmental permitting and project work ...

Showing results 21-40

Water Resource Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$28.8K

$93.1K

$132.4K

How much do water resource engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for water resource engineer in Virginia is $93,088.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $78,300.00 and $107,100.00 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Water Resource Engineer jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Water Resource Engineer jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Water Resource Engineer jobs in Virginia? For Water Resource Engineer jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Water Resource Engineer jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Water Resource Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Water Resource Engineer job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 94% In-person, and 6% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $93,088 per year, or $44.8 per hour.

Water Resources Project Engineer I

Johnson, Mirmiran & Thompson, Inc.

Richmond, VA • On-site

$75K - $110K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 7 hours ago


Johnson, Mirmiran & Thompson rating

9.8

Company rating: 9.8 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

1st of 446 rated engineering


Job description


Johnson, Mirmiran & Thompson is a dynamic, 100% employee-owned consulting firm with more than 2,800 professionals, providing a full range of multidisciplinary engineering, architecture, information technology, and related services to public agencies and private clients throughout the United States. JMT is currently ranked #45 on Engineering News-Record's list of the Top 500 Design Firms.
Position Summary: JMT is seeking a motivated mid-level Water Resources engineer with 4-10 years of experience to join the Richmond, VA group. The successful candidate will be well-versed across the Water Resources discipline with demonstrated design experience in drainage and stormwater management design, complex hydrologic and hydraulic modeling, and erosion and sediment control design with the supporting capabilities to perform a variety of concurrent design tasks in the civil engineering field.
This position will help grow the Water Resources discipline as part of a multi-discipline engineering office with strong transportation resume and clients. Successful candidates will be expected to effectively perform design duties and grow into a management role for a variety of Water Resource related engineering projects. The candidate must have a strong understanding of Virginia stormwater regulations, experience in stormwater and drainage design for Virginia transportation projects, manage and prioritize their time all while demonstrating a willingness to work in a group setting with a varying mix of experience levels.
This candidate will be responsible for engineering design using knowledge of general engineering principles and practices to interpret, organize, execute, and coordinate assignments with limited supervision. Acts as a technical mentor to less experienced engineers.
Compensation for this position is $75,000 - $110,000, commensurate with experience, education and certifications. The provided range is a good faith estimate based on the requirements described within the job description. We notice that we receive a wide variety of applicants and recognize that the person selected may be less experienced or more experienced. If so, the actual salary range may vary from the estimate provided.
Essential Functions and Responsibilities
  • Develop drainage design and stormwater management design in accordance with client specifications and guidelines, using current design software
  • Analyze survey reports, maps, drawings, aerial photography and other topographical or geological data to plan projects
  • Conduct watershed studies and hydrologic and hydraulic analysis
  • Assist in the preparation of Contract Documents including Scopes, Fees, Plans, Reports, Specifications and Cost Estimates
  • Expected to perform daily duties in a collaborative environment with engineers across other disciplines
  • Mentor younger engineers
  • Coordination with contractors, outside consultants, government agencies, and JMT staff from multiple locations and technical disciplines
  • Assist in construction phase service requests from the client or contractor

Nonessential Functions and Responsibilities
  • Perform other related duties as assigned

Required Skills
  • Knowledge and design experience in linear drainage, stormwater management and erosion and sediment control design, complex modeling across several programs and site plan developments for state municipalities
  • Knowledge of complex Hydrologic and Hydraulic modeling
  • Proficiency in Microstation, OpenRoads Designer, HEC-RAS, and PCSWMM
  • Ability to progress designs with multiple concurrent projects
  • Ability to provide quality deliverables while working on concurrent projects
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills, which includes Microsoft Office products
  • Demonstrate time management while providing a quality deliverable within budget
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills

Required Experience
  • Bachelor's degree in Civil or Environmental engineering with an emphasis in Water Resources from an ABET accredited engineering program
  • 4-9 years of experience in Water Resources engineering
  • Professional Engineer licensed in the State of Virginia or ability to obtain licensure within 6 months of hire
  • Hydrologic Modeling experience using TR-55 / TR20 and Rational Methodologies
  • Hydraulic Modeling experience using HEC-RAS, HY-8, HydroCAD or other applicable modeling software
  • Drainage and Stormwater Management design experience
  • Erosion and Sediment Control design experience
  • Experience working with clients at the local and state levels

Preferred Experience
  • Virginia DEQ certified stormwater management combined administrator
  • Familiarity with VDOT and Locally Administered Project (LAP) requirements and protocols
  • Experience with GIS

Working Conditions
Work is performed within a general office environment 60% of the time. Work is generally sedentary in nature but may require occasional standing and walking. Lighting and temperature are adequate and there are no hazardous or unpleasant conditions caused by noise, dust, etc. within the office environment.
Field work is required on occasion where work may be conducted outside in heat/cold, wet/humid, and dry/arid conditions. Some lifting (up to 25lbs) may be required as needed.
Benefits
JMT offers outstanding opportunities for career and professional growth. We are 100% employee-owned (ESOP) and offer outstanding health care coverage and other benefits, including:
  • Affordable Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance
  • Company paid Life and Disability Insurance
  • Paid Time Off
  • Paid Holidays
  • Paid Caregiver Leave Program
  • 401K Retirement Plan (Traditional and Roth options)
  • Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)
  • Career Development Programs
  • And more...
  • Benefits JMT

Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected by state or federal law.

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