1

Water Resource Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

$90 - $185/hr

WRA is currently seeking an experienced Water Resources Engineer in our Fairfax, VA office. This position will work with other Virginia regions as well. Responsibilities: * Hydrologic/hydraulic (H/H ...

$140 - $215/hr

WRA is currently seeking an experienced Water Resources Engineer in our Fairfax, VA office. This position will work with other Virginia regions as well. Responsibilities: * Hydrologic/hydraulic (H/H ...

New

Your expertise in local VA infrastructure, leadership, and water resource engineering will be essential to your role. Essential Functions * Develop and deliver industry leading stormwater management ...

Proficient knowledge of water resource engineering principles, practices, process, design/build, and the application to environmental permitting and project work-related issues. * Working knowledge ...

Showing results 41-60

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 23, 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 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 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 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 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 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.

Are water resource engineers in demand?

Water resource engineers are in demand due to increasing concerns over water management, infrastructure development, and environmental sustainability. Employment opportunities are expected to grow as governments and organizations invest in water-related projects and require expertise in hydrology, hydraulics, and environmental regulations.

What is the work of a water resource engineer?

A water resource engineer designs, develops, and manages systems for the collection, treatment, and distribution of water, as well as flood control and water conservation projects. They analyze water data, use modeling tools, and ensure compliance with environmental regulations to support sustainable water management. Strong problem-solving skills and knowledge of hydraulics, hydrology, and environmental engineering are essential in this role.

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

The top searched job categories for Water Resource Engineer jobs in Virginia 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 50% In-person, and 50% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $93,088 per year, or $44.8 per hour.

Civil Engineer - Water Resources

City of Lynchburg, VA

Lynchburg, VA โ€ข On-site

$56K - $107K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago


Job description

Salary: $56,388.80 - $107,244.80 Annually
Location : 525 Taylor Street, Lynchburg, VA
Job Type: Full-time
Job Number: 2026Engineer
Department: Water Resources
Opening Date: 07/14/2026
Description
The City of Lynchburg Department of Water Resources is looking for an individual that is passionate about protecting public health and the environment to join our award-winning team. If you are interested in making a difference in a community then we have a career for you. Our engineers are working on significant and exciting projects to renew aging infrastructure, protect and restore the environment, and ensure that we provide safe, reliable drinking water to the citizens of Lynchburg. The pay is competitive, the benefits are great, and the rewarding career is invaluable.
Responsibilities include managing projects related to water distribution and storage, sanitary sewer collection, water and wastewater treatment plant maintenance and operation, stormwater collection and BMP management, and other projects within the Department of Water Resources.
A licensed PE Civil Engineer is preferred but not required.
Starting salary is dependent on experience and professional licensing held by applicant.
Salary is negotiable depending on qualifications and experience.
Watch: Hear from our team about a career at Lynchburg Water Resources
Check out the competitive benefits offered by the City of Lynchburg!
The City of Lynchburg is an Equal Opportunity Employer and welcomes everyone!
Essential Duties
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Plans, coordinates and prepares designs, oversees plan preparation, prepares estimates and specifications for various types of engineering projects such as utility systems, water and wastewater treatment systems and environmental quality projects.
  • Reviews and coordinates the preparation of plans and specifications for various structural, environmental, civil engineering projects and capital improvement projects.
  • Reviews and provides feedback on private development site plans for water, sewer and stormwater.
  • Reviews the work of construction crews and contractors for compliance with plans and specifications. Provides technical assistance as needed. Reviews and recommends payment of monthly Requests for Payments.
  • Provides technical assistance to key project stakeholders.
  • Visits project sites to gain first-hand knowledge of site conditions.
  • Serves as project manager for various Department of Water Resources projects; responsible for council reports, advertisements, pre-bid conferences, bid-opening, pre-construction meetings and final inspections.
  • Monitors projects during construction, reviews shop drawings, checks for compliance to plans. Reviews ongoing work in field as needed.
  • Responsible for development and management of project budgets and reviews change order requests.
  • On call for emergency response including City-wide disasters such as snow, ice, windstorms, floods, etc.
  • Prepares reports and makes presentations to City Administration and Council Committees.
  • Serves as liaison with regulatory agencies; assures compliance with local, state and federal laws and regulations governing environmental and regulatory issues.
  • Assists in preparation and analysis of operations and capital projects/needs.
  • Receives and responds to internal and external customer inquiries concerning operations and projects.
  • Participates in the development and implementation of strategies to create and enhance a team-based environment in accordance with the organizational vision.
  • Receives and responds to citizen inquiries and complaints, then initiates necessary response, maintenance or repair activities using conflict resolution techniques to coordinate several work groups to resolve issues and follows up and communicates progress until completion.

ADDITIONAL JOB DUTIES
  • Other duties to provide direct or indirect service to the citizens may be assigned.
  • When unusual situations occur and /or the City Manager declares a State of Emergency, all City employees may be required to accept special assignments and perform as needed to ensure appropriate service delivery.

SUPERVISORY DUTIES
Dependent on qualifications of applicant, this employee may oversee the work of other engineering staff.
Minimum Education and Experience Required
QUALIFICATIONS
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE
  • Bachelor's degree (B.S.) from four-year college or university with major work in civil, or environmental engineering and considerable experience in professional engineering design work and construction.
  • Possession of Professional Engineering (PE) license issued by the Commonwealth of Virginia or the ability to obtain within 6 months of employment is preferred but not required if the applicant has the ability to work toward this requirement.
  • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with City officials, other public officials, their representatives and city employees

Additional Requirements
When assigned to the Water Resources Department
  • Thorough and diversified knowledge of engineering principles and practices as related to water treatment and distribution and wastewater collection and treatment,
  • Thorough knowledge of local, state and federal environmental and safe drinking water regulations.
  • Thorough knowledge of operating practices involved in water supply and treatment systems and wastewater collection and treatment systems.
  • Thorough knowledge of the mechanical and hydraulic engineering principles involved in water and wastewater plants.
  • Thorough knowledge of permitting processes and requirements for water and wastewater systems.
  • Possession of valid driver's license issued by the Commonwealth of Virginia with an acceptable driving record that meets the criteria of the City.
  • Relevant background checks must be completed and approved.
  • Must successfully complete IS100 and IS700 National Incident Management (NIMS) training within 90 days of employment. May also be required to complete higher levels of NIMS training as determined appropriate for the position.

The City offers an array of benefits combined with direct salary/wages in order to establish a total compensation package that supports the City's goals of attracting, rewarding, and retaining employees who are both representatives of the community and are also able to deliver exceptional services.
  • Employees in full-time positions are eligible for the following benefits:
    • Medical, dental, and vision coverage
    • Retirement through the Virginia Retirement System (VRS);
      the City's contribution is based on a rate determined bi-annually by the VRS Board and employees pay 5% of base pay (pre-tax) towards their VRS benefit
    • Life insurance at no cost to the employee
    • Optional benefits such as 457 deferred compensation, Roth IRA, flexible spending accounts, etc.
    • Eligibility for parental leave and tuition assistance
    • Paid Time Off
  • Employees in hourly and part-time positions may be eligible for benefits depending on the position

Employees of the City of Lynchburg may also be eligible for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program for federal student loans
Additional information about City benefits can be found on our and in the
01
This position requires a valid driver's license and acceptable driving record history. I certify that I have read the DMV Record Release Notice, and give the City of Lynchburg permission to obtain my Virginia Driving Record.
  • Yes
  • No
  • I do not currently possess a Virginia Driver's License

02
If you answered in the above question that you currently possess a Virginia Driver's License, please provide your License Number.
03
(Current Out-of-State applicants and applicants who have had an Out-of-State Drivers License at any time in the last 3 years): I agree to provide, WITHIN 2 WEEKS OF MY APPLICATION, a copy of my driving record from that state where I am currently licensed or have been licensed within the past 3 years. I will contact Human Resources within 2 weeks if I am unable to obtain my out of state driving record in that time. I understand that my application may not be considered for this position until I submit my out of state driving record.You can email this information to human.resources@lynchburgva.gov, or fax to 434-845-4304 or mail this information to Human Resources, 900 Church Street, Lynchburg VA 24504. Include the name of the position for which you are applying. If you have a driving record less than 30 days old you can upload as an attachment to your application.
  • Agree to provide record within 2 weeks of application date
  • Do not agree (I understand I will no longer be considered for this position if I disagree.)
  • Not applicable (I have not had an Out-of-State Driver's License during the past 3 years.

04
Do you have a professional engineering license in Virginia, or can you get this license within 6 months?
  • Yes
  • No

05
Describe your experience in planning, managing and designing water, sewer, and stormwater utilities
06
Describe your experience in planning, managing and designing capital projects at water treatment and wastewater treatment facilities.
07
Describe your experience in presenting information to City Council, City Administration, and public citizen groups.
08
Describe your experience in working with federal, state, and local regulatory authorities.
09
Describe any past experience in working with contractors to construct a project in accordance with contract plans and specifications. How have you managed construction claims with contractors?
10
Describe how this position fits in with your career goals.
Required Question