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Water Resource Engineer Jobs in Santa Rosa, CA (NOW HIRING)

We're seeking a Project Manager with expertise in civil engineering Water Resources Infrastructures to help lead our long-standing presence in the Northern Bay Area. This role is ideal for someone ...

We're seeking a Project Manager with expertise in civil engineering Water Resources Infrastructures to help lead our long-standing presence in the Northern Bay Area. This role is ideal for someone ...

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Water Resource Engineer information

See Santa Rosa, CA salary details

$31.7K

$102.7K

$146K

How much do water resource engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for water resource engineer in Santa Rosa, CA is $102,656.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $86,400.00 and $118,100.00 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 popular job titles related to Water Resource Engineer jobs in Santa Rosa, CA?

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

What job categories do people searching Water Resource Engineer jobs in Santa Rosa, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Water Resource Engineer jobs in Santa Rosa, CA are:

What cities near Santa Rosa, CA are hiring for Water Resource Engineer jobs?

Cities near Santa Rosa, CA with the most Water Resource Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Water Resource Engineer job openings in Santa Rosa, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $102,656 per year, or $49.4 per hour.

Project Manager - Water Resources, Stormwater

BKF

Santa Rosa, CA โ€ข Hybrid

$130K - $180K/yr

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 22 days ago


Job description

BKF is a multi-service infrastructure consulting firm providing civil engineering and surveying services across California, the Pacific Northwest, and beyond. With offices throughout California and the Portland area, BKF has served transportation, water resources, land development, government, and federal clients for over 110 years.

At BKF, you'll find a unique opportunity to grow your career with intention. Our culture values professional autonomy, innovation, and meaningful collaboration across offices. We are proud to be recognized with the Great Place to Work certification for the second year in a row.

We are seeking a Stormwater Project Manager with expertise in Water Resources and Civil Infrastructure to strengthen our California presence. Ideal candidates have 10-15 years of experience, a California P.E. license, and a passion for leading projects and fostering client relationships. This role collaborates across BKF teams to deliver water infrastructure projects while anchoring our regional water resources practice.

Responsibilities

  • Ability to lead design and project management efforts across a diverse portfolio of stormwater infrastructure projects, including master planning, interior drainage studies, urban flood management, storm drain systems, channel improvements, and green infrastructure programs.
  • Readiness to leverage internal talent for project delivery while scaling a local network
  • Familiarity with permitting processes, technical studies, and client coordination
  • Strong commitment to quality, innovation, and continuous improvement in storm water infrastructure engineering
  • Demonstrated managerial aspirations and leadership qualities to potentially foster a local team and mentor junior staff
  • Ability to quickly become familiar with BKF's service offerings and cross-sell all services to regional clients
  • Ability to build your own team with a strong focus on creating visibility in Northern California with clients and business partners

Requirements

  • Based in California to enhance existing BKF local staff and client relationships and establish a regional footprint
  • Bachelor's degree in Civil or Environmental Engineering or related field
  • California Professional Engineer (P.E.) license is required
  • 10 to 15 years of experience in leading planning and design of storm water and flood control capital improvement projects
  • Proficient in hydrologic and hydraulic modeling software such as InfoWorks ICM, HEC-RES, and XPSWMM
  • Excellent interpersonal and communication skills to engage with new, existing clients, internal teams, and stakeholders
  • Demonstrated success in building client relationships and strategic positioning for project opportunities
  • Entrepreneurial drive to pursue new water resource projects and establish a local presence, with the potential to grow and lead a team
  • Ability to work both independently and collaboratively to pursue and win water infrastructure projects in Northern California

Physical Demands: Must be able to regularly talk, hear and operate a computer, keyboard and mouse and occasionally lift, pull/push and carry up to 20 pounds with accommodations.

Work Conditions: Exposure to constant or intermittent sounds at a low or moderate level consistent with an office setting. Exposure to high-stress, fast-paced, deadline-oriented environment. Travel to other BKF locations and client sites may be required.

Benefits

  • The typical base salary range for this position is $130,000.00 - $180,000.00, annualized depending upon skills, experience, education, and geographical location. This is a salary position paid biweekly.
  • Competitive salaries, end of year bonuses, profit sharing, and 401k.
  • Generous paid time off packages
  • 9 Paid Holidays.
  • Flexible schedules.
  • Education reimbursement, Paid annual dues for professional and societal organizations.
  • BKF offers competitive and award-winning benefits and perks. To learn more click here.

BKF Engineers provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

BKF Engineers does not accept unsolicited resumes from recruiters or employment agencies. In the event a recruiter or agency submits a resume or candidate without a previously signed agreement and a specific solicitation for the position or other approved engagement request for the position with BKF Engineers, BKF Engineers reserves the right to pursue and hire those candidate(s) without any financial obligation to the recruiter or agency. Any unsolicited submittals are done at the risk of the recruiter.

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