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Water Resource Engineer Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

HDR

Water Resources Engineer - Fisheries

Seattle, WA

$89K - $122K/yr

HDR is in search of a Water Resources Engineer to join our specialized Fisheries Ecohydraulics practice. In this role you will be supporting fisheries projects ranging from fish passage, water ...

HDR

Water Resources Engineer - Fisheries

Seattle, WA · On-site

$89K - $122K/yr

HDR is in search of a Water Resources Engineer to join our specialized Fisheries Ecohydraulics practice. In this role you will be supporting fisheries projects ranging from fish passage, water ...

DOWL

Water Resources Project Engineer 2

Bellevue, WA · On-site

$98K - $147K/hr

Summary The Water Resources Project Engineer 2 performs advanced levels of planning, analysis, and ... Market Sector Software (water resource, GIS, and CAD software) - Advanced Technical Expertise

DOWL

Water Resources Project Engineer 2

Bellevue, WA · On-site

$98K - $147K/yr

Summary The Water Resources Project Engineer 2 performs advanced levels of planning, analysis, and ... Market Sector Software (water resource, GIS, and CAD software) - Advanced Technical Expertise

Dowl, Llc

Water Resources Project Engineer 2

Bellevue, WA · On-site

$98.65 - $147.97/hr

Summary The Water Resources Project Engineer 2 performs advanced levels of planning, analysis, and ... Market Sector Software (water resource, GIS, and CAD software) - Advanced Technical Expertise

AECOM

Principal Water Resources Engineer

Seattle, WA · On-site

AECOM is seeking a Principal Water Resources Engineer located in Portland or Seattle to lead high-quality project delivery and support the continued growth of our Pacific Northwest water resources ...

AECOM

Principal Water Resources Engineer

Seattle, WA · On-site

AECOM is seeking a Principal Water Resources Engineer located in Portland or Seattle to lead high-quality project delivery and support the continued growth of our Pacific Northwest water resources ...

Otak, Inc.

Water Resources Project Manager

Redmond, WA · On-site

$115 - $155/hr

Otak scientists and engineers are highly educated and experienced in fields including ecology, wetland science, water quality, water resources, fluvial geomorphology, botany, aquatic biology, and ...

OTAK INC

Water Resources Project Manager

Everett, WA · Hybrid

$115K - $155K/yr

Otak scientists and engineers are highly educated and experienced in the fields of ecology, wetland science, water quality, water resources, fluvial geomorphology, botany, aquatic biology, and ...

Otak, Inc.

Water Resources Project Manager

Redmond, WA · On-site

$115K - $155K/yr

Otak scientists and engineers are highly educated and experienced in the fields of ecology, wetland science, water quality, water resources, fluvial geomorphology, botany, aquatic biology, and ...

OTAK INC

Water Resources Project Manager

Redmond, WA · Hybrid

$115K - $155K/yr

Otak scientists and engineers are highly educated and experienced in the fields of ecology, wetland science, water quality, water resources, fluvial geomorphology, botany, aquatic biology, and ...

OTAK INC

Water Resources Project Manager

Everett, WA · Hybrid

$115K - $155K/yr

Otak scientists and engineers are highly educated and experienced in the fields of ecology, wetland science, water quality, water resources, fluvial geomorphology, botany, aquatic biology, and ...

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All JobsWater Resource Engineer JobsWater Resource Engineer Jobs in Seattle, WA

Water Resource Engineer information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$33K

$106.9K

$151.9K

How much do water resource engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for water resource engineer in Seattle, WA is $106,853.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $89,900.00 and $122,900.00 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.
More about Water Resource Engineer jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Water Resource Engineer jobs in Seattle, WA?

The most popular types of Water Resource Engineer jobs in Seattle, WA are:

What are popular job titles related to Water Resource Engineer jobs in Seattle, WA?

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

What job categories do people searching Water Resource Engineer jobs in Seattle, WA look for?

The top searched job categories for Water Resource Engineer jobs in Seattle, WA are:

What cities near Seattle, WA are hiring for Water Resource Engineer jobs?

Cities near Seattle, WA with the most Water Resource Engineer job openings:

Water Resource Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Water Resource Engineer job openings in Seattle, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $106,853 per year, or $51.4 per hour.

Water Resources Engineer - Fisheries

HDR

Seattle, WA

$89K - $122K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 18 days ago

HDR rating

9.3

Company rating: 9.3 out of 10

Based on 60 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

26th of 452 rated engineering

Job description

At HDR, our employee-owners are fully engaged in creating a welcoming environment where each of us is valued and respected, a place where everyone is empowered to bring their authentic selves and novel ideas to work every day. As we foster a culture of inclusion throughout our company and within our communities, we constantly ask ourselves: What is our impact on the world?
Watch Our Story:' https://www.hdrinc.com/our-story'
Each and every role throughout our organization makes a difference in our ability to change the world for the better. Read further to learn how you could help make great things possible not only in your community, but around the world.

HDR is in search of a Water Resources Engineer to join our specialized Fisheries Ecohydraulics practice. In this role you will be supporting fisheries projects ranging from fish passage, water crossings, stream restoration, fish screening and structures. HDR has an amazing fisheries group with a long-standing history of technical excellence. We are looking for an enthusiastic candidate who is looking to grow their knowledge, as well as excited to mentor and train junior staff. We'll count on you to:

Provide project engineering and task management
Collect, assimilate, and present data in reports, memos, and public forums
Conduct field assessments of streams, wetlands, and estuaries
Produce design calculations and clearly document design decisions in technical reports,
Produce design plans, specifications, and engineering cost estimates.
Work independently in addition to planning, organizing and assisting groups of medium to large teams of professionals
and technicians
Conduct complex hydraulic and hydrologic modeling
Evaluate sediment mobility and bridge scour
Develop habitat complexity designs, including LWM layout and details. Evaluate stability of LWM structures
Conduct floodplain delineation studies in accordance with FEMA and local floodplain guidelines and regulation

Perform other duties as needed

Preferred Qualifications
  • MS degree
  • A minimum of 3 years experience in water resources engineering projects
  • Experience with HEC-1, HEC-HMS, HEC-RAS, GEO-RAS, storm drain system analysis
Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering or equivalent field
  • Previous experience in water resources engineering projects
  • Requires professional engineering license recognized by the licensing board for the location of the position offered. Example: Professional Engineer (PE or P.Eng) license.
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills
  • An attitude and commitment to being an active participant of our employee-owned culture is a must

What We Believe
HDR is our company. Together, we build on each other's life experiences and perspectives to make great things possible every day. This shapes our collaborative culture, encourages organizational trust and connects us closer to the clients and communities we serve.
Our Commitment
As employee owners, we all have a role in creating an inclusive environment where each of us is welcomed, valued, respected and empowered to bring our authentic selves to work every day.
Our eight Employee Network Groups (Asian Pacific, Black, Hispanic/Latino(a), LGBTQ+, People with Disabilities, Veterans, Women, Young Professionals) help create a sense of belonging and foster a supportive environment where everyone is empowered to engage and contribute. Each group has an executive sponsor and is open to all employees.

What HDR employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

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About HDR

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At HDR, we specialize in engineering, architecture, environmental and construction services. While we are most well-known for adding beauty and structure to communities through high-performance buildings and smart infrastructure, we provide much more than that. We create an unshakable foundation for progress because our multidisciplinary teams also include scientists, economists, builders, analysts and artists.

Industry

Specialized design services

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Omaha, NE, US

Year founded

1917

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