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Water Resource Engineer Jobs in Silver Spring, MD

Water Resources Engineer

Vienna, VA

$79K - $108K/yr

In the role of Water Resources Engineer, we'll count on you to: * Provide project engineering and task management, conduct difficult to complex hydraulic and hydrologic modeling; conduct stormwater ...

Lead Water Resources Engineer

Fairfax, VA ยท On-site

$143.43 - $163.93/hr

Senior Water Resources Engineer**STV is seeking a Lead Water Resources Engineer (H&H / Drainage / Stormwater Engineer) to support transportation infrastructure projects across Virginia. This role is ...

Water Resources Engineer

Vienna, VA ยท On-site

$79K - $108K/yr

In the role of Water Resources Engineer, we'll count on you to: * Provide project engineering and task management, conduct difficult to complex hydraulic and hydrologic modeling; conduct stormwater ...

Engineer I - Water Resources

Fairfax, VA ยท On-site

$80K - $110K/yr

RK&K is currently hiring an Engineer to join our growing Water Resources team in Fairfax, VA. This ... Proactively deliver a wide range of water resource projects in accordance with the scope, schedule ...

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Water Resources Engineer

Herndon, VA ยท On-site

$82K - $127K/yr

The Water Resources Engineer will perform a variety of engineering tasks primarily supporting MDOT, VDOT, and PennDOT. The diversity of responsibilities requires a flexible mindset and cooperative ...

Water Resources Engineer

Herndon, VA ยท On-site

$82K - $127K/yr

The Water Resources Engineer will perform a variety of engineering tasks primarily supporting MDOT, VDOT, and PennDOT. The diversity of responsibilities requires a flexible mindset and cooperative ...

Water Resources Engineer

Herndon, VA ยท Hybrid

$82K - $127K/yr

The Water Resources Engineer will perform a variety of engineering tasks primarily supporting MDOT, VDOT, and PennDOT. The diversity of responsibilities requires a flexible mindset and cooperative ...

Water Resources Engineer

Herndon, VA ยท On-site

$82 - $127/hr

The Water Resources Engineer will perform a variety of engineering tasks primarily supporting MDOT, VDOT, and PennDOT. The diversity of responsibilities requires a flexible mindset and cooperative ...

Water Resources Engineer

Herndon, VA ยท On-site

$82 - $127/hr

The Water Resources Engineer will perform a variety of engineering tasks primarily supporting MDOT, VDOT, and PennDOT. The diversity of responsibilities requires a flexible mindset and cooperative ...

Water Resources Engineer

Herndon, VA ยท Hybrid

$82K - $127K/yr

The Water Resources Engineer will perform a variety of engineering tasks primarily supporting MDOT, VDOT, and PennDOT. The diversity of responsibilities requires a flexible mindset and cooperative ...

Engineer I - Water Resources

Fairfax, VA ยท On-site

$80K - $110K/yr

RK&K is currently hiring an Engineer to join our growing Water Resources team in Fairfax, VA. This ... Proactively deliver a wide range of water resource projects in accordance with the scope, schedule ...

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Water Resource Engineer information

See Silver Spring, MD salary details

$30K

$97.1K

$138K

How much do water resource engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for water resource engineer in Silver Spring, MD is $97,065.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $81,700.00 and $111,600.00 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 Silver Spring, MD?

For Water Resource Engineer jobs in Silver Spring, MD, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Water Resource Engineer jobs in Silver Spring, MD look for?

The top searched job categories for Water Resource Engineer jobs in Silver Spring, MD are:

What cities near Silver Spring, MD are hiring for Water Resource Engineer jobs?

Cities near Silver Spring, MD with the most Water Resource Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Water Resource Engineer job openings in Silver Spring, MD as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $97,065 per year, or $46.7 per hour.

Mid-Level Water Resource Engineer

Straughan Environmental Inc

Columbia, MD โ€ข Hybrid

$90K - $130K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

Description

Who We Are

Straughan Environmental, Inc. is a successful, rapidly growing, woman owned business that provides high quality and cost-effective consulting services to a wide variety of clients in the governmental and private sectors. Straughan is committed to advancing sustainable and resilient communities. We are experts in environmental planning, design, assessments, and policy. Our staff consists of wildlife and wetlands scientists; geomorphologists and hydrologists, civil and environmental engineers; inspectors; biologists and botanists; planners; cultural resource specialists; and GIS and CAD professionals. This combination of technical expertise and an understanding of policy make Straughan a highly competitive firm and a great place to advance your career.


Job Purpose

Straughan is currently seeking a highly motivated and versatile Mid-Level Water Resources Engineer to join our Engineering Business Unit who has the ability to be a leader, deliver quality projects, and grow Straughan's presence. The ideal candidate should have an interest in and understanding of current environmental issues and a shared vision for sustainability and resiliency. They will work with a diverse team to perform field assessments, develop mapping and design plans for construction, obtain permits, and perform computations and analyses for a variety of projects. Straughan is currently operating under a flexible, hybrid workplace strategy that allows employees to work primarily from home with official schedules approved by their supervisor. Applicants must be currently located in Maryland.


Straughan Benefits

One of the ways Straughan supports our staff is by providing generous benefits such as Medical, Dental and Vision Insurance, 401k Retirement plan with an employer match, tuition assistance, PTO, 8 holidays, Parental leave, HSA, FSA, Flexible work schedule, employer paid short and Longterm disability.


Salary Range for this position is $90,000 - $130,000. The compensation for this role is commensurate with experience.


Duties & Responsibilities

  • Lead design tasks or project components, ensuring timely and high-quality delivery.
  • Support project managers in preparing proposals, cost estimates, and schedules.
  • Collect and analyze data
  • Perform field assessments and site inspections
  • Perform calculations, analyses, and reporting
  • Prepare and review technical reports, drawings, and visualizations using software such as AutoCAD, MicroStation, and GIS.
  • Prepare engineering documents such as plans, reports, cost estimates, and specifications
  • Design best management practices for stormwater management, stream/shoreline restoration, and erosion & sediment control projects
  • Obtain permits from state and local agencies
  • Perform drainage design and prepare reports, include storm drain and culvert analyses.
  • Perform hydrologic and hydraulic analyses, including bridge scour, and use a variety of specialist H/H software
  • Serve as a project engineer for complex water resource engineering and transportation projects
  • Support construction projects by reviewing submittals, answering RFI's, and conducting field visits to ensure compliance with the contract drawings and specifications.
  • Present project details and technical information to colleagues and clients
  • Develop strong working relationships with internal staff and external clients
  • Maintain significant professional qualifications and participate in professional organization activities
  • Support project managers in planning, budgeting, and resource allocation for mid-to-large-scale projects.
  • Coordinate with multidisciplinary teams, clients, and stakeholders to achieve project and department goals.
  • Participate in project planning and stakeholder meetings to gain insights into project management processes.
  • Provide guidance and mentorship to junior engineers and interns
  • Attend and prepare for conferences with possible presentations.

Requirements

Qualifications

Education: Bachelor's Degree or equivalent in Civil/Environmental Engineering or related field

Experience:

  • Minimum of 4 year of relevant experience.
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to effectively communicate with clients and co-workers
  • Excellent computer skills are required, including knowledge of MicroStation or AutoCAD drafting software
  • A working knowledge of applicable engineering principals in the areas of water resource engineering and/or sustainability conceptsย 
  • Ability and interest to perform field work such as geomorphic assessments, investigation of existing site conditions for design projects and studies, and data collectionย 
  • Experience using engineering applicable engineering software such as Bentley OpenRoads (or Geopak/InRoads), Hec-RAS, TR-20, TR-55, and ArcGIS
  • State/Local Permitting Experience

Certification: Professional Engineer (PE)


Desired Qualifications

  • Stormwater management design
  • Erosion and sediment control design
  • Stream restoration design including sediment transport modeling experience
  • Drainage system design experience
  • Wetland Design experience
  • Hydrology & Hydraulics analyses including 2D modeling
  • Geomorphic assessment experience
  • Shoreline protection design experience
  • Site design and LEED experience
  • Low impact development (LID) and environmental site design (ESD) in Maryland
  • Familiarity with municipalities in the Mid-Atlantic (e.g., MD, DC, VA, DE, PA)
  • Blue-Green Infrastructure experience
  • Environmental Permitting (Forest Conservation Plans, Wetland Delineations/Wetland Impact Plates, Planting Plans, and similar environmental documents) experience
  • Public Outreach experience
  • Experience working on federal contracts such as USACE, USFWS, or NOAA
  • Experience with 2D or 3D hydrodynamic circulation models (ADCIRC, DELFT3D, EFDC, HEC-RAS 2D, SMS, SRH-2D)
  • Experience with complex integrated flood and water quality modeling (SWMM, InfoWorks ICM, MIKE)
  • Experience modeling river/estuary/shelf processes such as baroclinic tracer transport, storm surge, wind wave, coastal inundation, and water quality.
  • GIS (Arc-MAP, Arc-PRO) experience

Physical Requirements

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential function of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position as required by applicable law.

  • Prolonged periods sitting at a desk and working on a computer
  • Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds at a time
  • Must be able to traverse various types of terrain for extended periods of time
  • Physical ability to perform outdoor field work and in unpleasant field conditions
  • Physically able to conduct inspections and carry equipment used for inspections

Straughan is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, protected veteran status, or disability status