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Water Resource Engineering Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Water Resources Engineer

Raleigh, NC ยท On-site

$67K - $92K/yr

Ability to independently execute technical water resource engineering tasks. * Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, PowerPoint, Word). * Proven oral and written communication skills. * A ...

Water Resources Engineer

Burlington, NC ยท On-site

$65K - $90K/yr

Ability to independently execute technical water resource engineering tasks. * Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, PowerPoint, Word). * Proven oral and written communication skills. * A ...

Water Resources Engineer

Raleigh, NC ยท On-site

$67K - $92K/yr

Ability to independently execute technical water resource engineering tasks. * Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, PowerPoint, Word). * Proven oral and written communication skills. * A ...

Water Resources Engineer

Burlington, NC ยท On-site

$65K - $90K/yr

Ability to independently execute technical water resource engineering tasks. * Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, PowerPoint, Word). * Proven oral and written communication skills. * A ...

Water Resources Engineer

Burlington, NC ยท On-site

$90 - $120/hr

Ability to independently execute technical water resource engineering tasks. * Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, PowerPoint, Word). * Proven oral and written communication skills. * A ...

New

Water Resources Engineer

Burlington, NC ยท On-site

$85 - $120/hr

Ability to independently execute technical water resource engineering tasks. * Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, PowerPoint, Word). * Proven oral and written communication skills. * A ...

Junior Water Resource Engineer

Seattle, WA ยท On-site

$89K - $122K/yr

Performing technical analyses and supporting the development of civil engineering design documents for water resources management, water supply, water conveyance, water storage, stormwater, and ...

Water Resources Engineer

Raleigh, NC ยท On-site

$76K - $105K/yr

... engineering * Proficiency in hydrological modeling software * Strong communication and project management skills If you are passionate about water resource management and possess the required ...

Junior Water Resource Engineer

Seattle, WA ยท On-site

$89K - $122K/yr

Performing technical analyses and supporting the development of civil engineering design documents for water resources management, water supply, water conveyance, water storage, stormwater, and ...

Water Resource Engineer

Waterbury, VT ยท On-site

$50K - $80K/yr

Provide engineering design and develop technical drawings using GIS and AutoCAD for water resource projects * Perform hydrologic and hydraulic calculations and modeling * Collect monitoring data and ...

WATER RESOURCES ENGINEER II

San Francisco, CA ยท On-site

$93K - $127K/yr

In addition to performing civil design tasks, this candidate will work closely with senior staff and be mentored in the areas of hydrology and hydraulic modeling, water resource engineering ...

WATER RESOURCES ENGINEER II

San Francisco, CA ยท On-site

$93K - $127K/yr

In addition to performing civil design tasks, this candidate will work closely with senior staff and be mentored in the areas of hydrology and hydraulic modeling, water resource engineering ...

WATER RESOURCES ENGINEER II

San Francisco, CA ยท On-site

$93K - $127K/yr

In addition to performing civil design tasks, this candidate will work closely with senior staff and be mentored in the areas of hydrology and hydraulic modeling, water resource engineering ...

Showing results 21-40

Water Resource Engineering information

See salary details

$29K

$93.9K

$133.5K

How much do water resource engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for water resource engineering in the United States is $93,893.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $79,000.00 and $108,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is water resource engineering?

Water resource engineering is a branch of civil engineering focused on the management and distribution of water resources. It involves designing, planning, and implementing systems to control water for various uses, including drinking water supply, irrigation, flood control, and wastewater treatment. Water resource engineers work on projects such as dams, levees, canals, and stormwater systems to ensure safe and efficient water use while protecting the environment. Their work is critical in addressing issues like water scarcity, climate change, and sustainable development.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a water resource engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Water Resource Engineer, you need a solid background in civil or environmental engineering, hydrology, and water management, often supported by a relevant degree and Professional Engineer (PE) licensure. Proficiency with technical tools such as GIS software, hydraulic modeling (e.g., HEC-RAS), and CAD systems is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are essential soft skills for collaborating with stakeholders and addressing complex environmental challenges. These skills and qualifications are crucial for designing sustainable water solutions and ensuring public safety in water infrastructure projects.

What are some typical challenges faced by water resource engineers when working on large-scale projects?

Water resource engineers often encounter challenges such as balancing competing demands for water between agricultural, industrial, and municipal users, while ensuring environmental sustainability. They must also navigate complex regulatory requirements and coordinate with multiple stakeholders, including government agencies, environmental groups, and community members. Additionally, adapting designs to changing climate patterns and unpredictable weather events can require creative problem-solving and flexibility. Collaboration with interdisciplinary teams, including hydrologists, environmental scientists, and urban planners, is essential to developing effective and sustainable solutions.

What is the difference between Water Resource Engineering vs Civil Engineering?

AspectWater Resource EngineeringCivil Engineering
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Water Resources, Civil, or Environmental Engineering; Professional Engineer (PE) license often preferredBachelor's in Civil Engineering; PE license common for licensed engineers
Work EnvironmentDesigning water systems, flood control, hydrology projects, often in specialized agencies or consulting firmsBroad construction projects, infrastructure, transportation, and water systems in various settings
Employer & Industry UsageGovernment agencies, environmental firms, consulting companies focused on water systemsConstruction firms, government agencies, private sector infrastructure projects
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Water Resource Engineering focuses specifically on water systems, hydrology, and flood control, while Civil Engineering covers a broader range of infrastructure projects. Both roles require similar credentials and often overlap in work environments, but Water Resource Engineers specialize in water-related projects within the civil engineering field.

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 systems, flood control, and environmental protection projects, often requiring skills in hydrology, GIS, and sustainable design.

What do you do as a water resource engineer?

A water resource engineer designs, develops, and manages systems for water supply, flood control, and environmental protection. They analyze water data, use modeling tools, and ensure compliance with regulations to optimize water use and sustainability. The role often requires knowledge of hydraulics, hydrology, and environmental engineering principles.

What is the average salary for a water resource engineer in the US?

The average salary for a water resource engineer in the US is approximately $70,000 to $90,000 per year, depending on experience, education, and location. Professionals with advanced certifications or specialized skills in hydrology or environmental modeling may earn higher salaries.
More about Water Resource Engineering jobs

What cities are hiring for Water Resource Engineering jobs?

Cities with the most Water Resource Engineering job openings:

What states have the most Water Resource Engineering jobs?

States with the most job openings for Water Resource Engineering jobs include:

Infographic showing various Water Resource Engineering job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 85% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $93,893 per year, or $45.1 per hour.

Water Resources Engineer

Ayres Associates Inc

Raleigh, NC โ€ข On-site

$67K - $92K/yr

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

We are seeking a confident and motivated water resource engineer to support the technical delivery of projects within our Stream and Stormwater Group in North Carolina. Ayres is seeking a passionate and talented engineer to help grow our team, expand relationships with safety-focused clients, and innovate solutions to complex engineering challenges. This position requires good written and oral communication skills and a passion to continue lifelong learning and transfer that passion and technical understanding to younger engineers. This role is ideal for individuals who excel at building trusted partnerships, developing new opportunities, and leading teams to deliver high-quality work. You will play a key role in shaping our portfolio, strengthening client relationships, and helping grow our presence in key markets.

Join Ayres – a USA TODAY Top Workplace recognized in both 2025 and 2026 – where people-first leadership, collaboration, and professional growth create an environment where great teams do their best work.

On any given day, you’ll focus on:

Technical Project Implementation

  • Support, and occasionally lead, the technical execution on transportation, rivers and infrastructure, and hydraulic/hydrology projects.
  • Collaborate with a team of hydraulics/hydrology engineers to develop analyses approaches, confirm applicable codes, analyze complex watersheds and flow conveyance systems, document findings efficiently, review others’ work and have your work reviewed, and prepare well-written and complete reports.
  • May oversee or execute and review technical hydraulic/hydrologic work.
  • Oversee project staff and review work products to confirm they meet applicable codes and are in conformance with Ayres' quality standards.
  • Proactively identify and manage risks, ensuring smooth project execution.
  • Perform design or review designs for hydraulic/hydrology projects.
  • Occasional field assessments or site visits.
  • May supervise staff.
  • Build and maintain respectful working relationships with Project Managers and Ayres leadership.

Client and Business Development

  • Assist your group manager and business development lead with identifying marketing opportunities and strategies to pursue stream and infrastructure projects.
  • Network and team with other Ayres business and service lines in North Carolina.
  • Maintain strong, long-term relationships with municipal, state, federal, and private-sector clients.
  • Support proposals, including defining scopes, developing fees, and participating in interviews.
  • Help position the team in targeted markets and strengthen brand presence.
  • Represent the firm in professional organizations and industry events.

Required Qualifications:

  • A bachelor’s degree in civil/hydraulic/hydrologic engineering from an accredited university.
  • Registered professional engineer (PE) in North Carolina.
  • A minimum of 7 years of experience in the field of water resource engineering.
  • Ability to independently execute technical water resource engineering tasks.
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, PowerPoint, Word).
  • Proven oral and written communication skills.
  • A valid driver’s license and good driving record.

Desired Skills and Experiences:

  • A master’s degree in civil engineering.
  • Design experience in water resources, hydraulic or hydrologic engineering.
  • Experience establishing mutually respectful and collaborative relationships.

Benefits of being part of the Ayres team: 

  • Health, dental, and vision Insurance.
  • Short and long-term disability and life insurance.
  • Employee stock ownership plan (ESOP) and 401K with company match.
  • PTO, paid holidays including two floating holidays, and a flexible work schedule.
  • Professional development opportunities.

Please note, benefits vary depending on job status. To learn more about our great benefits, visit our website at  https://www.ayresassociates.com/careers/the-ayres-advantage/

Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer