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Water Resource Manager Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

HDR

Water Resources Engineer

Des Moines, IA

$77K - $105K/yr

We believe water is more than a resource, it's a shared responsibility. As part of our Water Business Group, you'll help shape how communities manage water for generations to come. From delivering ...

HDR

Water Resources Engineer

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$77K - $105K/yr

We believe water is more than a resource, it's a shared responsibility. As part of our Water Business Group, you'll help shape how communities manage water for generations to come. From delivering ...

HDR

Water Resources EIT/Coordinator

Des Moines, IA

$77K - $105K/yr

We believe water is more than a resource, it's a shared responsibility. As part of our Water Business Group, you'll help shape how communities manage water for generations to come. From delivering ...

HDR

Water Resources EIT/Coordinator

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$77K - $105K/yr

We believe water is more than a resource, it's a shared responsibility. As part of our Water Business Group, you'll help shape how communities manage water for generations to come. From delivering ...

ISG

Water Resources Engineer

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$75K - $150K/yr

Water Resources Engineer Department: Civil Employment Type: Full Time Location: Des Moines, IA ... Develop and implement stormwater management plans, including stormwater management reports as ...

I & S Group, Inc.

Water Resources Engineer

Storm Lake, IA · On-site

$75 - $150/hr

Water Resources Engineer Department: Civil Employment Type: Full Time Location: Storm Lake, IA ... Develop and implement stormwater management plans, including stormwater management reports as ...

ISG

Water Resources Engineer

Storm Lake, IA · On-site

$75K - $150K/yr

Water Resources Engineer Department: Civil Employment Type: Full Time Location: Storm Lake, IA ... Develop and implement stormwater management plans, including stormwater management reports as ...

I & S Group, Inc.

Water Resources Engineer

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$75 - $150/hr

Water Resources Engineer Department: Civil Employment Type: Full Time Location: Des Moines, IA ... Develop and implement stormwater management plans, including stormwater management reports as ...

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All JobsWater Resource JobsWater Resource Manager JobsWater Resource Manager Jobs in Iowa

Water Resource Manager information

See Iowa salary details

$27.2K

$88.4K

$157.3K

How much do water resource manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for water resource manager in Iowa is $88,449.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $59,200.00 and $109,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges a water resource manager faces when balancing the needs of multiple stakeholders?

Water Resource Managers often encounter the challenge of balancing competing demands from agricultural, industrial, municipal, and environmental stakeholders. Ensuring equitable distribution, maintaining water quality, and planning for long-term sustainability require collaboration and clear communication among diverse groups. Managers must also stay updated on regulations, drought conditions, and emerging technologies, which can add complexity to decision-making. Successfully navigating these challenges relies on strong negotiation, analytical, and project management skills.

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

To thrive as a Water Resource Manager, you need expertise in hydrology, environmental science, and resource management, typically supported by a degree in environmental engineering or a related field. Familiarity with GIS software, water quality modeling tools, and regulatory compliance systems is essential. Strong analytical thinking, project management, and stakeholder communication skills help you excel in coordinating complex projects and negotiating with diverse groups. These skills ensure effective management of water resources, compliance with regulations, and sustainable outcomes for communities and ecosystems.

What is the difference between Water Resource Manager vs Hydrologist?

AspectWater Resource ManagerHydrologist
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in environmental science, water resources, or related field; often certifications in water managementBachelor's or master's in geology, hydrology, or earth sciences; often professional licensure or certifications in hydrology
Work EnvironmentGovernment agencies, consulting firms, water utilities; focus on management and policy implementationResearch institutions, government agencies, environmental consulting; focus on scientific analysis and data collection
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by water management agencies, environmental organizations, and industries managing water resourcesEmployed by research institutions, government agencies, and environmental firms conducting hydrological studies

While both roles involve water and environmental expertise, Water Resource Managers focus on planning, policy, and managing water systems, whereas Hydrologists specialize in scientific analysis and understanding water processes. The roles often overlap in environmental projects but differ in their primary focus and responsibilities.

How do you become a water resource manager?

To become a water resource manager, individuals typically need a bachelor's degree in environmental science, hydrology, civil engineering, or a related field. Gaining experience through internships or entry-level positions and obtaining relevant certifications, such as the Certified Water Professional credential, can enhance job prospects. Advanced roles may require a master's degree or specialized training in water management or policy.

Is water resource management a good career?

Water resource management is a vital field focused on sustainable water use, infrastructure, and policy. It offers opportunities in environmental consulting, government agencies, and engineering, often requiring knowledge of hydrology, environmental science, and relevant certifications. The profession can provide stable employment with the chance to contribute to environmental conservation and public health.

What does a water resource manager do?

A water resource manager oversees the planning, development, and management of water resources to ensure sustainable supply and quality. They analyze data, develop policies, and coordinate with agencies to address water-related issues, often using tools like GIS and requiring relevant certifications. Their work involves environmental assessment, regulatory compliance, and strategic planning to support communities and ecosystems.

What are the most commonly searched types of Water Resource jobs in Iowa?

The most popular types of Water Resource jobs in Iowa are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Water Resource Manager jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Water Resource Manager job openings:

Water Resource Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Water Resource Manager job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $88,449 per year, or $42.5 per hour.

Water Resources Engineer

HDR

Des Moines, IA

$77K - $105K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 5 days ago

HDR rating

9.2

Company rating: 9.2 out of 10

Based on 59 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

33rd of 449 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. 
We believe water is more than a resource, it's a shared responsibility. As part of our Water Business Group, you'll help shape how communities manage water for generations to come. From delivering safe drinking water and treating wastewater responsibly to developing sustainable water supplies and protecting lives and property through flood control, your work will directly support public health, environmental sustainability, and infrastructure resilience.  We bring together experts across disciplines to solve complex challenges with bold thinking and technical excellence. Whether you're modernizing aging systems or pioneering innovative approaches, your contributions will make a meaningful difference in people's lives. This isn't just a job, it's a chance to lead change, drive progress, and leave a lasting legacy.

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 collection systems modeling and design; collect, assimilate and present data in reports, memos and public forums; lead production of design calculations and technical reports; and lead preparation of engineering plans and specifications for design of detention facilities, storm drains, flood control facilities and other hydraulic structures
  • Work independently in addition to planning, organizing and assisting groups of medium to large teams of professionals and technicians dependent on project/task
  • Conduct water resources planning, plan formulation and concept development, and develop planning documentation
  • Assist in water resources permitting efforts
  • Perform other duties as needed
 
Preferred Qualifications
  • MS degree
  • A minimum of 3 years experience in water resources engineering projects
  •  Familiarity with H&H design software including HEC-HMS, HEC-RAS, SRH-2D, SWMM, InfoWorks or other channel/conduit hydraulic analysis software

*LI-BC1

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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