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Water Resource Project Manager Jobs in California

PACE - Advanced Water Engineering

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Water/Wastewater Conveyance Project Manager

Fountain Valley, CA · On-site

$130K - $200K/yr

The position will strategically apply sustainable design practices to a variety of water resources ... project manager · Valid Professional Engineer (PE) license (California preferred). · MS Office ...

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All JobsWater Resource Project JobsWater Resource Project Manager JobsWater Resource Project Manager Jobs in California

Water Resource Project Manager information

See California salary details

$87.3K

$126.2K

$178.6K

How much do water resource project manager jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for water resource project manager in California is $126,164.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $106,100.00 and $142,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a water resource project manager do?

A Water Resource Project Manager oversees the planning, design, and implementation of projects related to water resources, such as water supply, flood control, and environmental restoration. They coordinate teams of engineers, scientists, and other professionals to ensure projects meet regulatory requirements, timelines, and budgets. Their responsibilities may also include stakeholder engagement, risk management, and securing project funding. Water Resource Project Managers play a critical role in ensuring sustainable and efficient use of water resources for communities and the environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a water resource project manager?

To thrive as a Water Resource Project Manager, you need expertise in hydrology, environmental engineering, and project management, typically supported by a relevant degree and professional licensure such as a PE. Familiarity with hydraulic modeling software, GIS systems, and regulatory frameworks is essential for overseeing technical project aspects. Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills help coordinate multidisciplinary teams and engage stakeholders effectively. These capabilities are crucial for delivering sustainable water resource projects on time and within budget while meeting regulatory and environmental standards.

What are some common challenges faced by water resource project managers in coordinating multidisciplinary teams?

Water Resource Project Managers often coordinate teams that include engineers, environmental scientists, regulatory experts, and community stakeholders. A common challenge is aligning differing priorities and communication styles, especially when balancing technical requirements with regulatory compliance and community needs. Effective project managers foster open communication, establish clear roles, and facilitate regular progress meetings to ensure all team members are aligned. This collaborative approach not only helps mitigate misunderstandings but also drives project success.

What is the difference between Water Resource Project Manager vs Civil Engineer?

AspectWater Resource Project ManagerCivil Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in environmental, civil engineering or related field; often PMP certificationBachelor's in civil engineering; licensure (PE) often preferred
Work EnvironmentProject sites, offices, environmental agenciesConstruction sites, design offices, consulting firms
Industry UsageWater management, environmental agencies, consulting firmsConstruction, infrastructure, transportation projects

While both roles require a background in civil or environmental engineering, Water Resource Project Managers focus on managing water-related projects, including planning and coordination, whereas Civil Engineers are involved in designing and constructing infrastructure projects. The Project Manager oversees project execution, budgets, and timelines, while Civil Engineers focus on technical design and engineering solutions.

Is a water resource project manager a high paying job?

Water resource project managers typically earn salaries above the national average for project management roles, with pay varying based on experience, education, and location. They often require skills in environmental regulations, budgeting, and stakeholder communication, which can influence compensation levels.

What cities in California are hiring for Water Resource Project Manager jobs?

Cities in California with the most Water Resource Project Manager job openings:

Water Resource Project Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Water Resource Project Manager job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, and 6% Temporary. Highlights an 94% In-person, and 6% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $126,164 per year, or $60.7 per hour.

Project Manager - Water Resources

RE/SPEC Inc.

San Diego, CA • On-site, Remote

$110K - $170K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 10 days ago

Job description

Company Description

Big challenges need bold thinkers.

If you're someone who sees problems as opportunities, you'll thrive here. RESPEC is 100% employee-owned, which means we take ownership of every challenge. Here, your ideas drive real solutions. Since 1969, we've tackled complex challenges in energy transition, infrastructure resilience, digital transformation, and sustainability.

At RESPEC, you'll work alongside clients to take on critical problems. Depending on your expertise, you might design infrastructure in remote locations, develop renewable energy solutions for global projects, or apply data-driven technology to improve mining and water systems.

We bring deep technical knowledge, real-world experience, and a commitment to work that matters. If you're looking for a place where your contributions have real impact, you'll fit right in.

Job Description

RESPEC, seeks a Water Resource Engineering Project Manager in our Water market sector, located in San Diego, CA.

As a Project Manager, you will contribute to a wide range of water resources engineering projects, including rainfall analysis, hydrologic and hydraulic modeling, stormwater management, and development of technical guidance documents. The position may also support other civil and water related projects. This position is based in Southern California, with the primary office in San Diego, offers flexibility for hybrid work, and includes regional travel within Southern California for client meetings.

We do not accept unsolicited resumes from third-party recruiters.

Qualifications

Required:

  • Bachelor's degree in civil, water resources, environmental engineering or a related engineering field
  • 8 or more years of experience in hydrology and hydraulics for public sector or private consulting clients
  • Strong background in rainfall runoff modeling and statistical hydrology
  • A minimum of 3 years of project manager experience
  • Registered Professional Engineer (P.E.) in the state of California
  • Experience leading multidiscipline teams and mentoring technical professionals
  • Proven ability to support business development and strengthen client relationships
  • Must possess a valid driver's license and maintain a clean driving record; position requires operating a company or personal vehicle during work hours for business-related travel

Preferred:

  • Established relationships and experience working with California agencies and public sector clients
  • Direct experience with county or regional hydrology manuals, drainage criteria, or technical guidance documents
  • Experience with advanced statistical analysis of rainfall and streamflow, including nonstationary hydrologic conditions and post fire hydrology
  • Comfort reviewing and defending technical assumptions with agency reviewers
  • Practical application of hydrology and hydraulics software, including HEC-RAS (1D and 2D), HEC-HMS, and SWMM
Additional Information

Compensation: Salary depends on experience and expertise, typical salary range for this position in California is $110k-170k, DOEQ. Compensation includes a comprehensive fringe-benefits package. RESPEC is a 100% employee-owned company and employees are eligible for participation in the Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) after a qualifying period.

Featured benefits include:

  • Flexible Work Schedules
  • Retirement & EPP (with company match up to 4%)
  • Professional Development and Training
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Health/Dental/Vision Insurance Plans

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

Apply