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Water Resource Project Manager Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

Water Resources Engineer

El Paso, TX ยท On-site

$100K - $135K/yr

Provide project engineering and task management on water resources design projects. * Supervise and delegate work to junior engineers and support staff as necessary to manage specific hydraulic ...

Water Resources Engineer

El Paso, TX ยท On-site

$100K - $135K/yr

Provide project engineering and task management on water resources design projects. * Supervise and delegate work to junior engineers and support staff as necessary to manage specific hydraulic ...

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Water Resource Project Manager information

See Texas salary details

$82.5K

$119.1K

$168.6K

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

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for water resource project manager in Texas is $119,100.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $100,200.00 and $134,600.00 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 Texas are hiring for Water Resource Project Manager jobs?

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

Infographic showing various Water Resource Project Manager job openings in Texas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 79% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 18% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $119,100 per year, or $57.3 per hour.

Water Resources Project Manager

Austin, TX โ€ข On-site

Freese and Nichols
Civil Engineering Constructionย โ€ขย 501 - 1,000 employees

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago


Job description

Freese and Nichols, Inc.(FNI) is currently searching for a highly motivated, passionate and experienced Water Resources Project Manager to join our Central Texas Stormwater Group preferably in Austin, Texas but open to San Marcos or San Antonio. This team member will be responsible for leading projects for public sector clients that span both flood risk and mitigation planning and design.
Primary Responsibilities
  • Manage and mentor project teams performing H&H analysis and preparation of technical reports for diverse projects including open channels, closed conduit systems, drainage master planning and CIPs, detention/retention ponds, mitigation of drainage impacts, and/or regional flood planning.
  • Develop H&H models for small (site-scale) and large (HUC-8/HUC-10) scale projects, prepare and maintain project schedules, support tracking of project financials, prepare monthly status reports, and interface with clients.
  • Assist project teams as a technical resource and provide quality control reviews of technical deliverables. Mentor less experienced staff.
  • Work independently as well as oversee the work of teams of professionals and analysts.
  • Support of business development activities, including fostering client relationships, contributing to pursuit planning, and development of proposals.

Qualifications
  • 10+ years' experience in stormwater management
  • Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering (or equivalent)
  • Texas Professional Engineer (PE) license
  • Experience with a diverse range of software packages such as HEC-HMS, HEC-RAS (steady, unsteady flow, and 2D), ArcGIS Pro, and the Microsoft office suite
  • Candidate will have strong communication, organization, and teamwork skills

Preferred
  • CFM Certification and/or experience in floodplain management practices
  • Experience in Central Texas and familiarity with local criteria
  • Experience with the preparation of design plans, technical specifications, and opinion of probable construction costs for stormwater infrastructure projects. Experience with permitting.
  • Experience with development of FEMA flood studies, LOMRs and CLOMRs.

About Freese and Nichols
At the heart of our culture is our LEADS values (Learn continuously, Engage as family, Act with integrity, Deliver quality, and Serve always). Each year, our employee engagement survey confirms that our leaders and our employees live our values.
We strive to be the firm of choice for clients and employees through innovative approaches, practical results, and outstanding service. For more than 130 years, we have been planning and designing the infrastructure our communities need: developing water supplies, designing roadways and bridges, preparing for natural disasters, and much more.
Besides our comprehensive benefits package (see more at Benefits That Work for You), we offer paid overtime for salaried employees, an annual bonus, and access to company cabins in Red River, New Mexico and Banner Elk, North Carolina. We are proud of our flexible work environment which includes a hybrid schedule with up to 40% of remote work, and an alternative work schedule program which provides a day off every other Friday.
Join our team of 1,300+ employees as we grow from Virginia to Colorado. Learn more about working here at Working at Freese and Nichols.
Freese and Nichols is firmly committed to Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) and prohibits employment discrimination for employees and applicants based upon race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, pregnancy, genetic information, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other protected category under applicable federal, state, and local laws.
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