1

Water Resource Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

Practice Leader - Water/Wastewater

Portland, OR · On-site

$23 - $31.75/hr

Has an entrepreneurial spirit and create a vision for growth for the local water resource practice and beyond * Given a great deal of autonomy to lead, direct, and grow their business * Leadership ...

Has an entrepreneurial spirit and create a vision for growth for the local water resource practice and beyond * Given a great deal of autonomy to lead, direct, and grow their business * Leadership ...

Has an entrepreneurial spirit and create a vision for growth for the local water resource practice and beyond * Given a great deal of autonomy to lead, direct, and grow their business * Leadership ...

Proficient knowledge of water resource engineering principles, practices, process. * Demonstrated experience leading multidisciplinary drinking water infrastructure projects. Proficient ability to ...

Our work spans high-growth sectors like water resources, resilient land use, energy transformation, and civil infrastructure. Our commitment to excellence, across more than 90 offices, is championed ...

Lead Consultant, Water

Portland, OR · On-site

$107.60 - $159.80/hr

Proficient knowledge of water resource engineering principles, practices, process. * Demonstrated experience leading multidisciplinary drinking water infrastructure projects. Proficient ability to ...

Proficient knowledge of water resource engineering principles, practices, process. * Demonstrated experience leading multidisciplinary drinking water infrastructure projects. Proficient ability to ...

Overview / Responsibilities Wood is currently seeking a Senior-Level Civil / Water Resources Engineer to join our team in Portland, Oregon. You be part of a team on civil engineering projects ...

Showing results 21-40

Water Resource information

See Oregon salary details

$37K

$91.8K

$150.7K

How much do water resource jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for water resource in Oregon is $91,768.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $67,100.00 and $116,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Water Resource vs Water Quality Specialist?

AspectWater ResourceWater Quality Specialist
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Environmental Science, Civil Engineering, or related field; certifications like PE or WRE often preferredBachelor's in Environmental Science, Chemistry, or related; certifications like WQ certification common
Work EnvironmentFieldwork, data analysis, project planning in government agencies, consulting firms, or environmental organizationsLaboratory testing, field sampling, data analysis, regulatory compliance in labs, government agencies, or consulting firms
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by water resource management agencies, environmental consultancies, and government bodiesUtilized by environmental agencies, water treatment facilities, and regulatory agencies

Water Resource professionals focus on managing and developing water supplies, infrastructure, and sustainable use strategies. Water Quality Specialists primarily assess and ensure the safety and quality of water through testing and compliance. While both roles involve environmental work and certifications, their daily tasks and focus areas differ significantly, catering to different aspects of water management.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in water resource management roles?

Professionals in water resource management often encounter challenges such as balancing competing demands from agriculture, industry, and residential users while ensuring sustainable use of water resources. Adapting to climate variability, regulatory changes, and the need for ongoing stakeholder engagement can also present difficulties. Additionally, managing aging infrastructure and integrating new technologies to improve efficiency are common aspects that require problem-solving and collaboration with multidisciplinary teams.

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

To thrive as a Water Resource Specialist, you need a background in environmental science, hydrology, or civil engineering, often supported by a relevant degree and experience with water management projects. Proficiency with GIS software, hydrological modeling tools, and regulatory compliance systems is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, communication, and problem-solving skills help you collaborate with stakeholders and develop sustainable solutions. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring effective water resource management, regulatory compliance, and the protection of environmental and public interests.

What is a water resource specialist?

Water resource specialists are professionals who manage, conserve, and protect water supplies for communities, industries, and the environment. They analyze water quality, monitor usage, develop water management plans, and ensure compliance with environmental regulations. Their work is crucial for ensuring that clean water is available for drinking, agriculture, recreation, and ecosystem health. Water resource specialists often collaborate with government agencies, environmental organizations, and private companies to promote sustainable water practices.

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

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

Infographic showing various Water Resource job openings in Oregon as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 90% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $91,768 per year, or $44.1 per hour.

Practice Leader - Water/Wastewater

Kimley-Horn

Portland, OR • On-site

$23 - $31.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 19 days ago


Kimley-Horn rating

8.9

Company rating: 8.9 out of 10

Based on 86 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

55th of 449 rated engineering


Job description

Overview
Kimley-Horn has an opportunity for a motivated Practice Leader to expand our Water/Wastewater and Utilities practice in Portland, OR! As a Practice Leader, you'll be at the helm of leading water/wastewater projects while strategically driving growth within the water practice. With significant autonomy, you'll have the opportunity to shape the vision for practice expansion while mentoring a talented team and fostering strong client relationships.
Responsibilities
  • Manage, lead, and expand practice teams for multi-discipline projects and programs of work in the fields of water/wastewater treatment projects, water and wastewater pumping systems, and large diameter conveyance (water distribution and wastewater collection)
  • Has an entrepreneurial spirit and create a vision for growth for the local water resource practice and beyond
  • Given a great deal of autonomy to lead, direct, and grow their business
  • Leadership responsibilities include:
    • Operating with integrity and sound business principles
    • Providing vision, business planning and strategy
    • Establishing goals
    • Building and maintaining positive client relationships
    • Having open communication with your partners and team
    • Growing and leading a Water/Wastewater and Utilities practice
  • Our Project Managers/Practice Builders manage their projects profitably, transition work to qualified staff, grow and mentor staff, and act as a positive leader and mentor
  • The successful candidate will be given a great deal of autonomy to lead, direct, and grow their business
  • With success, this individual will enjoy the rewards of an impressive bonus program with the potential to advance to ownership

Qualifications
  • 15+ years of civil engineering, design, and management of utility water projects experience
  • Registered Professional Engineer (P.E.) license
  • Client contacts and relationships with local municipalities, area counties, water management authorities and local, regional, state agencies
  • Business development skills and the proven ability to win work
  • Excellent communication, leadership, and technical skills
  • Strong desire and ability to be engaged with clients solving project problems
  • Ability to effectively communicate positively at all levels of the organization
  • Ability to manage and mentor staff and direct resources effectively in a positive manner
  • Demonstrated ability to manage projects profitably

Salary Range:
  • Based on Experience
  • Eligible for Lucrative Performance Based Bonus Compensation

Why Kimley-Horn?
At Kimley-Horn, we do things differently. People, clients, and employees are at the forefront of who we are. Clients know we prioritize achieving their goals and growing their success. Employees know our culture and approach to business are built on a desire to provide an environment for everyone to flourish. Our commitment to quality is only as good as the people behind it- that's why we welcome and develop passionate, hardworking, and proactive employees. We take pride in how our employee retention, robust benefits package, and company values have led to Kimley-Horn's placement on the Fortune "100 Best Companies to Work" list for 19 years!
Key Benefits at Kimley-Horn
  • Exceptional Retirement Plan: 2-to1- company match on up to 4% of eligible compensation (salary + bonus) and additional profit-sharing contribution.
  • Comprehensive Health Coverage: Low-cost medical, dental, and vision insurance options.
  • Time Off: Personal leave, flexible scheduling, floating holidays, and half-day Fridays.
  • Financial Wellness: Student loan matching in our 401(k), and performance-based bonuses.
  • Professional Development: Tuition reimbursement and extensive internal training programs.
  • Family-Friendly Benefits: New Parent Leave, family building benefits, and childcare resources.

What Kimley-Horn employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Kimley-Horn logo

About Kimley-Horn

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

We are a full-service consulting firm that provides a wide range of infrastructure and land development planning and engineering services to both public and private clients. Though we have more than 6,000 employees in 100+ offices, we pride ourselves on our small company feel. At Kimley-Horn, we do things differently. People--clients and employees--are at the forefront of our business. Clients know we are laser-focused on their success. Employees know our culture and approach to business are built on a desire to see our staff flourish, one and all. Both groups know that with Kimley-Horn, they can expect more and experience better.

Industry

Specialized design services

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Raleigh, NC, US

Year founded

1967