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Water Resources Engineer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

HDR

Water Resources Engineer

Des Moines, IA

$77K - $105K/yr

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 ...

HDR

Water Resources Engineer

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$77K - $105K/yr

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 ...

HDR

Water Resources Engineer

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$77K - $105K/yr

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 ...

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 Compensation: $75,000 - $150,000 / year Description Imagine a world where every drop of rain is ...

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 Compensation: $75,000 - $150,000 / year Description Imagine a world where every drop of rain is ...

Foth

Lead Water Resources Engineer

Cedar Rapids, IA

$130K - $160K/yr

Foth is seeking a Lead Water Resources Engineer with a strong focus on technical delivery. In this role, you will leverage your technical expertise nationwide in the water resources space and your ...

Foth

Lead Water Resources Engineer

Des Moines, IA · On-site +1

$130K - $160K/yr

Foth is seeking a Lead Water Resources Engineer with a strong focus on technical delivery. In this role, you will leverage your technical expertise nationwide in the water resources space and your ...

Foth

Lead Water Resources Engineer

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$130K - $160K/yr

Foth is seeking a Lead Water Resources Engineer with a strong focus on technical delivery. In this role, you will leverage your technical expertise nationwide in the water resources space and your ...

HNTB

Water Resources Engineer II

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$77K - $105K/yr

We are seeking a highly creative and motivated engineer with 2+ years of experience in water resources to lead project design. Join our more than 110 years of experience and be part of why HNTB ...

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All JobsWater Resources Engineer JobsWater Resources Engineer Jobs in Iowa

Water Resources Engineer information

See Iowa salary details

$27.2K

$88.2K

$125.4K

How much do water resources engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for water resources engineer in Iowa is $88,191.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $74,200.00 and $101,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a water resources engineer?

Water Resources Engineers are professionals who design, develop, and manage systems related to water, such as dams, reservoirs, flood control systems, drainage, and irrigation. They work to ensure that water resources are used efficiently and sustainably, while also protecting communities from water-related hazards like floods and droughts. Their work often involves analyzing water flow, quality, and distribution to support both human and environmental needs.

What are some common challenges water resources engineers face when working on large-scale infrastructure projects?

Water Resources Engineers often encounter challenges related to balancing environmental regulations with project timelines and stakeholder interests. Coordinating with multidisciplinary teams—including environmental scientists, government agencies, and construction crews—can present logistical and communication hurdles. Additionally, adapting designs to evolving climate data and integrating sustainable practices while remaining within budget requires creative problem-solving and flexibility. Successful engineers in this field are proactive communicators and adept at managing both technical and regulatory complexities.

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

A Water Resources Engineer should have a solid background in civil or environmental engineering, hydrology, and water management, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree and professional licensure (such as PE). Familiarity with modeling software like HEC-RAS, GIS systems, and CAD tools, as well as knowledge of regulatory standards, is essential. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills are important soft skills for success in this role. These competencies are crucial for designing sustainable water systems, ensuring regulatory compliance, and collaborating with stakeholders on complex infrastructure projects.

What is the difference between Water Resources Engineer vs Civil Engineer?

AspectWater Resources EngineerCivil Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Civil, Environmental, or Water Resources Engineering; Professional Engineer (PE) license often preferredBachelor's in Civil Engineering; PE license often required
Work EnvironmentDesigning water systems, flood control, hydrology projects, often in consulting or government agenciesBroader infrastructure projects including roads, bridges, buildings, and water systems
Industry UsageSpecialized in water-related projects within civil engineering firms, government agencies, and consultingWide range of infrastructure projects across various sectors

Water Resources Engineers focus specifically on water-related infrastructure, hydrology, and water management projects, while Civil Engineers have a broader scope that includes various infrastructure types. Both roles require similar credentials and often work in overlapping environments, but their project focus differs significantly.

Are water resources engineers in demand?

Water resources engineers are in demand due to increasing concerns over water management, infrastructure needs, and environmental sustainability. Employment opportunities are expected to grow as governments and organizations invest in water-related projects and infrastructure upgrades, often requiring skills in hydrology, environmental engineering, and the use of modeling tools. Certification and experience in sustainable practices can enhance job prospects in this field.

What are popular job titles related to Water Resources Engineer jobs in Iowa?

For Water Resources Engineer jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Water Resources Engineer jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Water Resources Engineer jobs in Iowa are:

Water Resources Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Water Resources Engineer job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $88,191 per year, or $42.4 per hour.

Water Resources Engineer

HDR

Des Moines, IA

$77K - $105K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday

HDR rating

9.2

Company rating: 9.2 out of 10

Based on 59 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

32nd 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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