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Water Resources Engineer Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Water Resources Engineer

Nashville, TN · On-site

$71K - $98K/yr

... in water resource engineering. Must be proficient at the execution of planning, design, bidding, and construction administration phases of water infrastructure projects.Proficient at Project ...

GRW Engineers, Inc. is seeking a Senior Water Resources Engineer in our Nashville office to build and maintain a portfolio of profitable water/wastewater utilities projects in support of GRW ...

Water Resources Engineer

Nashville, TN · On-site

$76K - $104K/yr

Strong technical background and experience in water resource engineering. Must be proficient at the execution of planning, design, bidding, and construction administration phases of water ...

Water Resources Engineer

Nashville, TN · On-site

$71K - $98K/yr

Strong technical background and experience in water resource engineering. Must be proficient at the execution of planning, design, bidding, and construction administration phases of water ...

Water Resources Engineer

Nashville, TN

$76K - $104K/yr

Strong technical background and experience in water resource engineering. Must be proficient at the execution of planning, design, bidding, and construction administration phases of water ...

Junior Water Resources Engineer

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$75K - $103K/yr

Overview / Responsibilities Wood is currently recruiting entry level Water Resources Engineers in our growing water resources group based in Nashville, TN, with staff in Louisville, KY; Knoxville, TN;

Junior Water Resources Engineer

Nashville, TN · On-site

$76K - $104K/yr

Overview / Responsibilities Wood is currently recruiting entry level Water Resources Engineers in our growing water resources group based in Nashville, TN, with staff in Louisville, KY; Knoxville, TN;

Water Resources Engineer (EIT)

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$75K - $103K/yr

What You Will Contribute to OHM Advisors As a Water Resources Engineer (EIT), you will play a key role in supporting municipal engineering projects, from design to construction oversight.

Water Resources Engineer (EIT)

Nashville, TN · On-site

$76K - $104K/yr

What You Will Contribute to OHM Advisors As a Water Resources Engineer (EIT), you will play a key role in supporting municipal engineering projects, from design to construction oversight.

Engineer I - Water Resources

Nashville, TN · Hybrid

$76K - $104K/yr

Coursework in Fluid Mechanics, Water Resources Engineering, and/or Urban Hydraulics and Hydrology * Knowledge of commonly used hydrologic and hydraulic computational methodologies and analysis tools ...

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Water Resources Engineer information

See Tennessee salary details

$26.3K

$85.2K

$121.2K

How much do water resources engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for water resources engineer in Tennessee is $85,219.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $71,700.00 and $98,000.00 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 the most commonly searched types of Water Resources Engineer jobs in Tennessee?

The most popular types of Water Resources Engineer jobs in Tennessee are:

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

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

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

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

What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Water Resources Engineer jobs?

Cities in Tennessee with the most Water Resources Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Water Resources Engineer job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $85,219 per year, or $41 per hour.

Senior Water Resources Engineer

GRW Engineers, Inc.

Nashville, TN • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 28 days ago


Job description

GRW Engineers, Inc. is seeking a Senior Water Resources Engineer in our Nashville office to build and maintain a portfolio of profitable water/wastewater utilities projects in support of GRW's Tennessee water resource engineering team.

GRW is a regional, multi-disciplined firm with a desire for growth, and the firm has been listed in the ENR Top 500 since 1973. Founded in 1964, GRW's dedication to service has resulted in repeat clients providing up to 90 percent of GRW's workload. Principals and associates representing many disciplines work one-on-one with our clients. Close, personal service is the hallmark of GRW's business philosophy.

GRW offers a challenging work environment combining the latest in engineering concepts with career development to keep personnel up to date with the latest technologies and advancements. Responsibilities will include planning, design and construction administration of utility infrastructure projects. Site visits and client/public meetings will be incorporated. Your personal capabilities, interest, aptitude, and motivation will determine your professional growth. Ownership opportunities are available for the right candidate.

GRW is seeking the following qualifications:

  • Minimum of a Bachelor's of Science in Civil Engineering. Master's degree is preferred.
  • Tennessee Professional Engineer (PE) registration.
  • Minimum 20 years of experience with design and construction administration of water utility and wastewater utility infrastructure projects in a consulting environment.
  • Strong technical background and experience in water resource engineering. Must be proficient at the execution of planning, design, bidding, and construction administration phases of water infrastructure projects
  • Candidate should have excellent marketing and business development skills in addition to contacts/relationships within the industry. Must assist the Tennessee water business team leader to develop, capture, and maintain workload for the team throughout Tennessee. Existing relationships with clients in the Nashville area preferred.
  • Experience with the development of proposals.
  • Proficient at Project Management. Must prepare scope-of-work and level-of-effort estimates for contract proposals; must lead and manage team for successful execution of contracted scope, budget, and schedule.
  • Exceptional Client Service Management. Must develop and maintain a healthy network of clients throughout Tennessee.
  • Proven leadership skills. Must develop, mentor, and oversee a highly motivated team.
  • Software knowledge: Microsoft Office. Newforma is preferred.
  • Excellent oral and written English communication skills.
  • High level of organizational skills and attention to detail.
  • Excellent time management skills.
  • Ability to work well independently and as part of a team.
  • Desire, motivation and ability to exceed the firm's and clients' expectations.
  • Dedication and willingness to continue professional growth.

This role will offer the opportunity to leverage GRW's established, well-respected Tennessee water services team locally and regionally to support business development initiatives. Mentorship and development from seasoned leadership and peers will allow this Senior Water Resources Engineer to have a direct impact on maintaining and growing GRW's legacy of providing outstanding engineering services to water and wastewater clients throughout Tennessee.

GRW looks for individuals eager to advance their skills and work on teams with other dedicated employees to complete the projects our clients need. Hiring the most qualified employees is critical to us and the success of our company.

When you join GRW you'll be working for an award-winning, full-service design consulting firm with a history of more than 50 years serving our regional, national, and occasionally international clients. Our objective is simple. We value our employees and take pride in providing them with the proper resources and tools to help them achieve professional excellence.

This type of opportunity does not become available often! We invite you to apply to join our team!

Equal Opportunity Employer/Female/Male/Veterans/Disabled