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Water Resources Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Water Resources Engineer

Dallas, TX · On-site

$78K - $106K/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 ...

Water Resources Engineer

Vienna, VA · On-site

$79K - $108K/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 ...

Water Resources Engineer

Providence, RI · Hybrid

$79K - $109K/yr

ABOUT THE POSITION Water Resources Engineer / Project Manager | Providence, RI | Hybrid VHB's Water Resources group is growing across New England, and we're looking for aProject Manager/ Water ...

Water Resources Engineer

Austin, TX

$78K - $107K/yr

Description INTERA Incorporated is seeking an experienced mid-level Water Resources Engineer to join our Austin, Texas office. Candidates based in New Mexico, Arizona, or other Western U.S. office ...

Water Resources Engineer

Austin, TX · On-site

$78K - $107K/yr

INTERA Incorporated is seeking an experienced mid-level Water Resources Engineer to join our Austin, Texas office. Candidates based in New Mexico, Arizona, or other Western U.S. office locations will ...

Water Resources Engineer

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$72K - $98K/yr

INTERA Incorporated is seeking an experienced mid-level Water Resources Engineer to join our Albuquerque, New Mexico office. Candidates based in Texas, Arizona, or other Western U.S. office locations ...

Water Resources Engineer

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$84K - $115K/yr

HDR is looking for a water resources engineer to join our Water Resources team in Sacramento, CA. Candidates for the position should have experience in hydrologic & hydraulic (H&H) modeling and ...

Water Resources Engineer

Charleston, SC · On-site

$75K - $103K/yr

Job Title Water Resources Engineer Job Type Full-Time Location Charleston - Charleston, SC 29412 US Columbia - Columbia, SC 29201 US Raleigh - Raleigh, NC 27607 US (Primary) Education Bachelor ...

Water Resources Engineer

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$84K - $115K/yr

HDR is looking for a water resources engineer to join our Water Resources team in Sacramento, CA. Candidates for the position should have experience in hydrologic & hydraulic (H&H) modeling and ...

Water Resources Engineer

Salinas, CA

$84K - $116K/yr

The Monterey County Water Resources Agency (MCWRA) is recruiting for the position of Water Resources Engineer. Agency Summary Prior to its formal establishment in 1991, the Monterey County Water ...

Water Resources Engineer

Sarasota, FL · On-site

$76K - $104K/yr

Company Description RESPEC seeks a Water Resources Engineer for our Sarasota, FL, location. Founded in 1969, RESPEC is a global, 100 percent employee-owned consulting and services company dedicated ...

LJB Inc. is seeking a Senior Water Resources Engineer in Dayton, Ohio to help grow our Water Resources Practice in Ohio. The ideal candidate brings 8+ years of progressive water resources engineering ...

Water Resources Engineer

Sarasota, FL · On-site

$76K - $104K/yr

Company Description RESPEC seeks a Water Resources Engineer for our Sarasota, FL, location. Founded in 1969, RESPEC is a global, 100 percent employee-owned consulting and services company dedicated ...

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 Resources Engineer information

See salary details

$29K

$93.9K

$133.5K

How much do water resources engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for water resources engineer in the United States is $93,893.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $79,000.00 and $108,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What engineers make $200,000 a year?

Senior Water Resources Engineers with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and specialized skills in hydrology, hydraulics, or environmental modeling can earn $200,000 or more annually, especially in high-demand regions or consulting roles. Achieving this salary often requires a combination of advanced education, professional licensure, and years of experience in the field.

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 engineers make $500,000 a year?

Highly experienced engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum engineering, aerospace engineering, or certain senior roles in software engineering can earn $500,000 or more annually, often including bonuses and stock options. These positions typically require advanced skills, extensive experience, and often involve leadership or executive responsibilities.

What does a water resources engineer do?

A water resources engineer designs, analyzes, and manages systems related to water supply, flood control, and environmental protection. They use tools like hydrologic models and GIS software to develop sustainable solutions and often require knowledge of regulations and certifications in water management. Their work typically involves field assessments, data analysis, and collaboration with stakeholders to ensure efficient water use and safety.

What are Water Resources Engineers?

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 engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and leadership roles. High compensation often involves working in high-demand industries, managing large projects, or holding executive-level responsibilities.

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.

More about Water Resources Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Water Resources Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Water Resources Engineer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Water Resources Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Water Resources Engineer jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for Water Resources Engineer jobs? The top employers for Water Resources Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Water Resources Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Water Resources Engineer jobs include:
Infographic showing various Water Resources Engineer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 99% Full Time, and 1% Part Time. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $93,893 per year, or $45.1 per hour.
Water Resources Engineer

Water Resources Engineer

HDR

Dallas, TX • On-site

$78K - $106K/yr

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago


HDR rating

9.1

Company rating: 9.1 out of 10

Based on 55 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

20th of 357 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
  • Experienced with hydraulic/hydrologic modeling software (HEC-HMS, HEC-RAS, and storm drain system analysis software such as XPSWMM, PCSWMM or InfoWorks ICM).
  • Experienced with ArcGIS Pro and with standard CAD platforms such as AutoCAD or MicroStation

Qualifications
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.

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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