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Water Resources Manager Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

Water Resources Engineer

Vienna, VA · On-site

$79K - $108K/yr

Provide project engineering and task management, conduct difficult to complex hydraulic and ... Conduct water resources planning, plan formulation and concept development, and develop planning ...

Water Resources Engineer

Vienna, VA

$79K - $108K/yr

Provide project engineering and task management, conduct difficult to complex hydraulic and ... Conduct water resources planning, plan formulation and concept development, and develop planning ...

Water Resources Discipline Lead Fairfax, Richmond, or Virginia Beach, VA STV is seeking an ... Oversee hydrologic and hydraulic analysis, stormwater management, drainage design, floodplain ...

Provide project and task management; conduct difficult to complex hydraulic and hydrologic modeling ... A minimum of 10 years Water Resources experience * Requires professional engineering license ...

Provide project and task management; conduct difficult to complex hydraulic and hydrologic modeling ... A minimum of 10 years Water Resources experience * Requires professional engineering license ...

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Water Resources Manager information

See Reston, VA salary details

$28.6K

$85K

$143K

How much do water resources manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for water resources manager in Reston, VA is $84,973.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52,000.00 and $121,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Water Resources Manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Water Resources Manager, you need a solid background in environmental science, hydrology, or civil engineering, often supported by a relevant bachelor's or master's degree. Familiarity with GIS software, water modeling tools, and regulatory compliance systems is typically required, and professional certifications like Professional Engineer (PE) or Certified Floodplain Manager (CFM) can be advantageous. Strong leadership, problem-solving, and stakeholder communication skills set outstanding candidates apart in this role. These capabilities are crucial for ensuring sustainable water resource management, regulatory adherence, and effective collaboration among diverse agencies and communities.

What does a water resource manager do?

A water resource manager oversees the planning, development, and management of water resources to ensure sustainable supply and quality. They analyze data, develop policies, and coordinate with agencies to address water-related issues, often using tools like GIS and requiring relevant certifications. Their work typically involves environmental assessment, regulatory compliance, and stakeholder communication.

What does a Water Resources Manager do?

A Water Resources Manager is responsible for overseeing the planning, development, and management of water resources to ensure sustainable use and compliance with environmental regulations. They analyze water supply and demand, develop strategies for conservation, and coordinate with government agencies, stakeholders, and the public. Their work often involves assessing the impact of projects on water systems, managing water quality, and preparing for issues like drought or flooding. Water Resources Managers play a critical role in ensuring that communities have access to safe and reliable water supplies while protecting natural ecosystems.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

Water Resources Managers typically require a degree and specialized training, so they do not usually earn $4,000 a week without one. However, some high-paying trades such as commercial pilots, real estate brokers, or sales managers can earn that level of income through experience, commissions, or certifications without a college degree. These roles often demand specific skills, licenses, or extensive experience in their fields.

Is water resource management a good career?

Water resources management is a vital field that involves planning, developing, and managing water resources to meet community needs and ensure sustainability. It often requires knowledge of environmental science, engineering, and policy, with professionals working in government agencies, consulting firms, or environmental organizations. The career offers opportunities for impact, job stability, and advancement, especially with increasing focus on water conservation and climate resilience.

What is the difference between Water Resources Manager vs Hydrologist?

AspectWater Resources ManagerHydrologist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Environmental Science, Civil Engineering, or related field; often certifications in water managementBachelor's or Master's in Hydrology, Geology, or Earth Sciences; often licensure or certification in hydrology
Work EnvironmentGovernment agencies, consulting firms, water utilities; project management and policy focusResearch institutions, government agencies, environmental consulting; fieldwork and data analysis
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in water resource planning, management, and policy developmentUsed in studying water cycles, modeling, and environmental impact assessments

While both roles involve water and environmental expertise, Water Resources Managers focus on planning, policy, and managing water systems, whereas Hydrologists primarily conduct scientific research and data analysis related to water cycles and environmental impacts.

What are some common challenges Water Resources Managers face when coordinating between multiple stakeholders?

Water Resources Managers often navigate complex relationships among government agencies, private organizations, and community groups, each with distinct priorities and regulatory requirements. Balancing the demands for water supply, environmental conservation, and economic interests can be challenging, especially during periods of drought or water scarcity. Successful managers use strong communication and negotiation skills to facilitate collaboration, ensure compliance, and implement sustainable solutions that benefit all parties. Building consensus and maintaining transparency are key to overcoming these challenges.

How to become a water resource manager?

To become a water resource manager, typically a bachelor's degree in environmental science, civil engineering, or a related field is required, often followed by relevant work experience. Professional certifications such as the Certified Water Professional (CWP) or state-specific licenses can enhance job prospects, and strong skills in data analysis, project management, and environmental regulations are important for success.
What are popular job titles related to Water Resources Manager jobs in Reston, VA? For Water Resources Manager jobs in Reston, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Water Resources Manager jobs in Reston, VA look for? The top searched job categories for Water Resources Manager jobs in Reston, VA are:
What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Water Resources Manager jobs? Cities near Reston, VA with the most Water Resources Manager job openings:
Infographic showing various Water Resources Manager job openings in Reston, VA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $84,973 per year, or $40.9 per hour.

Water Resources Engineer

HDR

Vienna, VA • On-site

$79K - $108K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 22 days ago


HDR rating

9.1

Company rating: 9.1 out of 10

Based on 57 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

39th of 443 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.
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
  • Experience with HEC-1, HEC-HMS, HEC-RAS, GEO-RAS, storm drain system analysis
  • Preference given to local candidates

*LI-MJ1
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.

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