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

Water Resources Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site

$82K - $127K/yr

Conduct technical design for a variety of water resources transportation projects including stormwater management, drainage design, erosion and sediment control design, and stream restoration designs.

Water Resources Engineer

Herndon, VA · Hybrid

$82K - $127K/yr

Conduct technical design for a variety of water resources transportation projects including stormwater management, drainage design, erosion and sediment control design, and stream restoration designs.

Water Resources Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site

$82K - $127K/yr

Conduct technical design for a variety of water resources transportation projects including stormwater management, drainage design, erosion and sediment control design, and stream restoration designs.

Water Resources Engineer

Herndon, VA · Hybrid

$82K - $127K/yr

Conduct technical design for a variety of water resources transportation projects including stormwater management, drainage design, erosion and sediment control design, and stream restoration designs.

Water Resources Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site

$82K - $127K/yr

Conduct technical design for a variety of water resources transportation projects including stormwater management, drainage design, erosion and sediment control design, and stream restoration designs.

Water Resources Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site

$82K - $127K/yr

Conduct technical design for a variety of water resources transportation projects including stormwater management, drainage design, erosion and sediment control design, and stream restoration designs.

Water Resources Engineer

Gainesville, VA · On-site

$95K - $122K/yr

Typical projects involve stormwater management design, stream restoration / natural channel design ... Our Gainesville Water Resources group serves a wide range of municipal, state, and private sector ...

Typical projects involve stormwater management design, stream restoration / natural channel design ... Our Gainesville Water Resources group serves a wide range of municipal, state, and private sector ...

New

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 · 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

Gainesville, VA · On-site

$95K - $122K/yr

Typical projects involve stormwater management design, stream restoration / natural channel design ... Our Gainesville Water Resources group serves a wide range of municipal, state, and private sector ...

New

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

Fairfax, VA · Hybrid

$78K - $107K/yr

Conduct watershed and stormwater management planning and design; * Perform water quality and ... resources engineering experience; * Strong working knowledge of Virginia Department of ...

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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 Sep 15, 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 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 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 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.

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.

How do you become a water resources manager?

To become a water resources manager, individuals typically need a bachelor's degree in environmental science, civil engineering, hydrology, or a related field. Gaining experience through internships or entry-level positions and obtaining professional certifications, such as a Professional Engineer (PE) license or Certified Water Resources Engineer credential, can enhance career prospects. Strong analytical, communication, and project management skills are also important in this role.

Is water management a good career?

A Water Resources Manager oversees the planning, development, and management of water systems, requiring skills in environmental science, engineering, and policy. It is a stable career with opportunities in government agencies, consulting firms, and utilities, often involving fieldwork and data analysis. Certification and a relevant degree can enhance job prospects in this field.

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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $84,973 per year, or $40.9 per hour.

Senior Water Resources Manager- Modeling

Chantilly, VA

Full-time

Posted 20 days ago


Job description

GKY, a part of True Environmental and its partner firms, have united their strengths to establish the nation's premier environmental and engineering services consulting firm. This powerhouse organization offers an extensive range of services aimed at revolutionizing the built environment and preserving the natural one. Its diverse expertise encompasses environmental remediation, urban planning, engineering iconic coastal and marine structures, developing sustainable energy sources, and pioneering resource extraction methods. With a workforce of over 700 dedicated professionals, including environmental experts, engineers, technicians, scientists, planners, surveyors, and construction management professionals, this dynamic organization operates in more than 25 offices across the U.S. Explore further at GKY.com and True-Environmental.com to discover the full scope of our capabilities. 

You will manage and perform the engineering duties required for water resources projects. The position includes “doing” as well as “managing”, and most of our projects support municipal clients throughout the Commonwealth of Virginia.

If you are a highly motivated individual, this is an opportunity to grow professionally and go as far as your ambition, dedication, and work ethic will take you.

What you'll do
  • Manage water resources projects
  • Provide technical leadership and assistance on projects
  • Develop and maintain client relationships
  • Prepare proposals
  • Mentor engineering staff
Minimum Qualifications
  • Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, with course work in water resources (including hydrology and hydraulics)
  • 10+ years of professional experience in performing and managing water resources projects
  • Proven track record of business development with a demonstrated ability to generate new leads and bring in new client work.
  • Licensed Professional Engineer in VA or the ability to attain a PE License in VA within 3-6 months.
  • Experience with hydrologic and hydraulic modeling with swmm, HEC-RAS, and HEC-HMS (2D SWMM preferred)
  • Experience with client service management
  • Experience with FEMA floodplain management
  • Experience with mapping and data analysis using ArcGIS
  • Experience with contract and task order management
  • Be dependable, responsible, and have good communications skills
  • Must have a valid driver’s license, ability to pass a DMV record check, and be insurable
Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience working with Virginia municipalities
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status.