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Water Resources Planner Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Broad experience in water utility planning and water supply development, including water quality ... Familiarity with Texas water resources regulations, groundwater management, and water utility ...

Water Resources Engineer

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$77K - $105K/yr

Conduct water resources planning, plan formulation and concept development, and develop planning documentation * Assist in water resources permitting efforts * Perform other duties as needed ...

Water Resources Engineer

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$77K - $105K/yr

Conduct water resources planning, plan formulation and concept development, and develop planning documentation * Assist in water resources permitting efforts * Perform other duties as needed ...

Water Resources Engineer

Vienna, VA · On-site

$79K - $108K/yr

Conduct water resources planning, plan formulation and concept development, and develop planning documentation * Assist in water resources permitting efforts * Perform other duties as needed ...

Water Resources Engineer

Vienna, VA · On-site

$79K - $108K/yr

Conduct water resources planning, plan formulation and concept development, and develop planning documentation * Assist in water resources permitting efforts * Perform other duties as needed ...

Water Resources Engineer

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$77K - $105K/yr

Conduct water resources planning, plan formulation and concept development, and develop planning documentation * Assist in water resources permitting efforts * Perform other duties as needed ...

Water Resources Engineer

Vienna, VA · On-site

$79K - $108K/yr

Conduct water resources planning, plan formulation and concept development, and develop planning documentation * Assist in water resources permitting efforts * Perform other duties as needed ...

Showing results 41-60

Water Resources Planner information

See salary details

$33K

$69.6K

$113K

How much do water resources planner jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for water resources planner in the United States is $69,591.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $54,000.00 and $81,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a water resources planner?

Water Resources Planners are professionals who develop strategies and plans for the management, allocation, and conservation of water resources. They work with government agencies, engineering firms, and other organizations to ensure sustainable water use for communities, agriculture, industry, and the environment. Their responsibilities often include analyzing water supply and demand, assessing environmental impacts, and coordinating with stakeholders to balance competing needs. Water Resources Planners play a crucial role in addressing issues such as drought, flooding, water pollution, and the effects of climate change.

How does a water resources planner typically collaborate with engineers and environmental scientists on projects?

Water Resources Planners often work closely with civil engineers, hydrologists, and environmental scientists to develop comprehensive water management strategies. Planners are responsible for integrating technical data, regulatory requirements, and community needs into project proposals and long-term plans. Collaboration usually involves regular team meetings, joint field assessments, and coordinated review of impact studies to ensure that proposed solutions are both practical and sustainable. Effective communication and teamwork are essential, as planners frequently act as a bridge between technical experts and stakeholders such as government agencies and the public.

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

To thrive as a Water Resources Planner, you need a background in environmental science, hydrology, or civil engineering, often supported by a relevant bachelor's or master's degree. Familiarity with GIS software, hydrologic modeling tools, and regulatory frameworks such as the Clean Water Act is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, project management, and effective communication are vital soft skills for collaborating with stakeholders and conveying technical information. These skills ensure sustainable water management, regulatory compliance, and successful coordination of complex water resource projects.

What is the difference between Water Resources Planner vs Hydrologist?

AspectWater Resources PlannerHydrologist
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in environmental science, civil engineering, or related field; often requires GIS and planning certificationsBachelor's or master's degree in hydrology, geology, or related field; often requires specialized hydrologic modeling skills
Work EnvironmentGovernment agencies, consulting firms, environmental organizations; focus on planning and managementResearch institutions, government agencies, environmental consulting; focus on studying water systems
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in water management, urban planning, environmental policyUsed in water research, environmental assessment, natural resource management

While both roles involve water systems, Water Resources Planners focus on developing strategies for sustainable water use and management, often working on projects and policies. Hydrologists primarily study water movement and distribution through scientific research. Both careers require related educational backgrounds and often collaborate in water resource projects.

More about Water Resources Planner jobs

Who are the top companies hiring for Water Resources Planner jobs?

The top employers for Water Resources Planner jobs are:

What states have the most Water Resources Planner jobs?

States with the most job openings for Water Resources Planner jobs include:

Infographic showing various Water Resources Planner job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $69,591 per year, or $33.5 per hour.

Water Resources Planning- Practice Lead

Kimley-Horn

Fort Worth, TX • On-site

$75K - $103K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 10 days ago


Kimley-Horn rating

8.9

Company rating: 8.9 out of 10

Based on 86 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

54th of 449 rated engineering


Job description

Overview

Kimley-Horn has an opportunity for a motivated leader to grow our water resources planning group across Texas. 

Responsibilities
  • Providing engineering services related to water resources planning, permitting, water availability modeling, water rights, and environmental flow studies.
  • Specialties: surface water hydrology, water resources planning and management, environmental flow studies, water availability modeling, modeling of rivers, lakes, and estuaries, statistical analysis, data analysis for marine and aquatic systems.
  • Leadership responsibilities include:
    • Operating with integrity and sound business principals
    • Providing vision, business planning and strategy
    • Establishing goals
    • Building and maintaining positive client relationships
    • Having open communication with your partners and team
  • Our Project Managers/Practice Builders manage their projects profitably, transition work to qualified staff, grow and mentor staff, and act as a positive leader and mentor
  • The successful candidate will be given a great deal of autonomy to lead, direct, and grow their business
  • With success, this individual will enjoy the rewards of an impressive bonus program with the potential to advance to ownership
Qualifications
  • 10+ years of civil engineering, design, and management of water resources planning projects
  • Registered Professional Engineer (P.E.) license 
  • Client contacts and relationships with local municipalities, area counties, water management authorities and local, regional, state agencies
  • Business development skills and the proven ability to win work
  • Excellent communication, leadership, and technical skills
  • Strong desire and ability to be engaged with clients solving project problems
  • Ability to effectively communicate positively at all levels of the organization
  • Ability to manage and mentor staff and direct resources effectively in a positive manner
  • Demonstrated ability to manage projects profitably
Why Kimley-Horn?

At Kimley-Horn, we do things differently. People, clients, and employees are at the forefront of who we are. Clients know we prioritize achieving their goals and growing their success. Employees know our culture and approach to business are built on a desire to provide an environment for everyone to flourish. Our commitment to quality is only as good as the people behind it- that's why we welcome and develop passionate, hardworking, and proactive employees. We take pride in how our employee retention, robust benefits package, and company values have led to Kimley-Horn's placement on the Fortune "100 Best Companies to Work" list for 19 years!

Key Benefits at Kimley-Horn

  • Exceptional Retirement Plan: 2-to1- company match on up to 4% of eligible compensation (salary + bonus) and additional profit-sharing contribution.
  • Comprehensive Health Coverage: Low-cost medical, dental, and vision insurance options.
  • Time Off: Personal leave, flexible scheduling, floating holidays, and half-day Fridays.
  • Financial Wellness: Student loan matching in our 401(k), and performance-based bonuses.
  • Professional Development: Tuition reimbursement and extensive internal training programs.
  • Family-Friendly Benefits: New Parent Leave, family building benefits, and childcare resources.
Education:Bachelor's DegreeEmployment Type: FULL_TIME

What Kimley-Horn employees say

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About Kimley-Horn

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

We are a full-service consulting firm that provides a wide range of infrastructure and land development planning and engineering services to both public and private clients. Though we have more than 6,000 employees in 100+ offices, we pride ourselves on our small company feel. At Kimley-Horn, we do things differently. People--clients and employees--are at the forefront of our business. Clients know we are laser-focused on their success. Employees know our culture and approach to business are built on a desire to see our staff flourish, one and all. Both groups know that with Kimley-Horn, they can expect more and experience better.

Industry

Specialized design services

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Raleigh, NC, US

Year founded

1967