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Water Science Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Water Resources Project Manager

Rockville, MD ยท On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Water Resources Project Manager will manage AMT engineers and scientists, interface directly with clients and be responsible for task and budget management. This position will involve field and ...

Water Infrastructure Engineer, AWS Water Team

Arlington, VA ยท On-site

$123K - $162K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

AWS Water Infrastructure Engineer - US East About AWS Infrastructure AWS Infrastructure owns the ... You'll join a diverse team of engineers, scientists, planners, and operations managers to deliver ...

Showing results 21-40

Water Science information

See Washington salary details

$27.7K

$54.8K

$89.5K

How much do water science jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for water science in Washington is $54,807.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43,600.00 and $58,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is water science?

Water science is the study of water, including its properties, distribution, movement, and quality in the environment. It encompasses disciplines such as hydrology, hydrogeology, and water resource management. Water scientists analyze water samples, monitor water systems, and develop solutions for water conservation and pollution prevention. Their work is crucial for ensuring safe drinking water, sustainable water use, and protecting aquatic ecosystems.

What are some common challenges faced by water scientists when conducting field research?

Water scientists often encounter challenges such as unpredictable weather conditions, difficult terrain, and limited access to remote sampling sites during field research. Additionally, ensuring the accuracy and reliability of samples can be complex due to contamination risks or equipment malfunctions. Collaboration with local authorities and stakeholders is frequently necessary to gain site access and gather comprehensive data. These challenges require adaptability, strong problem-solving skills, and effective communication to ensure successful research outcomes.

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

To thrive as a Water Scientist, you need a strong background in environmental science, hydrology, chemistry, or a related field, typically with at least a bachelor's or master's degree. Familiarity with water quality testing equipment, GIS software, and data analysis tools is often required, along with certifications such as Certified Hydrologist or equivalent. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills help distinguish top performers in this role. These qualifications ensure accurate assessment of water resources, inform policy decisions, and support sustainable water management practices.

What is the difference between Water Science vs Water Quality Technician?

AspectWater ScienceWater Quality Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in environmental science, hydrology, or related fieldAssociate's or bachelor's degree in environmental science, chemistry, or related field
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, field sites, environmental agenciesWater treatment plants, laboratories, field sampling sites
Employer & Industry UsageEnvironmental consulting, government agencies, research institutionsMunicipal water treatment facilities, environmental testing labs

Water Science involves studying water systems, conducting research, and analyzing water data, often in research or policy roles. Water Quality Technicians focus on testing and monitoring water quality at treatment plants or field sites. While both roles require knowledge of water analysis, Water Science emphasizes research and data interpretation, whereas Water Quality Technicians concentrate on sample collection and lab testing.

How much money does a water scientist make?

Water scientists typically earn a median annual salary of around $60,000 to $80,000, depending on experience, education, and location. Advanced roles or those with specialized skills in hydrology or environmental analysis can earn higher salaries, especially with additional certifications or fieldwork experience.

What can I do with a water science degree?

A water science degree prepares individuals for careers in environmental consulting, water resource management, research, and policy development. Graduates often work for government agencies, environmental organizations, or private companies, utilizing skills in data analysis, field sampling, and environmental regulations.

What does a water scientist do?

A water scientist studies the quality, distribution, and movement of water in natural and urban environments. They analyze water samples, use modeling tools, and develop solutions for water management, conservation, and pollution control. Their work often involves fieldwork, laboratory analysis, and data interpretation to support environmental protection and public health.

What are popular job titles related to Water Science jobs in Washington?

For Water Science jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Washington are hiring for Water Science jobs?

Cities in Washington with the most Water Science job openings:

Infographic showing various Water Science job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 77% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 21% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,807 per year, or $26.3 per hour.

Senior Water/Wastewater Engineer

Whitman, Requardt & Associates, LLP

Fairfax, VA โ€ข On-site

$160K - $240K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 7 days ago


Job description

At Whitman, Requardt & Associates, LLP, we are "People Focused and Project Driven". We have been in business for more than 110 years and we are known for our quality work and quality employees. This is your chance to join our team - help us to design the infrastructure and buildings that improve the world!

We are seeking an experienced water/wastewater engineer with progressive experience in water and wastewater system planning, hydraulic modeling, design and construction management, of water and wastewater facilities, pipelines, water storage tanks, pumping stations, force mains, and the evaluation, design and rehabilitation of sanitary sewer systems.

Responsibilities:

The successful candidate is expected to be able to independently work on technical tasks with minimum supervision, lead and coordinate technical tasks and, when appropriate, serve as the project design lead. The successful candidate will also support the preparation of technical proposals in particular the development of technical approaches. Successful candidates will demonstrate excellent oral and written communications skills, as well as presentation skills, and the ability to mentor and train younger engineering staff.

  • Manage, plan, and provide design oversight of water/wastewater projects.
  • Prepare and monitor project budgets, successfully manage and deliver projects on time and on budget, while meeting quality requirements
  • Responsible for control of work-in-progress and ensure accurate client billings on projects
  • Participate in construction phase management, including pre-bid conferences, interpretations and post-bid evaluations and contract preparation
  • Participate in pre-project presentations and interviews
  • Lead project planning efforts from procurement and negotiation through execution and closeout, while continuing to monitor project status and control execution to achieve project goals

Requirements:

  • Bachelor of Science degree in Civil or Environmental Engineering from an ABET accredited program
  • 16+ years of progressive experience in water and wastewater system planning, design and construction management
  • P.E., registered in the Commonwealth of Virginia or ability to become registered through comity from another state within 6 months
  • Experience working with AutoCAD and/or MicroStation
  • NASSCO experience a plus

Benefits:

WRA recognizes that employees play an important role in its success. Our commitment to full-time employees is reflected in the comprehensive benefits package we offer:

  • Flexible work schedule options
  • Competitive salary
  • Leave accrual and paid holidays
  • Healthcare benefits
  • Group Life Insurance, as well as additional optional life Insurance, short and long term disability insurance
  • Flexible spending accounts for medical and dependent care reimbursement
  • 401(k) Retirement Plan
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Parental and maternity leave benefits

WRA is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer and complies with all applicable anti-discrimination laws.

The expected compensation range for this position is $160,000.00 - $240,000.00. This range represents a good faith estimate for this position. The specific compensation offered to a candidate may vary based on factors including, but not limited to, the candidate’s relevant knowledge, training, skills, work location, and/or experience.

Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis without the need for employment-based visa sponsorship now or in the future. WRA will not sponsor applicants for U.S. work visa status for this opportunity. (no sponsorship is available for H-1B, L-1, TN, O-1, E-3, H-1B1, F-1, J-1, OPT, CPT or any other employment-based visa)

Position # 3276

#LI-Onsite #LI-Senior Level