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Water Wastewater Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Water/Wastewater Engineer

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$65K - $190K/yr

Water/Wastewater Engineer Department: Water/Wastewater Employment Type: Full Time Location: Des Moines, IA Compensation: $65,000 - $190,000 / year Description Founded in 1973, ISG is a multi ...

Water/Wastewater Engineer Department: Water/Wastewater Employment Type: Full Time Location: St. Louis Park, MN Compensation: $65,000 - $190,000 / year Description Founded in 1973, ISG is a multi ...

Water/Wastewater Engineer Department: Water/Wastewater Employment Type: Full Time Location: Sioux Falls, SD Compensation: $65,000 - $190,000 / year Description Founded in 1973, ISG is a multi ...

Water/Wastewater Engineer

Storm Lake, IA · On-site

$65K - $190K/yr

Water/Wastewater Engineer Department: Water/Wastewater Employment Type: Full Time Location: Storm Lake, IA Compensation: $65,000 - $190,000 / year Description Founded in 1973, ISG is a multi ...

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Water Wastewater Engineer information

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$51K

$100.2K

$138.5K

How much do water wastewater engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for water wastewater engineer in the United States is $100,181.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $76,000.00 and $123,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges Water Wastewater Engineers face when working on municipal infrastructure projects?

Water Wastewater Engineers often encounter challenges related to aging infrastructure, strict regulatory requirements, and limited budgets. Balancing the need for upgrading outdated systems with environmental compliance and public health standards requires creative problem-solving and strong project management skills. Additionally, coordinating with multidisciplinary teams—such as planners, contractors, and government agencies—is essential to ensure project success and community satisfaction.

What engineers make $200,000 a year?

Senior Water Wastewater Engineers with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and specialized skills can earn $200,000 or more annually, especially in high-demand regions or with leadership responsibilities. Achieving this salary often requires a combination of technical expertise, project management, and industry reputation.

What is the difference between Water Wastewater Engineer vs Civil Engineer?

AspectWater Wastewater EngineerCivil Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Environmental or Civil Engineering, PE license often preferredBachelor's in Civil Engineering, PE license often required
Work EnvironmentDesigning, planning, and managing water and wastewater systemsDesigning infrastructure like roads, bridges, and water supply systems
Industry UsagePrimarily in water treatment, environmental agencies, and utility companiesConstruction, transportation, and urban development sectors

Water Wastewater Engineers focus on water and wastewater systems, ensuring safe and efficient water management. Civil Engineers have a broader scope, including infrastructure projects beyond water systems. Both roles require similar credentials and often work within the same industry sectors, but their specific responsibilities differ significantly.

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

To thrive as a Water Wastewater Engineer, you need a strong background in civil, environmental, or chemical engineering, often supported by a relevant engineering degree and Professional Engineer (PE) licensure. Familiarity with water treatment technologies, hydraulic modeling software (such as AutoCAD and WaterCAD), and regulatory compliance systems is essential. Strong problem-solving abilities, project management skills, and effective communication help engineers collaborate with multidisciplinary teams and stakeholders. These skills and qualifications are vital to ensure the safe, efficient, and regulatory-compliant management of water resources and infrastructure.

What does a water wastewater engineer do?

A water wastewater engineer designs, develops, and maintains systems for the treatment and distribution of drinking water and the removal of wastewater. They analyze water quality data, ensure compliance with environmental regulations, and use tools like CAD software. The role often requires knowledge of treatment processes, environmental standards, and relevant certifications.

What engineers make $500,000?

Highly experienced engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can earn $500,000 or more annually, often through a combination of base salary, bonuses, and stock options. Achieving this level typically requires advanced skills, extensive experience, and working in high-demand industries or leadership roles.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior Water Wastewater Engineers with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and leadership roles can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $300,000 annually, especially in high-cost-of-living areas or with specialized expertise. Such compensation often includes bonuses, profit sharing, or other incentives, and typically requires advanced degrees and significant industry experience.
More about Water Wastewater Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Water Wastewater Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Water Wastewater Engineer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Water Wastewater Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Water Wastewater Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Water Wastewater Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Water Wastewater Engineer jobs include:
Infographic showing various Water Wastewater Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $100,181 per year, or $48.2 per hour.
Water/Wastewater Engineer

Water/Wastewater Engineer

ISG

Des Moines, IA • On-site

$65K - $190K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 29 days ago


Job description

Water/Wastewater Engineer
Department: Water/Wastewater
Employment Type: Full Time
Location: Des Moines, IA
Compensation: $65,000 - $190,000 / year
Description
Founded in 1973, ISG is a multi-disciplinary, full-service architecture, engineering, planning, and interior design firm, supporting clients throughout the nation. ISG is looking to add a Water/Wastewater Engineer to our dynamic engineering team. As a Water/Wastewater Engineer, you will make a real difference for Municipal and Industrial clients across the U.S., contributing to projects that improve lives and communities. We are a full-service, multi-disciplinary team, who perform award winning work in planning, design, survey, and construction.
You will work alongside industry leaders, Casey Patton, PE, Water/Wastewater Practice Group Leader, and Brian Hiles, Senior Water/Wastewater Engineer, along with several other innovative Wastewater professionals.
Essential Duties
  • Develop comprehensive plans for water distribution networks, wastewater collection systems, and treatment facilities
  • Design key infrastructure components including pumping stations, pipelines, lift stations, and storage tanks
  • Perform hydraulic modeling and hydrological analyses to support system design and optimization
  • Lead cross-functional teams through all phases of project delivery-from planning and design to construction and commissioning
  • Prepare detailed technical reports, cost estimates, and construction documentation
  • Manage project timelines, budgets, and compliance with regulatory standards
  • Provide technical guidance during construction and operational phases to ensure quality and performance
  • Diagnose system issues and propose effective engineering solutions
  • Conduct feasibility studies and environmental impact assessments
  • Ensure all designs adhere to federal, state, and local regulations
  • Prepare environmental documentation and facilitate permitting processes
  • Collaborate with municipalities, utility providers, developers, and government agencies
  • Translate complex technical concepts into clear, accessible information for non-technical stakeholders

As an ISG employee owner, you will continue to grow in your career. You'll learn from us, and we'll learn from you. You'll have the freedom and autonomy to do your best work with plenty of support along the way. Our culture is essential to our success and your engagement in it.
Here are some projects we've worked on recently that might give you a better sense of what you'll be doing day to day:
  • Clarion Water Treatment System
  • Hartford, SD Reclamation Facility Improvements

We've listed a compensation range that reflects our expectations for this role, including both direct and indirect components. We understand that your experience and value may fall outside of this range. If you feel you're a strong fit but your compensation needs differ, we're open to a conversation-let's talk.
Skills, Knowledge and Expertise
  • Bachelor's degree in Civil, Environmental, or Chemical Engineering
  • Professional Engineer (PE) license or Engineer-in-Training (EIT) certification
  • 4-10+ years in water/wastewater design and computerized drafting of new and rehabilitated water treatment facilities, groundwater wells, water storage facilities, water distribution systems, pumping stations, wastewater treatment facilities, collection systems, and lift stations.
  • Familiarity with AutoCAD, GIS, hydraulic modeling software, and Microsoft Office
  • Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills
  • Ability to work independently and in teams
  • Knowledge of industry standards

ISG Employee Owner Benefits
  • Medical, dental, and vision
  • Paid time off, pro-rated amount available on your start date
  • Paid holidays and paid volunteer time
  • Paid parental leave
  • Bi-annual profit sharing
  • Employee Ownership Stock Plan (ESOP)
  • 401K retirement plan
  • Life insurance
  • HSA and FSA options
  • Bereavement leave
  • Supplemental voluntary benefits
  • Short term and long-term disability
  • Parking reimbursement, varies on office location
  • Cell phone plan reimbursement
  • Mileage reimbursement for ISG-approved travel