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Watershed Management Jobs (NOW HIRING)

WATERSHED COORDINATOR

Columbia, SC · On-site

$53K - $82K/yr

Attends watershed and environmental meetings related to compliance and citizen outreach as needed ... Manages Stormwater utility fee / impervious area programs, including GIS updates for impervious ...

Watershed Environmental Supervisor

Laurel, MD · On-site

$116K - $120K/yr

Monitors and manages various environmental and maintenance contracts and agreements pertaining to the watershed (e.g. logging, forestry, archaeology, hay contract, dredging, portable toilets, lawn ...

WATERSHED COORDINATOR

Columbia, SC · On-site

$53K - $82K/yr

Attends watershed and environmental meetings related to compliance and citizen outreach as needed ... Manages Stormwater utility fee / impervious area programs, including GIS updates for impervious ...

Support development of long- and short-range watershed management programs * Interpret and implement policies, regulations, and program directives * Provide recommendations to support Forest Plan ...

Strong understanding of surface water hydrology, groundwater systems, watershed management, and floodplain analysis. * Knowledge of federal, state, and local environmental regulations related to ...

Strong understanding of surface water hydrology, groundwater systems, watershed management, and floodplain analysis. * Knowledge of federal, state, and local environmental regulations related to ...

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Watershed Management information

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$17K

$59.8K

$149K

How much do watershed management jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for watershed management in the United States is $59,779.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39,000.00 and $64,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What jobs will no longer exist in 2030?

In watershed management, roles such as manual field surveyors and traditional water quality testers may decline due to automation, remote sensing, and advanced data analysis tools. Jobs requiring routine data collection or basic environmental monitoring are likely to be replaced or transformed by technology, emphasizing skills in GIS, remote sensing, and data analysis. However, specialized roles involving complex ecosystem management and policy development are expected to persist.

What is watershed management?

Watershed management refers to the process of planning and implementing land use practices and water management strategies to protect and improve the quality and quantity of water resources within a watershed. This involves coordinating conservation efforts, controlling pollution, and managing water flow to support healthy ecosystems and communities. Effective watershed management helps prevent flooding, maintain water quality, and sustain resources for agriculture, recreation, and drinking water supply.

What does a watershed manager do?

A watershed manager oversees the protection and restoration of watersheds by monitoring water quality, managing land use, and implementing conservation practices. They often collaborate with government agencies, environmental organizations, and communities, and may use tools like GIS and water testing equipment to assess and improve watershed health.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in Watershed Management, and why are they important?

To thrive in Watershed Management, a strong background in environmental science, hydrology, and natural resource management—often with a relevant degree—is essential. Familiarity with GIS software, water quality monitoring tools, and regulatory compliance systems is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, collaboration, and communication skills help professionals engage stakeholders and develop sustainable solutions. These skills ensure effective management of water resources, compliance with environmental laws, and the protection of ecosystems and communities.

How much do watershed managers make?

Watershed managers 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 environmental science or GIS may offer higher compensation, and some positions may include additional benefits such as fieldwork or project management responsibilities.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

In watershed management, high-paying roles such as environmental consultants or project managers can sometimes reach $4,000 weekly, especially with extensive experience, certifications, or specialized skills. These positions often require strong knowledge of environmental regulations, fieldwork, and project oversight, but may not always require a formal degree if experience and expertise are demonstrated.

What is the difference between Watershed Management vs Hydrologist?

AspectWatershed ManagementHydrologist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Environmental Science, Civil Engineering, or related fieldsBachelor's or Master's in Hydrology, Geology, or related fields; often requires specialized certifications
Work EnvironmentFieldwork, environmental agencies, consulting firmsResearch institutions, government agencies, consulting firms
Industry UsageFocuses on managing entire watersheds, including land use and water qualityFocuses on studying water movement, distribution, and properties

Watershed Management involves planning and implementing strategies to protect and restore entire watersheds, often requiring knowledge of land use and water quality. Hydrologists primarily study water movement and properties, providing data essential for watershed decisions. While both roles collaborate, Watershed Management emphasizes ecosystem and community health, whereas Hydrologists focus on scientific analysis of water systems.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in watershed management, and how are they typically addressed?

Professionals in watershed management often encounter challenges such as balancing competing land and water use interests, addressing non-point source pollution, and navigating complex regulatory frameworks. These challenges are typically managed through collaborative stakeholder engagement, implementing best management practices, and utilizing data-driven decision-making tools. Regular communication with local communities, government agencies, and environmental groups is essential to develop effective, sustainable watershed plans and adapt to changing environmental conditions.
More about Watershed Management jobs
What cities are hiring for Watershed Management jobs? Cities with the most Watershed Management job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Watershed Management jobs? The most popular types of Watershed Management jobs are:
What states have the most Watershed Management jobs? States with the most job openings for Watershed Management jobs include:
WATERSHED COORDINATOR

WATERSHED COORDINATOR

City of Columbia

Columbia, SC • On-site

$53K - $82K/yr

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

Description This position performs technical engineering and/or environmental work related to compliance with the City Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) Permit, as well as work in the design, development and implementation of City storm drainage projects; and performs related work as required. The incumbent works within a general outline of work to be performed, and develops work methods and sequences under general supervision The work is considered moderate-to-difficult in nature and involves walking or standing virtually all of the time and also involves exerting between 20 and 50 pounds of force on a recurring basis, or considerable skill, adeptness and speed in the use of fingers, hands or limbs in tasks involving close tolerances or limits of accuracy. The work requires the following physical abilities to perform the essential job functions: fingering, grasping, handling, hearing, kneeling, lifting, mental acuity, pulling, pushing, reaching, repetitive motion, speaking, stooping, talking, visual acuity, and walking.

Investigating City streams in steep, thickly vegetated terrain in hot and humid conditions is also involved. There is a potential for exposure to biting or stinging insects, as well as other wildlife. Work environment may involve exposure to bright / dim light, extreme heat and/or cold, wet or humid conditions, dusts and pollen, fumes and/or noxious odors, traffic, toxic / caustic chemicals; and is dynamic that requires sensitivity to change and responsiveness to changing goals, priorities, and needs.

Essential Job Functions Writes and updates Watershed Management Plans to stay in MS4 compliance as well as apply for 319 grants; Attends watershed and environmental meetings related to compliance and citizen outreach as needed; Attends technical conferences and trainings as needed; Delineates streams and wetlands; Manages Stormwater utility fee / impervious area programs, including GIS updates for impervious areas in the City, provides guidance to other GIS users in making impervious area determinations, and answers questions to customers regarding utility fee billing; Performs outfall identification and environmental assessments for streams within City limits or jurisdiction; Coordinates and monitors the work of engineers, developers, contractors, and Army Corps of Engineers to ensure all storm water management facilities and construction work is in accordance with plans, specifications and regulations; Attends and participates in pre-construction meetings; Responds to citizen inquiries, complaints, and requests for assistance regarding the operation and maintenance of storm water management facilities and other drainage issues; Analyzes and interprets problems and develops solutions for operational or technical problems associated with the environmental compliance of the City's storm water structures; Coordinates with City staff, other agency staff, consultants, and contractors to resolve on-site deficiencies; Inputs, manages, and utilizes inspection and other data and communications using database and Geographic Information System (GIS); Reads plans and specifications to evaluate consistency with actual construction; Schedules inspections, communications, and follow-up investigations for stormwater management to all construction within the City for verification with compliance, as needed; Reviews, processes, and conducts investigations concerning alleged storm water violations as well as implements and maintains stormwater tracking with multiple departments staff; Reports and coordinates verbal and/or written reports with respect to enforcement activities and significant problems promptly to the Stormwater Manager; Maintains records relative to inspections, enforcement activities, and field data collection, both electronic and paper; Performs a variety of field and office work necessary to implement and ensure compliance with the City's Stormwater Management Plan, ordinance and state and federal water quality requirements, as it relates to the operation and maintenance of storm water facilities and the quality/quantity of storm water runoff; Creates, implements, and presents violation abatement programs related to the use of best management practices (BMP's), such as sediment and erosion control training and education programs (alternative enforcement); Performs general administrative work as required, including attending meetings, preparing records and reports, entering and retrieving computer data, etc.; Attends meetings, training, seminars, etc., as necessary to maintain and enhance job knowledge and skills and to remain current on regulatory requirements; and Performs other related duties as assigned. Qualifications MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS TO PERFORM WORK: Associate's degree in engineering, environmental science or closely related field; Four (4) years of relevant prior experience; One (1) year of experience directly related to Watershed management planning, impervious audits, or 319 grants; Valid South Carolina Class "D" Driver's License; Must have or be able to obtain a South Carolina Erosion Prevention and Sediment Control Inspector (CEPSCI) certification within one (1) year from date of hire or promotion. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Knowledge of basic algebra involving variables and formulas and/or basic geometry involving plane and solid figures, circumferences, areas and volumes, and/or computing discounts and interest rates; Ability to gather, organize, analyze, examine or evaluate data or information and may prescribe action based on such data or information; Ability to speak or signal to people to convey or exchange information of a general nature; Ability to handle or use machines, tools or equipment requiring moderate instruction and experience, such as fire hydrants and testing equipment; Ability to perform skilled work involving rules/systems with almost constant problem-solving; Ability to read technical instructions, procedures, manuals and charts to solve practical problems; composing routine reports and specialized reports, forms and business letters with proper format; speaking compound sentences using normal grammar and word form; Ability to perform clerical, manual or technical tasks requiring a wide range of procedures and requiring intensive understanding of a restricted field or complete familiarity with the functions of a unit or small division of an operating agency; requires normal attention with short periods of concentration for accurate results or occasional exposure to unusual pressure; and Ability to guide others, requiring frequent decisions affecting co-workers and others who depend on the service or product; works in a somewhat fluid environment with rules and procedures but with many variations from the routine.