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Watershed Management Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Water Resources Deputy Director

Lakeport, CA · On-site

$103K - $125K/yr

Job Details Under general direction, plans, directs, coordinates, and manages Watershed Protection District programs as defined in the Lake County Flood Control and Watershed Protection District Act ...

Provide technical input for watershed management and restoration strategies * Participate in interdisciplinary teams supporting natural resource management * This is not designed to cover or contain ...

Senior Drainage Engineer

Austin, TX · On-site

$103K - $142K/yr

Municipal Stormwater, Watershed Management, Stream Restoration, and Roadway Drainage Work Setting: Hybrid / Flexible (Private HQ with Gym & Full-Sized Offices) Salary: $135,000 - $175,000 ...

Watershed Engineer

Jackson, MS · On-site

$68K - $94K/yr

Watershed Engineer Department: Water/Wastewater Employment Type: Full Time Location: Jackson, MS ... Coordinate with project managers, engineers, planners, and clients to develop practical and ...

Senior Drainage Engineer

Austin, TX · On-site

$135K - $175K/yr

Municipal Stormwater, Watershed Management, Stream Restoration, and Roadway Drainage Work Setting: Hybrid / Flexible (Private HQ with Gym & Full-Sized Offices) Salary: $135,000 - $175,000 ...

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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 14, 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:
Project Manager 3 - Watershed Planning

Project Manager 3 - Watershed Planning

Clean Water Services

Hillsboro, OR

Other

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

The Position The Natural Systems Enhancement and Stewardship department is seeking a Project Manager 3 - Watershed Planning. This position manages planning projects from initiation through completion, applying appropriate levels of oversight based on project scope, complexity, and organizational needs. Supports the planning, development, and implementation of strategies at the watershed and sub-basin scale to advance stormwater management, ecological enhancement, and environmental stewardship.

Applies technical expertise in surface water and stormwater systems, watershed management, ecological processes, restoration planning, and environmental and land-use regulations to create prioritization frameworks to guide project development and ensure regulatory compliance. Leads and coordinates internal and external teams to achieve defined project outcomes. Additional Information: The location for this position will change to CWS Central, 15195 NW Greenbrier Pkwy., Beaverton, OR 97006, in 2027

Candidates who are selected to move forward in the recruitment process will be invited to self-schedule their interview. Please be sure to check your email for status updates. Essential Functions (This section outlines the essential functions assigned to the position.

The essential functions listed below are not intended to include all duties that may be assigned to this classification. CWS may modify, add, or remove duties or functions at its discretion.) Produces integrated planning deliverables, including subbasin strategies, stormwater master plans, priority assessments, and alternative analyses. Guides the development and implementation planning of resilient stream corridor approaches, stormwater management, stream enhancement, and riparian plantings projects to meet regulatory requirements and advance watershed health goals

Manages assigned projects to align with program and departmental roadmaps and CWS key outcomes by defining scope, developing requests for proposals, overseeing contracts and consultants, maintaining schedules, budgets, and risk mitigation strategies, and coordinating with Procurement on the consultant selection process and approvals. Monitors and documents project progress, risks, and changes, providing timely updates and coordinating project elements with internal teams, external partners, and stakeholders. Tracks, analyzes, and reports on project activities, trends, and effectiveness to ensure alignment with ecological goals and organizational objectives.

Leads collaborative development of project concepts, evaluating alternatives and identifying cost-effective, innovative methods, tools, and practices for implementation. Coordinates with stakeholders, including agencies, jurisdictions, community groups, contractors, and consultants to support project development and implementation. Supports public involvement activities in partnership with Communications and Community Engagement, represents CWS in meetings with advisory committees, partner agencies, and community groups.

Resolves complaints and addresses public concerns related to projects. Serves as a technical resource providing guidance in the development and implementation of department activities and projects. Trains, mentors, and coordinates the work of interns.

May supervise the work of technical, professional, and/or supervisory staff. Oversees employee development and performance including selection and training; preparation of performance appraisals, and development or improvement plans; resolves complaints and grievances; implements disciplinary actions. Assists in creating a positive and supportive work environment; enforces a safe workplace; establishes a culture of teamwork and communication; creates a workplace that promotes the organizational values of workplace diversity, equity and inclusion and actively promotes an environment respectful of living and working in a multicultural society.

Drives a CWS or personal vehicle for work-related purposes. Qualifications KNOWLEDGE OF: Principles and practices of project management Principles and practices of stormwater management, ecological enhancement, and environmental stewardship Methods of stakeholder engagement Principles and methods to identify, analyze, specify, design, schedule and manage functional requirements Principles and practices of budget preparation and control Pertinent federal, state, and local laws, codes, and regulations, including the Federal Clean Water Act requirements and state water quality requirements SKILL IN: Prioritizing multiple projects and managing competing deadlines Analyzing information, identifying issues, and developing solutions Building and sustaining internal and external partnerships Projecting consequences of proposed actions and implementing recommendations in support of goals Facilitating meetings, discussions, or collaborative work sessions Use of computers and computer software, including word processing, spreadsheets, and project scheduling and tracking applications ABILITY TO: Coordinate and manage multiple projects to completion within scheduled deadlines and allocated budgets Prepare and present clear and concise reports, verify trends, and submit proposals for change Understand and interpret pertinent policies, procedures, laws, and regulations Facilitate discussions with public observation and involvement Establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work including a variety of CWS staff and other government officials, contractors, vendors, community groups, and the general public Operate effectively in a team environment Communicate effectively, both orally and in writing EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE, CERTIFICATIONS, AND/OR LICENSES: The following are the minimum qualifications for this position. 3 years of supervisory, managerial, project, or team lead experience; 5 years planning, managing, and implementing projects in one or more of the following areas: Surface water, stormwater, or watershed restoration Engineering Conservation or ecological restoration Environmental or land use planning and development College-level coursework in environmental science, engineering, ecology, planning, geography, hydrology, water resources policy and management, or a related field.

Candidates must possess and maintain a valid state-issued driver's license. Additional Information Reasonable Accommodation: Applicants who require reasonable accommodation in order to participate in any phase of the application process should contact Human Resources at 503.681.3600 or TDD 503.681.3601. Equal Employment Opportunity: Clean Water Services is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, gender, national origin, marital status, age, uniformed service, sexual orientation or disability in the admission or access to the recruitment process or any aspect of employment

Application Review and Certification Statement: Applicants will be reviewed and evaluated based on qualifications including relevant skills, education, training, and work history. Supplemental materials including resumes, cover letters, and other attachments will not be considered unless specifically requested as part of the application process. Applicants are responsible for ensuring that their application materials are detailed, accurate, clearly demonstrate how they meet the minimum and, if applicable, special qualifications for the position, and are complete at the time the application is submitted.

Incomplete or inaccurate applications may be removed from further consideration or may result in disqualification from the application or selection process, rescinding an offer of employment, or termination of employment if discovered after hire. Application materials will be used to determine salary placement in accordance with applicable state and federal law, CWS Human Resources policies and guidelines, and collective bargaining agreements, upon extension of a job offer. Unless requested as part of the application process, supplemental materials provided will not be considered.

By submitting your application, and any supplemental materials specifically requested by CWS as part of the application process, you are certifying the information you have provided is true, accurate and complete and have read and understand the above statement.