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Watershed Modeling Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Trilon

Watershed Engineer

Jackson, MS · Hybrid

Perform hydrologic and hydraulic modeling for watershed studies, drainage systems, stormwater infrastructure, floodplain analysis, and resiliency projects * Prepare technical reports, drainage ...

Trilon Group

Watershed Engineer

Jackson, MS · On-site

$68K - $94K/yr

Perform hydrologic and hydraulic modeling for watershed studies, drainage systems, stormwater infrastructure, floodplain analysis, and resiliency projects * Prepare technical reports, drainage ...

Waggoner

Watershed Engineer

Jackson, MS · Hybrid

$70K - $90K/yr

Perform hydrologic and hydraulic modeling for watershed studies, drainage systems, stormwater infrastructure, floodplain analysis, and resiliency projects * Prepare technical reports, drainage ...

Dudek

Watershed Planner III

Oakland, CA · On-site

$85K - $105K/yr

Watershed Sciences Work Environment: HybridCompensation: $85,000-$105,000 Dudek's journey began in ... Familiarity with hydrological modeling, stormwater management, or floodplain analysis is beneficial.

Dudek

Watershed Planner III

Santa Cruz, CA · On-site

$85K - $105K/yr

Watershed Sciences Work Environment: HybridCompensation: $85,000-$105,000 Dudek's journey began in ... Familiarity with hydrological modeling, stormwater management, or floodplain analysis is beneficial.

Dudek

Watershed Planner III

Fresno, CA · On-site

$85K - $105K/yr

Watershed Sciences Work Environment: HybridCompensation: $85,000-$105,000 Dudek's journey began in ... Familiarity with hydrological modeling, stormwater management, or floodplain analysis is beneficial.

Chloeta

Hydrologist

Tucson, AZ · On-site +1

Perform watershed modeling and stormwater runoff analysis for roadway improvement projects * Perform hydraulic modeling of culverts, bridges, storm drains, ditches, and roadside channels * Support ...

Dudek

Watershed Planner III

Auburn, CA · On-site

$85K - $105K/yr

Watershed Sciences Work Environment: HybridCompensation: $85,000-$105,000 Dudek's journey began in ... Familiarity with hydrological modeling, stormwater management, or floodplain analysis is beneficial.

Dudek

Watershed Planner III

Bakersfield, CA · On-site

$85K - $105K/yr

Watershed Sciences Work Environment: HybridCompensation: $85,000-$105,000 Dudek's journey began in ... Familiarity with hydrological modeling, stormwater management, or floodplain analysis is beneficial.

Dudek

Watershed Planner III

Santa Barbara, CA · On-site

$85K - $105K/yr

Watershed Sciences Work Environment: HybridCompensation: $85,000-$105,000 Dudek's journey began in ... Familiarity with hydrological modeling, stormwater management, or floodplain analysis is beneficial.

Dudek

Watershed Planner III

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$85K - $105K/yr

Watershed Sciences Work Environment: HybridCompensation: $85,000-$105,000 Dudek's journey began in ... Familiarity with hydrological modeling, stormwater management, or floodplain analysis is beneficial.

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How much do watershed modeling jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for watershed modeling in the United States is $40.33, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $31.25 and $43.51 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To excel as a Watershed Modeler, you need a solid background in hydrology, environmental science, and data analysis, typically supported by a relevant degree such as environmental engineering or geology. Familiarity with modeling software like SWAT, HEC-HMS, GIS applications, and statistical analysis tools is essential, and certifications in GIS or water resources management are beneficial. Strong problem-solving, communication, and project management skills help in translating complex data into actionable insights and collaborating with stakeholders. These capabilities are crucial for developing accurate watershed models that inform sustainable water resource management and policy decisions.

What is watershed modeling?

Watershed modeling is the process of using mathematical models and computer simulations to analyze and predict how water moves and is distributed within a watershed area. These models help scientists and engineers understand the flow of surface water, the impact of land use changes, pollution transport, and water quality. Watershed modeling is essential for effective water resource management, flood prediction, and environmental protection. The results are often used by government agencies, researchers, and planners to make informed decisions about land development and conservation efforts.

What are some common challenges faced by watershed modeling professionals when working with real-world data?

Watershed modeling professionals often encounter challenges related to data quality and availability, such as incomplete hydrological records or inconsistent land use data. Addressing these issues requires creative problem-solving, including the use of data interpolation, calibration techniques, and leveraging multiple data sources. Collaborating closely with field technicians, GIS analysts, and local stakeholders is crucial to fill data gaps and ensure models accurately reflect real-world conditions. Additionally, modelers must stay up to date with evolving software tools and regulatory requirements.
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What states have the most Watershed Modeling jobs? States with the most job openings for Watershed Modeling jobs include:
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Watershed Modeling jobs near you
Infographic showing various Watershed Modeling job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $83,896 per year, or $40.3 per hour.

Postdoctoral Researcher, Ecosystem Ecology and Watershed Modeling

Murray State University

Murray, KY • On-site

$46K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago

Murray State University rating

5.5

Company rating: 5.5 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

587th of 615 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Job Details
Position Information
Posting Number
20270003EX
Job Title
Postdoctoral Researcher, Ecosystem Ecology and Watershed Modeling
Number of Vacancies
1
About Murray State
Located in the West Kentucky region, Murray State University is a public, comprehensive University which offers a low cost of living, low property taxes, and a four-season climate. Murray has a friendly, small-town atmosphere with locally-owned specialty shops and restaurants, an acclaimed community theater, art guild and award-winning public schools. The area is home to Kentucky Lake and Land Between the Lakes, a 170,000-acre National Recreation Area, which offers a wide-range of activities and amenities for residents and visitors alike. Located in close proximity to major cities and nearby access to Interstate 24, Murray is just a few hours from Nashville, St. Louis, Louisville and Memphis. Learn more about Careers at Murray State University.
About Murray State Benefits
Faculty and staff of Murray State University have access to a comprehensive benefits package including health insurance, retirement, tuition waivers, generous paid holidays, vacation, sick, and paid parental leave, as well as many other benefit offerings. Please refer to the Murray State Benefits page for more information.
Equal Opportunity Employment
Equal Opportunity Employer/AA. Murray State University does not discriminate based on race, color, national origin, sex, gender, identity, sexual orientation, religion, age, veteran status, disability or political or social viewpoint. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply.
Type of Employment
Regular Full-Time
If Part Time, Enter Hours Per Week
Work Location
Murray, KY
Employment Term
12 Months
Position Type
Staff - Exempt (Monthly)
Department
Watershed Studies Institute
Summary of Job Duties and Responsibilities
Full-time, two-year position beginning January 2027. A renewal for a third year is possible.
A Postdoctoral Researcher position is available in the Watershed Studies Institute (WSI) and the Department of Biological Sciences at Murray State University. The Moon Lab seeks a highly motivated researcher to integrate empirical greenhouse gas flux measurements with watershed modeling to quantify coupled carbon and nitrogen dynamics. Modeling efforts will initially focus on bottomland hardwood forests but may extend to other systems. The postdoctoral researcher will lead the development of modeling protocols for student researchers, develop a methane sub-model, and mentor undergraduate and master's-level graduate students in modeling and ecosystem lab and field studies. The postdoctoral researcher will also teach one course per semester in biology.
Murray, Kentucky, is uniquely situated near numerous natural areas, including the Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area, Kentucky Lake Reservoir, Clarks River National Wildlife Refuge, Reelfoot National Wildlife Refuge, and multiple Wildlife Management Areas and state nature preserves. Murray State University also maintains substantial research infrastructure through WSI, including the Hancock Biological Station, the Mapping Applications Resource Center, and the Chemical Services Laboratory.
Minimum Education Requirements
Ph.D. in ecology, biogeochemistry, environmental science, or a closely related field. ABDs with a documented plan of completion by appointment date will be considered.
Minimum Experience and Skill Requirements
Excellent written and oral communication skills, with the expectation of publishing peer-reviewed research, contributing to grant development, and engaging with regional stakeholders is required.
Preferred Education and/or Experience Qualifications
Previous modeling experience is preferred. Candidates with strong quantitative skills interested in ecological modeling are encouraged to apply. Experience with microbial ecology in biogeochemical applications, is also considered a plus.
Physical Demands
Work Hours
Hourly Rate/Annual Salary
$46,148 (Additional pay dependent upon qualifications)
Staff Grade
112
Posting Details
Posting Date
07/21/2026
Closing Date
08/21/2026
Open Until Filled
No
Special Instructions to Applicants
Along with the application, the following items must be included:
  • Letter of application detailing career goals and research experience
  • Curriculum Vitae

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