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Watershed Modeling Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Line Cook

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site

$18 - $22/hr

Watershed Hospitality has a number of full-service, fast-paced, high-volume restaurants and bars ... Is consistent with service approach and models organization's values Benefits: Fun environments to ...

Watershed Modeling information

See Michigan salary details

$19

$35

$66

How much do watershed modeling jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for watershed modeling in Michigan is $35.16, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $27.26 and $37.93 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 jobs will no longer exist in 2030?

Watershed modeling jobs are unlikely to disappear entirely by 2030, but automation and advances in modeling software may reduce demand for some manual data analysis roles. Professionals in this field will need to adapt by developing skills in GIS, programming, and environmental data management to stay relevant.

What is the highest paying modeling job?

In watershed modeling, senior roles such as lead hydrologist or senior environmental modeler tend to have the highest salaries, often exceeding $100,000 annually. These positions typically require advanced skills in GIS, hydrological software, and relevant certifications, with experience and expertise driving higher compensation.

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 is watershed modelling?

Watershed modeling is a process used by watershed modeling professionals to simulate the movement and distribution of water, pollutants, and sediments within a watershed. It involves using specialized software and data analysis skills to assess water quality, flood risks, and resource management, often supporting environmental planning and policy decisions.

What jobs pay $500,000 a year in the US?

In the field of watershed modeling, senior-level roles such as lead hydrologist or environmental director with extensive experience, advanced degrees, and specialized skills can reach or exceed $500,000 annually, especially in large organizations or consulting firms. High compensation often involves management responsibilities, expertise in modeling tools like HEC-RAS or SWMM, and a strong track record of project success. Such roles are typically found in senior leadership positions or highly specialized consulting roles within environmental and water resource sectors.

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.
What job categories do people searching Watershed Modeling jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Watershed Modeling jobs in Michigan are:
Infographic showing various Watershed Modeling job openings in Michigan as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $73,123 per year, or $35.2 per hour.

$77K - $105K/yr

Full-time

Posted 29 days ago


Job description

Overview

Do you want to build an impactful career to change the world for the better? 

Geosyntec has an exciting opportunity for a Water Resources Engineer in our Ann Arbor, Michigan office. This position is well suited for an engineer with strong hydrology and hydraulics modeling experience, municipal stormwater and sanitary infrastructure design capabilities, and a demonstrated background supporting large-scale sewer, flood protection, and stormwater management programs. The role will support complex projects involving urban stormwater infrastructure design and analysis, sanitary and storm sewer system modeling, flood mitigation planning, sustainable green infrastructure and Low Impact Development (LID) strategies, hydrologic/hydraulic analysis, civil engineering design, watershed and stormwater runoff modeling, NPDES permitting support, and Clean Water Act regulatory support.

Geosyntec is an innovative, international engineering and consulting firm serving private and public-sector clients to address new ventures and complex problems involving our environment, natural resources, and civil infrastructure. Our engineers, scientists, technical and project employees serve our clients from offices across the world. Ranked by ENR as one of the top environmental engineering design firms, Geosyntec is internationally known for its technical leadership, broad experience, and exceptional client service.

We invest in our people.  Each employee is unique, and your career at Geosyntec will be too.  We offer competitive pay and benefits, and well-being programs to support you and your family.

To Learn More Visit: http://www.geosyntec.com/careers/.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities
  • Perform and support detailed hydrologic and hydraulic studies for municipal, watershed, stormwater, sanitary sewer, and flood protection projects.
  • Develop, calibrate, and apply advanced modeling tools such as PCSWMM/EPA SWMM, InfoWorks ICM, HEC-RAS, HEC-HMS, and related platforms to evaluate open channel, closed pipe, dual drainage, sanitary, and stormwater systems.
  • Support planning, analysis, and design for sewer and flood protection master planning, drainage improvement programs, and large-scale capital infrastructure projects.
  • Prepare stormwater management designs, Low Impact Development (LID) strategies, detention/retention analyses, roadway drainage designs, and flood mitigation alternatives.
  • Conduct floodplain analyses, culvert and bridge hydraulic assessments, and scenario modeling to support municipal resilience and flood protection objectives.
  • Perform sanitary sewer inflow and infiltration (I/I) evaluations, system capacity assessments, and infrastructure needs analyses using hydraulic modeling software.
  • Prepare technical memoranda, engineering calculations, design reports, figures, and supporting documentation for internal and external clients.
  • Review functional servicing studies, stormwater technical memoranda, drainage reports, and related municipal infrastructure submittals for regulatory and design compliance.
  • Support field investigations, site visits, data collection, and construction support services, as needed.
  • Coordinate engineering design deliverables with CAD/GIS staff using tools such as AutoCAD, Civil 3D, and ArcGIS.
  • Develop strong collaborative relationships with client representatives, regulatory personnel, and internal Geosyntec colleagues.
  • Coordinate work efforts with multidisciplinary project teams while managing multiple concurrent assignments in a consulting environment.
  • Support lead generation, proposal development, staff development, mentoring, and other contributions consistent with Geosyntec's sell-manage-do business model.
  • Help broaden Geosyntec's technical reputation through conference participation, publications, and professional visibility.
  • Drive personal, company, and rental vehicles to client or company project or office sites, and other business locations, as needed.
Education and Licensure
  • Bachelor's degree in civil engineering, environmental engineering, water resources engineering, or a closely related discipline with emphasis on hydrology, hydraulics, stormwater, or municipal infrastructure. (required)
  • Advanced degree in civil engineering, water resources engineering, environmental engineering, or a related discipline. (preferred)
  • Professional registration (i.e., P.E.) or the ability to obtain within 12 months of employment. (preferred)
Skills, Experience and Qualifications
  • At least 5 years of research or related water resource experience, or equivalent combination of education and experience. (required)
  • Demonstrated experience supporting municipal sewer, stormwater, flood protection, or capital improvement projects. (preferred)
  • Strong working knowledge of hydrology, hydraulics, sewer design, stormwater management, flood analysis, roadway drainage, and Low Impact Development (LID) strategies. (required)
  • Experience with modeling and design software tools such as PCSWMM/EPA SWMM, InfoWorks ICM, HEC-RAS, HEC-HMS, AutoCAD, Civil 3D, and ArcGIS. (preferred)
  • Experience preparing stormwater management calculations, sanitary sewer inflow and infiltration analyses, floodplain models, drainage assessments, and technical reports or memoranda. (preferred)
  • Working knowledge of municipal, state/provincial, and federal regulations applicable to stormwater, drainage, flood protection, environmental assessment, municipal servicing, NPDES permitting, and Clean Water Act compliance. (preferred)
  • Ability to succeed in a fast-paced consulting environment by managing multiple assignments, meeting deadlines, collaborating with multidisciplinary teams, and supporting internal and external clients. (required)
  • Excellent written, verbal, organizational, and interpersonal communication skills. (required)
  • Regular field work and overnight travel may be required. (required)
  • Health & Safety training, medical monitoring, and client-driven drug and background testing may be required.
  • Valid U.S. driver's license and a satisfactory driving record for business travel. (required) 

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Employment Type: FULL_TIME