How much does a Water Resources Engineer make?
Water Resources Engineers play a key role in managing our water supply. They design systems to provide clean water and manage water resources. The average yearly salary for this job is about $86,500. This is a good income for people who work in this field.
These engineers can earn different amounts depending on their experience and location. Here are some examples:
- The lowest 10% earn about $33,000 a year.
- The highest 10% earn about $144,000 or more.
Most Water Resources Engineers fall somewhere in the middle. They earn between $66,000 and $100,000 per year. This range shows the variety in salaries based on different factors.
What are the highest paying cities for a Water Resources Engineer?

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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $121,560
In Los Angeles, engineering talent is in high demand. Companies like AECOM and Jacobs Engineering are hiring. Working here means you'll tackle important water projects to keep the city supplied.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $114,784
In Washington, DC, you'll find rewarding work with government and private firms. Companies like CH2M and Arcadis are key employers. Your role will focus on water management for the nation's capital.
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South Bend, IN
Average Salary: $109,741
South Bend offers a mix of local government and private sector jobs. Firms like Black & Veatch and Arcadis are looking for new talent. In this city, you'll work on projects that improve water resources for the community.
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Sacramento, CA
Average Salary: $104,334
Sacramento provides many opportunities in water resource engineering. Key employers include AECOM and Stantec. Here, you'll focus on projects that support the city’s water needs.
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Houston, TX
Average Salary: $104,291
Houston is a hub for water engineering, with major employers like Jacobs and AECOM. In this fast-growing city, your work will be crucial in managing water resources for a growing population.
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Richmond, VA
Average Salary: $103,742
Richmond offers a mix of government and private engineering jobs. Companies like Arcadis and AECOM are looking for new engineers. Here, you’ll work on key projects to ensure a reliable water supply.
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Phoenix, AZ
Average Salary: $101,960
Phoenix provides many opportunities in water engineering, with companies like Black & Veatch and Stantec. Working here, you will tackle important projects to manage the city's water resources.
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Denver, CO
Average Salary: $101,402
Denver offers exciting career options in water engineering. Firms like Jacobs and Arcadis are hiring. In this city, you'll work on projects that ensure a sustainable water supply for residents.
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Salt Lake City, UT
Average Salary: $100,839
Salt Lake City offers a mix of challenges and opportunities in water engineering. Companies like AECOM and Black & Veatch are hiring. Your work here will help manage the city’s water resources effectively.
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Des Moines, IA
Average Salary: $100,620
Des Moines is home to many opportunities in water engineering. Key employers include Black & Veatch and CH2M. Here, you’ll work on projects to improve the city's water supply and management.
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What are the best companies a Water Resources Engineer can work for?

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TEEMA
Average Salary: $122,316
TEEMA offers Water Resources Engineer jobs with a focus on environmental consulting. They operate nationwide and specialize in sustainable water management solutions.
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HNTB Corporation
Average Salary: $113,030
HNTB Corporation provides Water Resources Engineer jobs that emphasize infrastructure development. They work in many states across the U.S. and focus on large-scale projects.
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HDR
Average Salary: $108,945
HDR offers diverse Water Resources Engineer positions. They work in urban and rural areas, focusing on environmental and water resource planning.
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Geosyntec Consultants, Inc.
Average Salary: $108,713
Geosyntec Consultants, Inc. provides Water Resources Engineer jobs with a focus on consulting. They operate in major cities across the U.S. and specialize in water quality and resource management.
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Barr Engineering
Average Salary: $96,283
Barr Engineering offers Water Resources Engineer jobs focusing on engineering and consulting services. They operate in various states and work on water infrastructure projects.
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Felsburg Holt & Ullevig
Average Salary: $94,700
Felsburg Holt & Ullevig offers Water Resources Engineer jobs with a focus on civil and environmental engineering. They work in several states, providing solutions for water resource management.
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Wilson & Company, Inc., Engineers & Architects
Average Salary: $93,984
Wilson & Company, Inc., Engineers & Architects offers Water Resources Engineer jobs focusing on sustainable design. They operate in key cities and focus on innovative water solutions.
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Sargent & Lundy
Average Salary: $93,613
Sargent & Lundy offers Water Resources Engineer jobs with a focus on energy and infrastructure. They operate in various states and work on large-scale projects.
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Stantec
Average Salary: $88,522
Stantec offers Water Resources Engineer jobs focusing on environmental consulting and engineering. They operate in multiple states and provide comprehensive water resource solutions.
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Larson Design Group
Average Salary: $88,429
Larson Design Group provides Water Resources Engineer jobs with a focus on landscape architecture and water management. They operate in several states and offer integrated water resource solutions.
How to earn more as a Water Resources Engineer?
A Water Resources Engineer can find many ways to increase their earnings. This professional focuses on managing water resources to meet community needs. To earn more, one should consider several key factors. Each factor provides a path to career growth and higher income.
First, gaining advanced certifications can boost earning potential. Specializing in areas like hydrology or environmental engineering can make a candidate more valuable. Second, expanding experience in different geographical areas can lead to higher-paying opportunities. Employers often look for candidates with diverse experience. Third, developing skills in emerging technologies used in water management can set a professional apart. Fourth, taking on leadership roles, such as project manager or team leader, often results in higher pay. Finally, pursuing a master's degree can open doors to higher-paying jobs and more advanced positions.
Investing in professional development is another key strategy. Attending workshops, conferences, and seminars can keep skills sharp and up-to-date. Building a strong professional network also helps in finding better job opportunities. Networking with peers and attending industry events can lead to discovering high-paying positions.
- Gain advanced certifications.
- Expand experience in different areas.
- Develop skills in emerging technologies.
- Take on leadership roles.
- Pursue a master's degree.



