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How much does a Water Resources Engineer make?

The average salary for a Water Resources Engineer is $88,734 per year in the US.

A Water Resources Engineer focuses on managing and conserving water. These professionals often work for government agencies, engineering firms, or consulting companies. They design systems to protect and improve water quality and supply. Their work is crucial for communities and the environment.


Looking at the salary data, Water Resources Engineers earn a solid income. The average yearly salary stands at $88,734. Salaries range from $34,000 for entry-level positions to $154,925 for the highest earners. This shows good earning potential as experience grows. Engineers with more experience and specialized skills often earn more. Their work is vital, and so is the reward for their expertise.

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What are the highest paying cities for a Water Resources Engineer?

Water Resources Engineers have many opportunities across the nation, but some cities offer better pay. Washington, DC, stands out with its average salary of $116,257. Job seekers will also find strong salaries in Los Angeles, CA, with $112,031 and in South Bend, IN, with $109,741. These cities provide attractive options for those seeking a lucrative career in water resources engineering.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Water Resources Engineer jobs, highlighting Washington, DC with the highest at $116,257 and Denver, CO with the lowest at $99,350.
  1. Washington, DC
    Average Salary: $116,257
    In Washington, DC, you will tackle water management projects for federal agencies. Companies like AECOM and CH2M offer opportunities. You will help develop policies that impact water supply and quality for the nation's capital.
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  2. Los Angeles, CA
    Average Salary: $112,031
    Los Angeles offers a dynamic environment for engineers focused on sustainable water use. Working with firms like Stantec and AECOM, you will contribute to projects that ensure clean water for millions. You'll be part of innovative solutions for water scarcity.
    Find Water Resources Engineer jobs in Los Angeles, CA


  3. South Bend, IN
    Average Salary: $109,741
    In South Bend, Indiana, you'll focus on local water resource management. Companies such as HDR and Stantec provide opportunities to improve water quality. You'll engage with community projects that ensure safe and clean water for residents.
    Find Water Resources Engineer jobs in South Bend, IN


  4. Sacramento, CA
    Average Salary: $106,264
    Sacramento is a key city for water resource engineers. Working with firms like AECOM and Tetra Tech, you will impact water policies and infrastructure. You'll play a role in ensuring water security for the state's growing population.
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  5. Houston, TX
    Average Salary: $104,291
    Houston offers a bustling environment for water resource professionals. Firms like CH2M and Arcadis provide opportunities to manage flood control and water supply. You'll be at the forefront of tackling water challenges in a fast-growing city.
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  6. Phoenix, AZ
    Average Salary: $103,447
    In Phoenix, you'll work on water conservation and management projects. Companies such as Black & Veatch and AECOM offer roles in developing sustainable water solutions. You'll help address the water needs of one of the nation's fastest-growing cities.
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  7. Richmond, VA
    Average Salary: $101,247
    Richmond provides opportunities to enhance water infrastructure. Working with firms like Stantec and CH2M, you will contribute to projects that improve water quality and supply. You'll work on crucial initiatives for the city's water needs.
    Find Water Resources Engineer jobs in Richmond, VA


  8. Des Moines, IA
    Average Salary: $100,620
    In Des Moines, you'll focus on river and flood management. Companies like HDR and AECOM offer roles in developing water policies. You'll be part of efforts to protect the city from flooding and ensure clean water for residents.
    Find Water Resources Engineer jobs in Des Moines, IA


  9. Jacksonville, FL
    Average Salary: $100,509
    Jacksonville offers diverse opportunities for water resource engineers. Firms such as CH2M and Arcadis provide work in water supply and management. You'll be involved in projects that enhance water quality and sustainability.
    Find Water Resources Engineer jobs in Jacksonville, FL


  10. Denver, CO
    Average Salary: $99,350
    Denver provides a vibrant setting for water resource engineers. Working with companies like AECOM and Tetra Tech, you will manage water supply and quality. You'll contribute to innovative solutions for water challenges in a mountain city.
    Find Water Resources Engineer jobs in Denver, CO

What are the best companies a Water Resources Engineer can work for?

The Foth Companies, TEEMA, and HNTB Corporation offer some of the highest salaries for Water Resources Engineers. These top companies provide competitive pay and valuable opportunities for career growth. Job seekers can find attractive job offers and benefits by exploring positions at these leading firms.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Water Resources Engineer jobs, highlighting The Foth Companies with the highest at $141,818 and Wilson & Company, Inc., Engineers & Architects with the lowest at $91,364.
  1. The Foth Companies
    Average Salary: $141,818
    The Foth Companies offer exciting Water Resources Engineer jobs. They work across the United States, from Minnesota to Texas. This firm focuses on building and maintaining the infrastructure of water systems.


  2. TEEMA
    Average Salary: $122,086
    TEEMA provides Water Resources Engineer jobs with a competitive salary. This firm operates in regions such as Arizona, California, and Florida. They work on improving water quality and managing water resources.


  3. HNTB Corporation
    Average Salary: $113,030
    HNTB Corporation offers Water Resources Engineer jobs with a good salary. They are active in states like Pennsylvania, California, and New York. This firm focuses on providing comprehensive environmental services.


  4. Geosyntec Consultants, Inc.
    Average Salary: $111,624
    Geosyntec Consultants, Inc. provides Water Resources Engineer jobs with an attractive salary. They operate in cities like Chicago, Denver, and Boston. Their work involves environmental consulting and engineering.


  5. HDR
    Average Salary: $98,190
    HDR offers Water Resources Engineer jobs with a reasonable salary. They have offices across the United States, including in Texas and California. They work on sustainable water management solutions.


  6. Barr Engineering
    Average Salary: $95,495
    Barr Engineering provides Water Resources Engineer jobs with a competitive salary. They operate in states such as Colorado and New York. Their focus is on developing innovative water solutions.


  7. Felsburg Holt & Ullevig
    Average Salary: $94,700
    Felsburg Holt & Ullevig offers Water Resources Engineer jobs with a solid salary. They have offices in Minnesota and Wisconsin. They work on water supply and wastewater treatment projects.


  8. Sargent & Lundy
    Average Salary: $93,157
    Sargent & Lundy provides Water Resources Engineer jobs with a good salary. They operate in cities like Chicago and Denver. Their work involves water resource planning and management.


  9. Stantec
    Average Salary: $92,947
    Stantec offers Water Resources Engineer jobs with a competitive salary. They are active in states such as California and Florida. They focus on environmental and water resource engineering.


  10. Wilson & Company, Inc., Engineers & Architects
    Average Salary: $91,364
    Wilson & Company, Inc., Engineers & Architects provides Water Resources Engineer jobs with a reasonable salary. They have offices in Texas and California. Their work includes water resource management and environmental consulting.

How to earn more as a Water Resources Engineer?

Water Resources Engineers can enhance their earning potential by focusing on various factors that boost their professional value. Specialization in specific areas such as hydrogeology or water quality management often attracts higher salaries. Gaining certifications from recognized bodies, such as the Professional Engineers (PE) license, can also significantly increase earning potential. Networking with industry professionals and attending conferences can open up higher-paying job opportunities. Investing in further education, like a master's degree or specialized courses, provides an edge in the competitive job market. Continuous professional development through workshops and online courses keeps skills up-to-date and attractive to employers.

Experience plays a crucial role in earning more as a Water Resources Engineer. Working on a variety of projects, particularly those involving innovative solutions to water management issues, can make a candidate more valuable. Building a strong portfolio that showcases successful projects demonstrates competency and can lead to higher-paying roles. Collaborating with other professionals and contributing to significant research projects can also enhance earning capacity. Effective communication skills, both written and verbal, are essential for negotiating salaries and securing promotions. Pursuing leadership roles within projects or organizations can open avenues to higher compensation packages.

Here are five key factors that can help increase earnings as a Water Resources Engineer:

  1. Specialization in key areas
  2. Certifications and licenses
  3. Professional networking
  4. Further education
  5. Experience and project involvement

Currently 141 Water Resources Engineer job openings, nationwide.

How's the job market for a Water Resources Engineer in the US?

Learn what a Water Resources Engineer does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Water Resources Engineer today.
Position
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Water Resources Engineer
141 Job Openings