How much does a Water Resources Engineer make?
Water Resources Engineers play an important role in ensuring our water supply is safe and reliable. This career often attracts those passionate about protecting our environment and improving water systems. According to recent data, the average yearly salary for Water Resources Engineers is about $90,829. This can vary based on experience, location, and specific job duties.
Entry-level Water Resources Engineers, with less than a year of experience, might start with salaries around $34,000. As they gain more experience, the salary can increase. For instance, those with 1 to 4 years of experience can expect to earn between $44,972 and $66,915. Experienced professionals, working in this field for 10 years or more, can see salaries ranging from $110,802 to $154,688.
What are the highest paying cities for a Water Resources Engineer?

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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $116,257
In Washington, DC, working as a Water Resources Engineer means contributing to national water policies. Opportunities often involve collaboration with federal agencies. The pay is competitive, with a focus on sustainable water management.
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Fresno, CA
Average Salary: $114,761
In Fresno, CA, this role focuses on water supply and flood control. Engineers here often work for local government or major agricultural firms. The area benefits from consistent job growth in water management.
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South Bend, IN
Average Salary: $109,741
In South Bend, IN, Water Resources Engineers play a key role in regional water treatment projects. The city values environmental sustainability, providing a supportive environment for innovative solutions. Local universities also offer collaborative opportunities.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $107,879
Los Angeles, CA offers diverse opportunities in water resources engineering, particularly in urban water management and recycling. Engineers often work with both private companies and public sectors to enhance water efficiency in a large, diverse market.
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Sacramento, CA
Average Salary: $106,695
In Sacramento, CA, this profession involves significant work in water policy and infrastructure. The state capital provides a unique setting for engineers to influence statewide water strategies. Employers include state agencies and environmental consulting firms.
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Phoenix, AZ
Average Salary: $104,190
Phoenix, AZ, faces unique water challenges, making the work of Water Resources Engineers crucial for sustainable water use. The city's dry climate drives innovation in water conservation and efficiency. Many projects are with large municipal water utilities.
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Houston, TX
Average Salary: $103,820
In Houston, TX, engineers focus on managing water resources in a fast-growing urban area. Opportunities exist with both government agencies and private sectors, addressing issues like flooding and water supply management for a large population.
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Columbus, OH
Average Salary: $101,977
Columbus, OH offers diverse opportunities in water resources engineering, focusing on urban water supply and flood management. Engineers work with municipal departments and environmental firms to address water challenges in a mid-sized city setting.
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Des Moines, IA
Average Salary: $100,620
In Des Moines, IA, Water Resources Engineers work on agricultural water management and flood prevention. The city's central location in the Midwest offers unique challenges and opportunities for sustainable water practices in an agriculturally rich region.
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Tampa, FL
Average Salary: $100,598
In Tampa, FL, this profession involves managing water resources in a coastal city, with a focus on water quality and coastal protection. The city’s growing population increases the demand for innovative water solutions, offering a dynamic environment for engineering professionals.
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What are the best companies a Water Resources Engineer can work for?

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The Foth Companies
Average Salary: $133,333
The Foth Companies offers Water Resources Engineer positions with a focus on sustainability and innovation. They work on projects across the U.S., with major operations in Minneapolis and Denver.
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TEEMA
Average Salary: $121,852
TEEMA provides exciting opportunities for Water Resources Engineers. They design solutions for water and environmental challenges, primarily in Florida and the Carolinas.
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HNTB Corporation
Average Salary: $114,016
HNTB Corporation offers a variety of Water Resources Engineer jobs nationwide. Their projects focus on infrastructure and environmental design, with key locations in California, Texas, and the Northeast.
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CDM Smith
Average Salary: $107,463
CDM Smith is known for its Water Resources Engineer roles. They work on projects that improve water quality and sustainability, with offices across the U.S. and internationally.
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Geosyntec Consultants, Inc.
Average Salary: $102,917
Geosyntec Consultants, Inc. offers diverse Water Resources Engineer jobs. They focus on environmental consulting and have offices in major U.S. cities, including Washington, D.C., and Chicago.
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Barr Engineering
Average Salary: $99,607
Barr Engineering provides opportunities for Water Resources Engineers with a focus on infrastructure. They work on projects across the U.S., with major offices in New York and California.
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HDR
Average Salary: $97,516
HDR offers Water Resources Engineer positions with a focus on sustainable design. They work on projects nationwide, with key locations in the Midwest and West Coast.
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Stantec
Average Salary: $97,291
Stantec provides opportunities for Water Resources Engineers, focusing on infrastructure projects. They have offices across the U.S. and internationally, with major locations in Toronto and Denver.
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Arcadis
Average Salary: $95,673
Arcadis offers Water Resources Engineer jobs with a focus on environmental sustainability. They work on projects across the globe, with key offices in Europe and the U.S., including Boston and San Francisco.
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Felsburg Holt & Ullevig
Average Salary: $93,750
Felsburg Holt & Ullevig provides Water Resources Engineer roles, focusing on environmental consulting. They have offices in California and Oregon, with projects across the West Coast.
How to earn more as a Water Resources Engineer?
A Water Resources Engineer can increase their earnings by gaining specific skills and experiences. This career offers many opportunities for growth and higher pay. By focusing on the right areas, an engineer can boost their income.
Here are some key factors that can help increase earnings:
- Get advanced degrees or certifications.
- Gain experience in specialized areas.
- Learn new technologies and software.
- Work on large and high-profile projects.
- Stay updated with the latest industry trends.



