How much does a Water Resources Engineer make?
A Water Resources Engineer works with water systems and resources. They design solutions for managing water. They might work on projects for cities, government agencies, or private companies. This job can offer a rewarding career and a good salary. The average yearly salary for a Water Resources Engineer is around $91,568. This means most engineers earn between this amount and a bit more.
Salaries for Water Resources Engineers can vary based on many things. These include experience, location, and the type of employer. Entry-level engineers may earn less. As they gain more experience, their pay often goes up. Some earn more if they work in big cities or with top companies. Here is a closer look at the pay range:
- 10% earn less than $35,350
- 25% earn less than $57,048
- 50% earn less than $89,595
- 75% earn less than $122,142
- 90% earn less than $132,991
- 100% earn less than $154,688
What are the highest paying cities for a Water Resources Engineer?

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Fresno, CA
Average Salary: $114,761
In Fresno, professionals develop water conservation plans and manage water supply projects. Key employers include local government agencies and irrigation companies.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $113,244
In Washington, DC, engineers work on national water policy and manage federal water projects. Prominent employers include the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the Environmental Protection Agency.
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South Bend, IN
Average Salary: $109,741
In South Bend, engineers focus on local water quality and storm water management. Companies like the City of South Bend and regional environmental firms offer career opportunities.
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Sacramento, CA
Average Salary: $108,338
In Sacramento, experts contribute to statewide water policy and infrastructure projects. State agencies and private consulting firms provide job opportunities.
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Houston, TX
Average Salary: $106,598
In Houston, engineers work on flood control and water supply projects. Major employers include local government and large engineering firms.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $106,383
In Los Angeles, professionals manage water resources to meet the needs of a large urban population. Employers include municipal water departments and environmental consulting firms.
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Phoenix, AZ
Average Salary: $103,303
In Phoenix, engineers tackle water scarcity and manage water resources effectively. Key employers are water management agencies and engineering firms.
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Nashville, TN
Average Salary: $103,041
In Nashville, experts focus on sustainable water practices and water conservation. Employers include local government and environmental organizations.
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Columbus, OH
Average Salary: $99,675
In Columbus, professionals work on water quality and infrastructure projects. Job opportunities exist with municipal water departments and private engineering firms.
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Des Moines, IA
Average Salary: $98,751
In Des Moines, engineers manage river systems and flood control measures. Local government agencies and consulting firms are major employers.
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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: $133,861
The Foth Companies offers exciting opportunities for Water Resources Engineers across the United States. They focus on sustainable water solutions. Locations include Chicago, Phoenix, San Francisco, and New York City. Their projects often involve advanced water management systems and environmental planning.
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TEEMA
Average Salary: $121,600
TEEMA provides opportunities for Water Resources Engineers in several locations, including Tampa and Orlando. They specialize in water infrastructure and environmental consulting. They work on diverse projects like water supply systems and flood protection.
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Farnsworth Group
Average Salary: $115,625
Farnsworth Group offers rewarding roles for Water Resources Engineers, with offices in Atlanta and Charlotte. This firm works on water resource projects, including water supply and wastewater treatment. They focus on innovative and sustainable solutions.
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HNTB Corporation
Average Salary: $113,326
HNTB Corporation has openings for Water Resources Engineers in major cities like Los Angeles and Washington, D.C. They work on large-scale infrastructure projects, focusing on water and environmental issues. Their work often involves water management and flood control.
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CDM Smith
Average Salary: $108,773
CDM Smith offers positions for Water Resources Engineers in Boston and San Francisco. They focus on water resource management and environmental consulting. Their projects range from water supply systems to stormwater management and ecological restoration.
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HDR
Average Salary: $100,583
HDR provides Water Resources Engineer opportunities in cities like Denver and Minneapolis. They work on sustainable water projects, including flood management and water conservation. Their projects often focus on community-wide water solutions.
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Barr Engineering
Average Salary: $98,549
Barr Engineering has openings for Water Resources Engineers in Houston and Miami. They specialize in water resources and environmental consulting. Their projects include water supply, wastewater treatment, and flood risk management.
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Geosyntec Consultants, Inc.
Average Salary: $97,883
Geosyntec Consultants, Inc. offers roles in Atlanta and San Francisco. They focus on water resource engineering and environmental consulting. Their projects cover water management, flood control, and environmental assessment.
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Stantec
Average Salary: $97,717
Stantec provides opportunities for Water Resources Engineers in Los Angeles and San Diego. They work on water supply and wastewater projects. Their work includes designing systems for water treatment and distribution.
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Arcadis
Average Salary: $95,002
Arcadis offers positions for Water Resources Engineers in Philadelphia and Detroit. They focus on water resource management and environmental services. Their projects include stormwater management and water infrastructure development.
How to earn more as a Water Resources Engineer?
To earn more as a Water Resources Engineer, gaining specialized skills and certifications can significantly boost income. Engineers with expertise in areas such as hydrological modeling, environmental impact assessments, and water quality management often find themselves in higher demand. Advanced degrees, such as a master’s or doctorate, can also lead to higher-paying positions. Engaging in continuous learning and staying updated with the latest technologies and methodologies will help increase earning potential.
Experience plays a critical role in salary increases. Engineers with several years of field experience tend to earn more than those who are just starting. Taking on leadership roles, managing projects, and demonstrating a strong track record of successful water resource projects can open up opportunities for higher compensation. Networking with industry professionals and attending relevant conferences can also lead to job opportunities that offer better pay. Building a strong professional portfolio showcasing past projects and achievements will make an individual more attractive to potential employers.
Consider the following factors to earn more as a Water Resources Engineer:
- Specialized Skills: Gaining expertise in areas like hydrological modeling and water quality management.
- Advanced Degrees: Earning a master’s or doctorate can lead to higher-paying roles.
- Field Experience: More years of experience can significantly increase earning potential.
- Leadership Roles: Managing projects and demonstrating successful outcomes can lead to higher pay.
- Continuous Learning: Staying updated with the latest technologies and methodologies.



