How much does a Water Resources Engineer make?
Water Resources Engineers play a key role in managing and protecting our water supply. They design systems to collect, store, and distribute water. They also work to prevent pollution and manage water resources sustainably. The average yearly salary for a Water Resources Engineer is $94,647. This means they earn a good living for their important work.
The salary for Water Resources Engineers can vary based on experience and location. Entry-level engineers might start around $40,000 per year. With more experience, salaries can rise significantly. Engineers with over 10 years in the field can earn over $128,000 annually. Some top earners can make even more. This range shows that there are good opportunities for growth in this career.
What are the highest paying cities for a Water Resources Engineer?

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Houston, TX
Average Salary: $118,087
Houston offers a dynamic environment for water resource professionals. The city is home to major firms like Jacobs, where engineers work on large-scale projects. Opportunities abound in water management and infrastructure.
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Phoenix, AZ
Average Salary: $112,363
Phoenix, known for its arid climate, relies heavily on water resource engineers. Companies like AECOM provide roles in water conservation and sustainability. Engineers here play a crucial role in managing limited resources.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $106,633
In San Francisco, water resource engineers contribute to innovative projects. Firms like Tetra Tech focus on water quality and supply. The city's tech-savvy environment offers unique challenges and opportunities.
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South Bend, IN
Average Salary: $106,604
South Bend provides a community-focused setting for water resource engineers. Local firms like HNTB work on regional water projects. Engineers here enjoy a balance of professional growth and community engagement.
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Fresno, CA
Average Salary: $106,406
Fresno, in the heart of California's agricultural region, needs skilled water resource engineers. Companies like CH2M offer roles in irrigation and water management. Engineers in Fresno impact both urban and rural water systems.
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Sacramento, CA
Average Salary: $105,000
Sacramento, the state capital, offers a variety of projects for water resource engineers. Firms like Arcadis work on statewide water initiatives. Engineers here play a key role in policy and infrastructure development.
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Baton Rouge, LA
Average Salary: $102,879
Baton Rouge provides a mix of urban and rural challenges for water resource engineers. Companies like Black & Veatch focus on flood control and water supply. Engineers here work on critical infrastructure projects.
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Jacksonville, FL
Average Salary: $101,972
Jacksonville offers diverse opportunities for water resource engineers. Firms like Stantec work on coastal and riverine projects. Engineers here manage water resources in a growing urban area.
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Indianapolis, IN
Average Salary: $101,881
Indianapolis provides a balanced environment for water resource engineers. Local firms like W.S. Badger offer roles in urban water management. Engineers here work on both infrastructure and environmental projects.
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Nashville, TN
Average Salary: $101,785
Nashville offers a mix of urban and natural settings for water resource engineers. Companies like HDR work on water quality and supply projects. Engineers here enjoy a vibrant city life with professional growth opportunities.
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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: $128,292
The Foth Companies offers Water Resources Engineer jobs with a focus on sustainable water management. They work on projects across the United States, including in California, Texas, and Florida.
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French & Parrello
Average Salary: $111,747
French & Parrello provides Water Resources Engineer positions with a strong emphasis on environmental consulting. They operate in several states, including New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania.
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Farnsworth Group
Average Salary: $110,717
The Farnsworth Group offers Water Resources Engineer jobs with a focus on water supply and wastewater treatment. They work in various locations, including Ohio, Michigan, and Illinois.
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STATE WATER RESOURCES CONTROL BOARD
Average Salary: $110,663
The STATE WATER RESOURCES CONTROL BOARD provides Water Resources Engineer jobs with a focus on regulatory and policy work. They operate in California.
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HNTB Corporation
Average Salary: $110,141
HNTB Corporation offers Water Resources Engineer jobs with a focus on infrastructure and environmental projects. They work across the United States, including in Texas, California, and New York.
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Lochmueller Group
Average Salary: $109,393
The Lochmueller Group provides Water Resources Engineer positions with a focus on water resource management and consulting. They operate in several states, including Wisconsin, Minnesota, and Michigan.
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Naval Nuclear Laboratory
Average Salary: $107,977
The Naval Nuclear Laboratory offers Water Resources Engineer jobs with a focus on nuclear power plant operations. They operate in Washington state.
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RS&H
Average Salary: $105,060
RS&H provides Water Resources Engineer positions with a focus on environmental consulting and engineering. They work in various locations, including California, Florida, and New York.
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Civil & Environmental Consultants, Inc.
Average Salary: $104,048
Civil & Environmental Consultants, Inc. offers Water Resources Engineer jobs with a focus on water resource management and environmental consulting. They operate in several states, including California, Texas, and Florida.
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DAVRON LLC
Average Salary: $103,500
DAVRON LLC provides Water Resources Engineer positions with a focus on water resource management and environmental consulting. They work in various locations, including California, Texas, and Florida.
How to earn more as a Water Resources Engineer?
A Water Resources Engineer can find several ways to increase their earnings. This profession involves managing water resources, ensuring they are available and safe for use. Engineers can boost their income by gaining more experience, specializing in a niche area, and obtaining advanced certifications. These steps enhance their skills and value in the job market.
Here are some factors that can help a Water Resources Engineer earn more:
- Advanced Degrees: Earning a master's or Ph.D. can lead to higher-paying positions.
- Professional Certifications: Certifications like the Professional Engineer (PE) license can increase earning potential.
- Specialization: Focusing on areas like hydrology, water quality, or environmental engineering can open up higher-paying roles.
- Experience: Gaining more years of experience can lead to promotions and higher salaries.
- Networking: Building a strong professional network can help find better job opportunities and salary increases.