How much does a Water Resources Engineer make?
Water Resources Engineers play a key role in managing and protecting water resources. They work on projects that involve water supply, flood control, and pollution prevention. Their work is vital for communities and the environment. The average yearly salary for a Water Resources Engineer is $93,385. This salary can vary based on experience and location.
The salary range for Water Resources Engineers can be quite broad. The lowest 10% earn about $39,500 per year. The highest 10% earn over $148,000 annually. Most engineers fall between $69,000 and $118,000 per year. This range shows that there are many opportunities for growth and advancement in this field. Engineers with more experience and specialized skills often earn higher salaries. Location also plays a role, with some areas offering higher pay due to the cost of living and demand for engineers.
What are the highest paying cities for a Water Resources Engineer?

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Houston, TX
Average Salary: $115,261
In Houston, professionals tackle water management challenges in a growing urban area. Companies like Jacobs Engineering and Black & Veatch offer opportunities to work on large-scale water projects.
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Phoenix, AZ
Average Salary: $114,187
Phoenix faces unique water challenges due to its arid climate. Engineers here focus on sustainable water solutions. Firms like AECOM and Arcadis provide roles in innovative water projects.
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South Bend, IN
Average Salary: $109,419
South Bend offers a mix of urban and rural water management tasks. Engineers work on projects for the city and surrounding areas. Companies like TRC Companies and HDR Inc. are active in this field.
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Fresno, CA
Average Salary: $108,955
Fresno's agricultural sector drives the need for efficient water resources management. Engineers here support both urban and rural water needs. Firms like CH2M and AECOM have roles available.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $108,941
San Francisco's tech-savvy environment offers cutting-edge water management solutions. Engineers collaborate with tech firms and city planners. Companies like Tetra Tech and Arcadis are prominent here.
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Sacramento, CA
Average Salary: $106,753
Sacramento, the state capital, provides a hub for water policy and management. Engineers work on statewide projects. Firms like ENVI and AECOM are key players in the region.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $103,357
Los Angeles faces water scarcity and pollution issues. Engineers here develop innovative solutions to manage water resources. Companies like CDM Smith and AECOM offer diverse opportunities.
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Jacksonville, FL
Average Salary: $102,544
Jacksonville's coastal location requires unique water management strategies. Engineers focus on flood control and water quality. Firms like URS Corporation and Arcadis are active in this area.
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Nashville, TN
Average Salary: $101,785
Nashville offers a blend of urban and natural water management challenges. Engineers work on projects for both the city and surrounding areas. Companies like ENVI and AECOM provide roles in this field.
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Milwaukee, WI
Average Salary: $101,732
Milwaukee's industrial background influences its water management needs. Engineers here focus on industrial water use and pollution control. Firms like TRC Companies and AECOM offer opportunities in this region.
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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 exciting opportunities for Water Resources Engineers. They work on projects across the United States, focusing on water management and infrastructure. Locations include major cities like Chicago, Denver, and Minneapolis.
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Farnsworth Group
Average Salary: $113,573
Farnsworth Group provides Water Resources Engineers with diverse projects. They operate in several states, including California, Texas, and Florida. The company focuses on sustainable water solutions and environmental protection.
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French & Parrello
Average Salary: $111,611
French & Parrello is a leading firm for Water Resources Engineers. They work on projects nationwide, with a strong presence in the Northeast and Midwest. They focus on water quality, flood control, and infrastructure development.
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RS&H
Average Salary: $110,902
RS&H offers Water Resources Engineers the chance to work on innovative projects. They operate in multiple states, including New York, California, and Colorado. The company emphasizes sustainable water management and environmental stewardship.
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HNTB Corporation
Average Salary: $110,842
HNTB Corporation provides Water Resources Engineers with a variety of projects. They work across the United States, with a focus on water infrastructure and environmental consulting. Locations include major cities like Los Angeles, New York, and Atlanta.
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Lochmueller Group
Average Salary: $109,228
Lochmueller Group offers Water Resources Engineers opportunities to work on impactful projects. They operate in several states, including Ohio, Michigan, and Pennsylvania. The company focuses on water resource management and environmental solutions.
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Naval Nuclear Laboratory
Average Salary: $107,977
The Naval Nuclear Laboratory provides Water Resources Engineers with unique opportunities. They work on projects related to water management and environmental protection. Locations include Washington state and California.
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DAVRON LLC
Average Salary: $105,429
DAVRON LLC offers Water Resources Engineers the chance to work on diverse projects. They operate in several states, including Texas, Florida, and Arizona. The company focuses on water resource management and environmental consulting.
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CDM Smith
Average Salary: $104,568
CDM Smith provides Water Resources Engineers with a variety of projects. They work across the United States, with a focus on water infrastructure and environmental consulting. Locations include major cities like San Francisco, Boston, and Seattle.
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Civil & Environmental Consultants, Inc.
Average Salary: $99,816
Civil & Environmental Consultants, Inc. offers Water Resources Engineers opportunities to work on impactful projects. They operate in several states, including California, New York, and Illinois. The company focuses on water resource management and environmental solutions.
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 safe and sustainable. Engineers who excel in their roles often find opportunities to earn more. Here are some key factors that can help increase earnings in this field.
First, gaining more experience can lead to higher pay. Engineers who work in the field for several years often become more skilled. They gain valuable knowledge and expertise that employers value. Experienced engineers can take on more complex projects and lead teams. This often results in higher salaries. Second, obtaining advanced degrees or certifications can also boost earnings. A master's degree or a professional certification can make an engineer more competitive. It shows a commitment to the profession and a deeper understanding of complex issues. Third, specializing in a niche area can lead to higher pay. Engineers who focus on areas like water quality, hydrology, or environmental engineering often find more opportunities. They can command higher salaries because of their specialized skills.
Fourth, working in high-demand areas can increase earnings. Some regions face more water challenges and need more engineers. Urban areas or regions with growing populations often offer higher salaries. Fifth, taking on leadership roles can also lead to higher pay. Engineers who become project managers or department heads often earn more. They oversee projects and manage teams, which requires more responsibility and skill. By focusing on these factors, Water Resources Engineers can find ways to increase their earnings.
- Gain more experience
- Obtain advanced degrees or certifications
- Specialize in a niche area
- Work in high-demand areas
- Take on leadership roles



