What does a Water Resource Engineer do?
Published 3 min read
A water resource engineer is responsible for the development, planning, and management of water resources. They work with government agencies, private companies, and non-profit organizations to ensure the proper utilization of water resources.
Water Resource Engineer job duties include:
- Design and oversee construction of irrigation, drainage, flood control, and water supply systems
- Develop plans to prevent water pollution and to control industrial waste
- Study the effects of proposed construction projects on water resources
- Prepare reports on the findings of their investigations
- Plan and design hydropower plants
- Manage water resources for municipalities, industry, or agriculture
- Investigate complaints of water pollution and take corrective action
- Advise government agencies on policies affecting water resources
- Teach water resource engineering courses at colleges and universities
Water Resource Engineer Job Requirements
Water Resource Engineers typically have a degree in civil engineering, with a focus on water resources. Many Water Resource Engineers are certified through the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE). Water Resource Engineers typically have 5-10 years of experience working with water resources in the public or private sector.
Water Resource Engineer Skills
- Analytical skills
- Problemsolving skills
- Math skills
- Writing skills
- Computer skills
- Organizational skills
- Research skills
- Communication skills
- Critical thinking skills
- Observation skills
- Creativity
Related: Top Water Resource Engineer Skills: Definition and Examples
How to become a Water Resource Engineer
A water resource engineer is a professional who designs and manages water resources projects. They are responsible for the development, operation, and maintenance of water resources systems, including drinking water, irrigation, drainage, and flood control systems.
Water resource engineers must have a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering or a related field. Many water resource engineers also have a master’s degree or PhD in engineering or science. Water resource engineers must be licensed in the state where they practice.
Most water resource engineering jobs are in the public sector, working for local, state, or federal government agencies. Water resource engineers may also work in the private sector for consulting firms or companies that develop and operate water resources projects.
Water resource engineers need to be able to understand and use hydrologic and hydraulic principles. They must be able to use computer modeling software to simulate water resources systems. Water resource engineers must be able to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing. They need to be able to work well in teams and collaborate with other professionals, such as geologists, biologists, and chemists.
Related: Water Resource Engineer Resume Example
Related: Water Resource Engineer Interview Questions (With Example Answers)