Water Resource Specialists
Job Zone 4 - Considerable preparation needed
Design or implement programs and strategies related to water resource issues such as supply, quality, and regulatory compliance issues.
Median pay: $167,220/yr (U.S. national, May 2025)
Typical range nationwide (10th–90th percentile). This is a population snapshot, not a personal prediction - actual pay varies by location, employer, and experience.
Job outlook: +3.7% projected growth, 2024–2034 — about as fast as average.
About 8,500 openings per year, on average, over the decade.
Typical entry-level education: Bachelor's degree.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, OEWS and Employment Projections.
• Perform hydrologic, hydraulic, or water quality modeling.
• Analyze storm water systems to identify opportunities for water resource improvements.
• Conduct, or oversee the conduct of, investigations on matters such as water storage, wastewater discharge, pollutants, permits, or other compliance and regulatory issues.
• Develop strategies for watershed operations to meet water supply and conservation goals or to ensure regulatory compliance with clean water laws or regulations.
• Conduct technical studies for water resources on topics such as pollutants and water treatment options.
• Review or evaluate designs for water detention facilities, storm drains, flood control facilities, or other hydraulic structures.
• Present water resource proposals to government, public interest groups, or community groups.
• Develop plans to protect watershed health or rehabilitate watersheds.
What's the median pay for Water Resource Specialists?
The median pay for Water Resource Specialists is $167,220 per year, per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
What's the job outlook for Water Resource Specialists?
Employment for Water Resource Specialists is projected to change +3.7% from 2024 to 2034 - about as fast as average.
What education is typically required for Water Resource Specialists?
Typical entry-level education: Bachelor's degree.
How many job openings are there each year for Water Resource Specialists?
About 8,500 openings per year, on average, over the decade.