Water Resources Project Manager - Hydrology/Hydraulics
About the role
VHB’s Water Resources group is rapidly expanding across New England, and we’re seeking a senior-level Water Resources Engineer with deep hydraulics and hydrology expertise to help lead our high-performing team. As climate change drives more frequent and intense weather and storm events, our clients turn to VHB to deliver technically rigorous, resilient, and future-ready water resources solutions—and you can be at the center of that work. Ideally based in the Greater Boston area, we would consider candidates in any of our New England offices.
In this highly visible role, you’ll be a trusted technical leader and strategic advisor to public and private clients, developing innovative and cost-effective solutions to complex riverine and coastal flooding, ecological restoration, and water resources challenges. You’ll apply advanced hydrologic and hydraulic (H&H) analysis and modeling on projects that span site to watershed scale, working alongside an integrated network of experienced water resources professionals across the region.
Responsibilities
- Lead multi-disciplinary projects with a hydrologic, hydraulic, and resiliency focus, including interaction with staff and clients.
- Conduct hydrologic, hydraulic, and scour studies for riverine and coastal environments using current modeling software including HEC-HMS, HEC-RAS, HydroCAD, HY-8, EPA SWMM, SRH-2D/SMS, CHAMP, and others.
- Use analysis to identify and design flood, scour, and resiliency improvements, including both hardened features and nature-based solutions and living shorelines.
- Perform FEMA “no-rise” analyses and assist clients with FEMA map revisions.
- Develop technical reports, design plans, construction documents, and specifications for water resources-related projects.
- Lead construction administration for water resource projects.
- Work with VHB’s integrated team to evaluate permit requirements and support the development of permit applications.
- Attend and present at meetings with clients, regulatory agencies, and stakeholders.
- Lead the development of project proposals, scopes of work, and fee estimates.
- Mentor and expand the technical resources of our staff.
Requirements
- A minimum of 11-15 years of experience in related water resource engineering and analysis.
- BS in Civil/Environmental Engineering (a master’s degree may be substituted for 2 years of experience).
- PE license.
Skills
- Excellent verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills.
- Team-oriented with a strong ability to motivate others.
- Superior collaborative problem-solving with stakeholders, clients, and teammates.
- Advanced understanding of hydrologic and hydraulic modeling programs, and the ability to select and apply the appropriate approach to solve client problems.
- Experience and interest in staff development.
- Understanding of local, state, and federal permitting.
Benefits
This high-priority role offers an exclusive sign-on bonus. VHB fosters a technology-empowered, people-driven, future-ready culture with agility, innovation, and collaboration shaping how we work. Benefits include:
- Meaningful work on complex projects with real community impact.
- A collaborative, inclusive culture that values curiosity and shared success.
- Support to grow your skills and lead through change.
- Learning and development supported by evolving tools and technologies, including AI.
- Best-in-class benefits and a flexible, hybrid work environment.
Pay
Our best estimate of the salary range for this position located in Boston/Watertown, MA is $145,000-$200,000. The final compensation will be based on individual qualifications, education, and experience.