Project Engineer Jobs in California

Description

Are you seeking a career where you can foster a positive working environment and enhance employee relations? Do you possess flexibility, proactivity, approachability, a knack for problem-solving, and a good sense of humor? If so, you’ve found the right place!

Wood Rodgers is seeking a motivated Project Engineer to join our Flood & Drainage team. This position is ideal for an engineer with 5 to 8 years of water resources experience who is passionate about hydrologic and hydraulic modeling, flood risk reduction, and development of resilient infrastructure. The successful candidate will support and lead technical studies involving stormwater systems, flood control facilities, drainage master plans, pump stations, floodplain analyses, and watershed management projects for public agencies throughout California. Working alongside senior engineers and project managers, you will develop engineering solutions using advanced modeling tools, GIS technology, and data-driven analysis to address complex flooding, drainage, and climate resilience challenges.

This is a staffed, hourly, non-exempt position.

A day in the life as a Wood Rodgers' Project Engineer

• Develop hydrologic and hydraulic models for storm drain, watershed, floodplain, pump station, and flood control projects.
• Build, calibrate, validate, and maintain engineering models using historical rainfall, flow monitoring, and field data.
• Perform flood risk, drainage capacity, and infrastructure deficiency analyses.
• Evaluate alternatives and develop Capital Improvement Program (CIP) recommendations.
• Develop and manage GIS databases and map products to support engineering studies.
• Support preparation of drainage master plans, FEMA flood studies, and climate resilience assessments.
• Assist with pump station, channel, culvert, detention basin, and storm drain improvement projects.
• Prepare technical memoranda, engineering reports, exhibits, and client presentations.
• Conduct field investigations and coordinate with clients, agencies, and project stakeholders.
• Support preparation of plans, specifications, cost estimates, and construction documents.

Qualifications & Skills

• California Professional Engineer (PE) with a Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering and 5+ years of experience in water resources engineering.
• Experienced in hydrologic and hydraulic modeling using HEC-RAS, HEC-HMS, InfoWorks ICM, XP-SWMM, TUFLOW, and MIKE software.
• Proven expertise in 1D/2D hydraulic modeling, model calibration, floodplain mapping, FEMA studies, pump station analysis, and drainage master planning.
• Skilled in ArcGIS Pro, geospatial data management, and the application of data-driven solutions for water resources and stormwater projects.
• Experience supporting sea level rise assessments, climate resilience initiatives, and capital improvement planning.
• Strong analytical, technical writing, and communication skills with the ability to effectively present complex engineering and modeling results.
• Collaborative team player with experience mentoring junior staff, supporting project delivery, and developing high-quality engineering solutions.

A note on hourly pay ranges

The range does not reflect geographic variations and may fluctuate above or below the stated amount. Offers will be based on several factors, including experience, education, skills, licensure, certifications, training, and location. Base pay is just one part of the comprehensive compensation package offered by Wood Rodgers. If you feel you meet the requirements but may be outside of the pay range, please apply anyway and let’s talk through it.

How we elevate your game

Joining Wood Rodgers comes with perks to support you in your personal and professional journey.

• A Unique Culture: We’re an engineering firm that feels refreshingly different. As inventors who ask, “why not?”, our leadership empowers employees to grow, challenge conventions, and develop creative solutions. We host grand parties, offer surprise days off, and consistently reinvest in our employees rather than focusing solely on corporate profits. While these perks contribute to our vibrant culture, it's the remarkable people at the heart of it all - individuals who are passionate about learning, teaching, helping, and collaborating.
• Teamwork: Experience what it means to be part of the Wood Rodgers family. Be inspired by your leaders, supported and encouraged by your teammates to live a full and exciting life, and receive holistic support in your work and personal endeavors. Visit our website or follow us on social media @woodrodgersinc to get a glimpse of our dynamic community!
• Learning + Development: Engage in leadership development programs and goal setting to unlock new possibilities for your career and life. Grow within the company through mentorship and achieve your potential as a leader from the moment you’re hired.

About Wood Rodgers

At the core of our organizational ethos lies a straightforward yet powerful philosophy: we believe in assembling a dynamic team of individuals who bring diverse perspectives and unwavering passion to the table. Our commitment extends beyond mere recruitment; we are dedicated to nurturing and perpetuating a legacy company. This endeavor is fueled by a collective sense of identity that binds us together, coupled with a robust company culture that serves as the bedrock of our shared values and aspirations.