Water Resources Engineer – Mid Level (Hybrid)
Confirmed on the employer's own hiring board on Oct 18, 2026. First seen by Alion on Oct 15, 2026. Barr scores B on the Alion truth index.
Water Resources Engineer - Mid-Level
Job Description
The role - what you’ll do
Barr is seeking a water resources engineer to join our Des Moines team. In this hybrid role, you will provide support on hydrologic and hydraulic analysis related to stormwater planning and flood control; hydraulic analysis and design related to rivers, streams, conveyances, dams, and other hydraulic structures; water-quality analysis in urban and/or rural settings; and preparation of technical reports, plans, and specifications.
A successful person in this role will have strong interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills. They must possess a flexible working style and be willing to occasionally modify their schedule to meet deadlines and/or client needs.
Your impact - key responsibilities
- Technical knowledge: water resources challenges such as precipitation and flooding data analysis, urban and rural hydrologic analysis, open channel and pipe flow analysis, hydraulic structures, bank stabilization, stream and lake restoration, floodplain analysis and mapping, dam break analysis, dam and levee design, hydrologic and hydraulic modeling approaches, and commonly used software.
- Reporting: assist in preparing technical reports, plans, and specifications, and work with clients, permitting agencies, and public officials.
- Project & task management: assist with planning, coordinating, and executing projects. Help ensure project milestones are met and provide regular updates to project managers and clients.
- Permitting: assist with permitting strategies, agency coordination, and compliance with regulations related to streams, wetlands, floodplains, stormwater, and water resources infrastructure. Coordinate multidisciplinary project teams to deliver technically sound and permit-ready designs while helping clients navigate complex regulatory requirements.
About the opportunity
- Hybrid: a hybrid work arrangement may be considered for this position. A hybrid work arrangement refers to splitting time worked between a Barr office and a home office, with at least three days, on average, in the Des Moines office. This position is based in Barr’s Des Moines, Iowa, office.
- Work environment: ability to work in an office environment. Candidates must be able to perform job duties with or without reasonable accommodation.
About you - required core competencies
- Education: bachelor’s degree in civil, environmental, or related engineering discipline with an emphasis on water resources.
- Experience: 5+ years of water resources engineering experience with a focus on hydrology, hydraulics, or water quality. Experience leading tasks or projects.
- Software: experience and knowledge of hydrologic modeling and 1D and/or 2D hydraulic modeling software and Autodesk C3d.
- Driver’s license: possession of a current, valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record.
- Must be legally authorized to work in the United States without the need for sponsorship by Barr, now or in the future.
Helpful additional experience (not required)
- Master's degree or PhD in civil or environmental engineering with a focus on water resources.
- Professional Engineer (PE) license.
- Experience in business development and client management.
- Working knowledge of GIS.
- Experience with site development design, plans, and/or specifications.
Compensation: Anticipated range of $90,000-$105,000 annually. Compensation will vary based on relevant experience, education, skill level, and other compensable factors. Employees in this position may also be eligible for a discretionary cash bonus based on team and individual performance. This position is classified as exempt (salaried) under the Fair Labor Standards Act.
Benefits - what we offer
We are committed to providing an employee experience that attracts and retains top talent. That's why we offer a competitive package of employee benefits - including some unique offerings not found at other companies. At Barr, we also believe that learning doesn't stop when you get your degree, which is why we provide coaching, mentoring, and support for ongoing educational opportunities to foster professional development at every stage of your career.
Competitive, affordable insurance plans: Medical, dental, vision, life, disability, accidental death insurance, and flexible spending accounts for medical and dependent care
Retirement benefits: 401(k) retirement savings plan with company contribution and an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) with company contribution in Barr stock
Profit distribution: Barr has a "no retained earnings" model and distributes all profit to our employees through our annual bonus distribution plan, ESOP, and dividends to shareholders
Professional development benefits: Annual time and expense allowances, mentorship program, and many internal training opportunities
Work/life balance: Paid time off, holidays, overtime for non-exempt/hourly staff, and compensatory time for exempt/salaried staff (time off or pay for extra time worked), paid family leave
Wellness focus: Ergonomic analysis and equipment, Personal Protective Equipment allowance, wellbeing-focused educational opportunities
Please note that benefits eligibility is determined and may change based on part-time, reduced-time, or full-time status.
About us - why choose Barr
At Barr, you'll join a community of engineers, scientists, and professionals who will help you achieve your ambitions and build a meaningful, rewarding career. You'll serve as a trusted advisor to clients who value Barr's tailored solutions and commitment to exceptional service.
As part of our employee-owned firm, you'll contribute to a culture of commitment and camaraderie where staff can thrive as professionals. We value diverse perspectives and experiences and believe an inclusive workplace is critical to our success.
To learn more about Barr's culture and values, visit: https://www.barr.com/Careers/Our-culture
Open positions at Barr Engineering Co. do not have application deadlines. Barr Engineering Co. is an equal opportunity employer, and all applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.