Confidential Client Staff Engineer (Entry-Level)
The Entry-Level Hydrologic & Hydraulic Staff Engineer at Confidential Client supports H&H analysis and modeling for hydropower and river restoration projects, collaborating closely with multidisciplinary teams throughout all project phases. This role offers opportunities to develop expertise in floodplain management, dam assessments, hydropower feasibility, and fish passage engineering while working in a hybrid environment with a focus on technical excellence and professional growth.
About Careertakes
👉 Important disclosure: Careertakes is a third-party recruiting platform supporting this hiring process. If selected, you will be employed directly by our client, Engineering (Hydropower & Water Resources Consulting).
Applicants for this role may also receive access to additional matched opportunities through the Careertakes platform.
Compensation
Confidential Client is offering a salary range of $70,000–$90,000 per year (based on experience). This role is full-time and includes benefits listed below.
What You’ll Do
Confidential Client is hiring an entry-level Hydrologic & Hydraulic (H&H) Staff Engineer to support hydropower, river‑restoration, and water‑resources projects. As an early-career engineer you will work with mid-level and senior staff on project delivery from conceptual design through construction documentation and reporting.
- Perform H&H analysis and hydraulic modeling (HEC‑RAS, HEC‑HMS, SRH‑2D preferred)
- Assist with design calculations: open‑channel flow, pressurized conveyance, dam breach and hazard assessments
- Support spatial data processing and mapping in ArcGIS and CAD (AutoCAD Civil 3D)
- Participate in site visits, field data collection, and survey/RTK support
- Produce technical memos, reports, and client deliverables; present results in team meetings
- Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams (scientists, data analysts, licensing specialists) to develop project solutions
Who You Are / Qualifications
We seek a candidate with foundational engineering knowledge and a desire to grow technical H&H skills.
- Bachelor of Civil Engineering (concentration in Hydrology & Hydraulics or equivalent)
- Entry-level / recent graduate (EIT certification preferred)
- Coursework or hands-on experience with hydraulic or hydrologic modeling tools (HEC‑RAS, HEC‑HMS, SRH‑2D)
- Familiarity with ArcGIS and/or AutoCAD Civil 3D; exposure to CFD tools (FLOW‑3D, Star‑CCM+) is a plus
- Strong written and verbal communication skills; proficiency in MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint
- Ability to work effectively in a team environment and manage tasks under supervision
Additional Requirements
- Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States at the time of hire. This position is not eligible for employer‑sponsored work authorization now or in the future.
- Must be willing to travel for site visits as required.
- Must possess a valid driver’s license.
- Preference for candidates able to work hybrid (in-office ~3 days/week) in Portland, OR; remote applicants with relevant experience will be considered.
Benefits & Perks
- Competitive salary within posted range
- Bonus program
- Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans
- 401(k) with 4% employer match and 100% immediate vesting
- Paid time off and 10 floating holidays
- Company-paid short-term disability and life insurance
- Paid parental leave
- Tuition assistance and professional development support
- Employee ownership program
About the Role & Career Growth
This position provides hands-on training and exposure to specialized H&H work including floodplain management, dam decommissioning and breach analysis, hydropower feasibility, and fish passage engineering. You’ll build technical expertise working on real projects, participating in fieldwork, performing modeling and analysis, and preparing technical deliverables — an excellent opportunity for early-career engineers looking to grow in water resources and hydropower consulting.
Process & Candidate Experience
Careertakes and Confidential Client aim to provide a respectful, transparent hiring process. Typical steps:
- Resume review and initial screening
- One or two interviews with technical and hiring team members
- References request for top candidate(s)
- Benefits call and formal offer
Equal Opportunity & Hiring Transparency
Careertakes and our client are Equal Opportunity Employers committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. We prohibit discrimination or harassment of any kind. To support a fair and efficient hiring process, AI tools may be used to assist with application review or resume screening. These tools do not replace human decision-making. Final hiring decisions are made by people.
If you have questions about how your data is used, please contact us directly.
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