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About the Company

Underwood & Associates, Inc. is committed to combining the needs of a developing society with an adjusting environment by restoring native ecosystems through our regenerative philosophy. Our Design/Build process and our nature-based approach empower us to embrace the energies found in nature – rather than armoring against them- to truly restore our waterways and ensure their resiliency over time.

Underwood & Associates, Inc. invented the Regenerative Stream Channel (RSC), Step Pool Storm Conveyance (SPSC), and Dynamic Living Shoreline approaches that have been adopted by many local, state, and federal agencies across the Chesapeake Bay Watershed and around the world. The Regenerative philosophy is embedded in our organizational identity and we work within a nature-based approach in all that we do. From urban stormwater retrofits to stream restorations to dynamic living shorelines at tidewater, we have been and continue to lead the way on science, public policy, and implementation of true environmental restoration projects.

Position Summary

We are looking for an experienced Water Resources/Coastal Engineer to contribute to the planning, design, and implementation of our nature-based ecological restoration and green infrastructure projects. In this role, you will develop constructible, science-based designs focused on restoring natural flow processes, improving water quality, and enhancing habitat function. This is a rewarding opportunity where your efforts will directly contribute to the success of the company and the health of our environment and the Chesapeake and Coastal Bays.

Key Responsibilities

Engineering & Design

  • Perform hydrologic and hydraulic (H&H) analyses for: Stream and river restoration projects, Floodplain reconnection and wetland restoration, Stormwater management and green infrastructure systems, Living shorelines and coastal resilience projects
  • Develop hydraulic models using HEC-RAS (1D/2D), HydroCAD, HEC-HMS, Delft3D, SMS, and other industry-standard software.
  • Prepare grading, drainage, and conveyance designs.
  • Design stable channel geometries using fluvial geomorphology principles.
  • Develop erosion and sediment control plans.
  • Assess/ calculate TMDL reductions using Chesapeake Bay Expert Panel Protocols

Planning & Permitting Support

  • Prepare technical reports, design narratives, calculations, and plan exhibits for regulatory submittals.
  • Support preparation of permit applications for USACE, state, and local agencies (Section 404/401, floodplain, wetlands, critical areas).
  • Prepare restoration performance standards and monitoring criteria.
  • Coordinate with federal, state, and county agencies

Construction Support

  • Provide technical input during bidding and construction phases.
  • Participate in construction observations, site visits, and field adaptive management.

Data Analysis & Field Work

  • Analyze hydrologic data, precipitation records, USGS gauge data, and watershed characteristics.
  • Support field assessments, including: Wetland Delineations, Vegetation assessments, Geomorphic Surveys
  • Collaborate with surveyors, landscape architects, clients, and environmental scientists.

Client & Team Collaboration

  • Work closely with ecologists, landscape architects, and planners to integrate engineering and ecological goals.
  • Participate in client meetings, agency coordination, and stakeholder presentations.
  • Participate in industry events and present at local/ regional conferences

Required Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, Environmental Engineering, or related field.
  • Professional Engineer (PE) license or ability to obtain within a defined timeframe.
  • 2–7+ years of experience in water resources or restoration design.
  • Proficiency with: HEC-RAS (1D/2D), AutoCAD Civil 3D, GIS platforms (ArcGIS/QGIS)
  • Strong understanding of: Open channel hydraulics, Hydrology and watershed processes, Floodplain and wetland systems, Coastal Processes
  • Strong technical writing and communication skills

Preferred Qualifications

  • Master’s degree in Water Resources, Hydraulics, or related discipline.
  • Experience with: Regenerative Stream Conveyance Design, Stream restoration, Floodplain reconnection, Dam removal or fish passage projects, Living shorelines
  • Familiarity with: USACE permitting, FEMA floodplain regulations, State stormwater design manuals, NEPA and environmental review processes

Physical Requirements

  • Ability to perform fieldwork in streams, wetlands, and construction environments.
  • Ability to carry equipment, work outdoors in varied weather, and walk on uneven terrain.

Compensation and Benefits

  • Annual starting salary of $95,000-$100,000 based on experience
  • Health, dental, and vision insurance (company pays 70% of employee’s premium)
  • Paid time off and holidays
  • Lunch stipend provided
  • Opportunities for professional development, certifications, and licensure support
  • Meaningful, place-based work that improves water quality and ecological function

Pay: $95,000.00 – $100,000.00 per year

Benefits:

  • 401(k)
  • 401(k) matching
  • Dental insurance
  • Health insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Professional development assistance
  • Vision insurance

Work Location: In person