Areas of Practice

Engineers employed by public agencies may have responsibility for operation of civil works infrastructure. For example, water supply and flood management agencies will employ water resources engineers as decision makers for operating reservoir systems or systems of aqueducts, pipes, pumps, diversions, and other water control measures. Initially, engineers in these positions will complete analyses with mathematical models and field surveys to provide information for the decision making. Experienced engineers will be responsible for operations that meet multiple, sometimes conflicting, objectives.
Engineers with an emphasis in water resources could work for either a consulting firm or a government agency that focuses on developing or protecting water resources, protecting natural ecosystems, restoring altered ecosystems, or providing for safety of the public and property. At first this work might include basic evaluation of hydrologic processes or modeling of watersheds. At a more advanced level, management and policy decisions regarding water resources would be part of the position.