Hydraulic Engineer- Spillway Modeling and Dam Hydraulics

Job Description

Job Description

Hydraulic Engineer- Spillway Modeling & Dam Hydraulics

Madison, Wisconsin

Ayres' River Engineering and Water Resources Group is seeking a Hydraulic Engineer to support the analysis and design of dams, spillways, outlet works, and complex river systems. This opportunity is ideal for an engineer who enjoys solving challenging hydraulic problems and wants to grow under the guidance of experienced dam and hydraulic modeling specialists.

On any given day, you’ll:

• Evaluate the hydraulic performance of dams, spillways, outlet works, and related infrastructure.
• Assist with hydraulic analyses using engineering calculations, numerical models, and field data.
• Develop and support 1D, 2D, and 3D hydraulic models, including FLOW-3D training and application.
• Interpret model results and help prepare technical reports, figures, and client deliverables.
• Participate in field investigations, dam inspections, and occasional construction support activities.
• Collaborate with project managers, engineers, clients, and regulatory agencies.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering, Water Resources Engineering, Hydraulic Engineering, or related field.
• Engineer-in-Training (EIT) certification.
• Coursework, internship, research, or professional experience related to hydraulics, fluid mechanics, water resources, river engineering, or hydraulic structures.
• Experience applying computational fluid dynamics (CFD) modeling through graduate research, internships, laboratory work, or professional experience.
• Working knowledge of fluid mechanics and open-channel hydraulics.
• Ability and willingness to perform fieldwork at dam, spillway, river, and heavy civil construction sites.
• A valid driver’s license and good driving record.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master's degree in a related engineering discipline.
• Experience with FLOW-3D.
• Experience with physical hydraulic modeling of spillways, outlet works, and energy-dissipation structures.
• Familiarity with dams, spillways, flood studies, or river systems.

Benefits of being part of the Ayres team: 

• Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)
• 401(k) with company match
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Paid time off, holidays, and flexible scheduling
• Professional development and technical mentoring

Join a team where you'll work on meaningful water resources projects while building specialized expertise in dam safety and hydraulic engineering.