Hydraulics and Drainage Engineer - job 1 of 3

As a Hydraulics and Drainage Engineer at AECOM, your key responsibilities will include performing hydraulic analysis and drainage design for various projects involving urban and rural roadways, interstate highways, and more. You will be actively engaged in engineering calculations, gathering and analyzing basic engineering data, and providing guidance to entry-level engineers. Your role is crucial in ensuring projects are completed within agreed budgets and schedules, requiring both independent work and collaboration with experienced professionals.

To qualify for the Hydraulics and Drainage Engineer position at AECOM, candidates should have a BA/BS degree in a related field along with a minimum of four years of relevant experience or demonstrated equivalency. Preferred qualifications include a PE License in Michigan and experience with hydraulic engineering, particularly in roadway projects. Proficiency with software such as HEC-RAS and Bentley ORD is also desirable.

As a Hydraulics and Drainage Engineer at AECOM, you’ll work on a variety of projects that include hydraulic analysis and drainage design for both urban and rural environments. This includes designing solutions for interstate highways, interchanges, detention/retention ponds, and managing MS4 compliance. Your work will contribute significantly to the infrastructure that supports communities, making it both a challenging and fulfilling role.

AECOM offers a comprehensive benefits package to Hydraulics and Drainage Engineers that supports a diverse range of needs. Depending on your employment status, benefits may include medical, dental, and vision insurance, life and disability coverage, paid time off, and flexible work options. Additionally, AECOM provides resources for well-being, an employee assistance program, retirement savings plans, and opportunities for professional development and training.

At AECOM, career growth is a priority, and Hydraulics and Drainage Engineers are supported through award-winning training and development programs. These programs focus on enhancing technical expertise and developing leadership skills. Employees are encouraged to pursue their career ambitions and are provided with a collaborative environment where innovation and creativity thrive, helping you to build the career you’ve envisioned.

When addressing the hydraulic analysis process in an interview for a Hydraulics and Drainage Engineer position, start by outlining the steps involved, such as defining project parameters, gathering data, and performing calculations using software. Emphasize the importance of accuracy and compliance with standards, and be prepared to discuss a specific example where your analysis led to effective solutions.

When asked about your experience with drainage design problems, share specific examples from previous projects that highlight your analytical and problem-solving skills. Discuss the methodologies you used, how you incorporated feedback, and the final outcomes of those projects to demonstrate your competence and contribute to AECOM's mission.

In responding to questions about managing project timelines and budgets, emphasize your organizational skills and experience with project management tools. Discuss how you prioritize tasks, communicate with team members, and adjust plans as necessary to stay on track. If possible, provide a real-world example where your management skills led to a successful project completion.

Be prepared to discuss your proficiency in software like HEC-RAS and Bentley ORD, referencing specific projects where you’ve used these tools. Explain how these programs helped streamline your design process and contributed to accuracy in hydraulic calculations, supporting your candidacy for the Hydraulics and Drainage Engineer role at AECOM.

When discussing compliance with regulations and standards, highlight your understanding of various engineering codes relevant to hydraulic and drainage design. Talk about your experience reviewing project documentation and your approach to ensuring that designs meet local, state, and federal guidelines, which is crucial for success at AECOM.

In answering this question, provide details about a specific complex project relevant to the Hydraulics and Drainage Engineer role. Clearly explain your contributions, the challenges faced, and how you collaborated with team members, showcasing your problem-solving skills and the significance of your role in achieving project goals.

When asked about staying updated in the field of hydraulic engineering, discuss your proactive approach to continuing education through workshops, webinars, and industry conferences. Highlight any recent courses or certifications, and mention your commitment to applying new technologies and methodologies to your work at AECOM.

In discussing your mentorship approach, emphasize the importance of knowledge sharing and collaboration. Describe how you provide guidance and support to junior engineers at AECOM, including specific strategies you employ, such as regular feedback and ensuring they have opportunities to take on meaningful tasks that promote their growth.

When answering about safety considerations, detail the specific practices you integrate during hydraulic design planning and implementation. Explain how you assess potential risks, the importance of compliance with safety regulations, and how you maintain open communication with project teams to ensure a safe working environment.

For this question, share your passion for hydraulic engineering and why you find it fulfilling. Discuss how your work directly impacts communities and the environment. This connection will resonate with AECOM's mission and show your commitment to making a meaningful difference through your engineering skills.