Hydraulics and Drainage Engineer - job 2 of 3

As a Hydraulics and Drainage Engineer at AECOM, you will be responsible for conducting hydraulic analyses and drainage design for various projects such as roadways and detention ponds. Key duties include performing engineering calculations, gathering data, identifying discrepancies in results, and mentoring entry-level engineers. You'll also have the opportunity to propose modifications to standard procedures to solve new challenges, making your role integral to project success.

To be considered for the Hydraulics and Drainage Engineer role at AECOM, you must have a BA/BS degree coupled with at least 4 years of relevant engineering experience. Additionally, having a PE License in Michigan and experience with hydraulic engineering, especially on roadway projects, will greatly enhance your application. Proficiency in HEC-RAS and Bentley ORD is preferred but not mandatory.

AECOM’s Hydraulics and Drainage Engineers work on a diverse range of projects. These may include urban and rural roadway drainage designs, interstate highways, and interchanges, as well as design-build opportunities and MS4 solutions. Each project presents unique challenges and the chance to apply innovative approaches to water management and infrastructure design.

AECOM is committed to fostering professional growth among Hydraulics and Drainage Engineers. The company offers award-winning training and development programs aimed at expanding your technical skills and leadership abilities. You will be part of a collaborative environment that encourages mentorship and personal growth, providing you with the resources necessary to achieve your career ambitions.

As a Hydraulics and Drainage Engineer at AECOM, you can expect a comprehensive benefits package that caters to diverse employee needs. Benefits may include medical, dental, and vision insurance, paid time off, and a retirement savings plan. AECOM also provides well-being resources, employee assistance programs, and professional development opportunities to ensure your success both personally and professionally.

Hydraulic analysis involves assessing how water flows through drainage systems or natural bodies of water. In your response, explain that as a Hydraulics and Drainage Engineer, you will use tools and calculations to model water flow, determine potential drainage issues, and propose design solutions that ensure effective management of water resources.

When asked about your approach to designing a drainage system, structure your answer by highlighting your process in gathering site-specific data, determining peak flow rates, and selecting appropriate materials. Emphasize your experience with simulations and modeling software to showcase your technical capabilities.

To manage budget constraints while maintaining quality, explain that you prioritize tasks based on impact and necessity. Discuss how you utilize established procedures to optimize resources and your ability to communicate effectively with stakeholders to align on project goals without compromising quality.

Share your familiarity with tools and software like HEC-RAS and Bentley ORD, as these are particularly relevant for a Hydraulics and Drainage Engineer at AECOM. Mention your experience in using these tools for modeling, designing, and analyzing drainage systems, reinforcing your technical expertise.

Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to describe a specific challenge you faced in a previous project. Highlight your analytical skills, problem-solving approach, and the positive impact your solution had on project outcomes, demonstrating your ability to handle similar challenges at AECOM.

In your response, mention your understanding of local and federal regulations relevant to drainage and hydraulic engineering. Explain your method for ensuring compliance, such as conducting thorough assessments, staying updated with regulation changes, and engaging with environmental specialists when necessary.

Discuss how teamwork is essential in engineering projects. Highlight your ability to collaborate with interdisciplinary teams, solve complex problems collectively, and foster a positive work environment. Sharing examples of successful collaborations can reinforce your answer.

Provide a brief overview of a recent project where you applied hydrologic modeling techniques. Describe your role, the challenges faced, and the successful outcomes achieved through your modeling efforts, if possible, quantify results to showcase the impact of your work.

When discussing mentorship, express your commitment to fostering the growth of entry-level engineers. Describe your approach in providing constructive feedback, sharing knowledge, and creating an open environment that encourages questions and learning, helping to build their skills and confidence.

Share your passion for hydraulics engineering by discussing specific aspects you find exciting, whether it’s the challenge of resolving water management issues, implementing innovative designs, or the impact your work has on communities. Relating your interests to AECOM's mission can also help strengthen your answer.