Hydrologic & Hydraulic (H&H) Engineer

Orange, CA
Full Time
Experienced
   ​

Hydrologic & Hydraulic (H&H) Engineer at Zephyr Rail

Zephyr Rail is seeking an experienced Hydrologic & Hydraulic (H&H) Engineer to join our growing design team. This role is ideal for a motivated professional with hands-on experience in drainage design and water resources engineering for rail transportation infrastructure, with Class I railroad experience strongly preferred. The successful candidate will lead and contribute to a range of H&H efforts including modeling, design, coordination, and permitting support.


Key Responsibilities:
  • Perform hydrologic and hydraulic analyses using tools such as HEC-RAS (1D/2D), HEC-HMS, HY-8, and CivilStorm.
  • Design stormwater systems, culverts, channel improvements, and erosion control measures for rail-related infrastructure including trackbed improvements, bridge approaches, and intermodal yard expansions.
  • Conduct floodplain assessments and support FEMA submittals and USACE Section 404 permit applications.
  • Prepare drainage reports, technical memoranda, and plan sets in coordination with internal and external project teams.
  • Collaborate across disciplines—track/civil, structural, environmental—and interface with clients, Class I railroads, public agencies, and municipalities.
  • Support QA/QC efforts and mentor junior staff as needed.
  • Represent Zephyr Rail in coordination meetings, permitting discussions, and field visits as appropriate.

Representative Projects at Zephyr Rail:
  • Hydraulic modeling and culvert design for LA Metro, Metrolink (SCRRA), CSX, UPRR and BNSF corridor improvements.
  • Floodplain mitigation for new rail bridge construction in FEMA-regulated zones.
  • Stormwater management design for rail siding extensions and yard capacity upgrades.
  • Drainage elements for Quiet Zone projects and at-grade crossing improvements.
  • Emergency drainage assessments for failed culverts and bridge scour risks.
Required Qualifications:
  • Bachelor’s degree in Civil or Environmental Engineering (or related field).
  • Engineer-in-Training (EIT) required; Professional Engineer (PE) license strongly preferred.
  • A minimum of 5 years of H&H experience, with 7+ years of consecutive experience in Class I railroad, commuter rail, or light rail transit projects preferred.
    • Class I experience (e.g., UPRR, BNSF, NS, CSX) is most relevant and strongly favored.
  • Proficiency with H&H modeling tools and familiarity with MicroStation and/or AutoCAD.
  • Working knowledge of railroad drainage standards, FEMA guidelines, and relevant permitting processes.
Additional Information:
  • May supervise junior engineers or CADD staff depending on project needs.
  • Hourly Pay Range: $40–$90/hour, depending on experience and licensure.
  • Flexible work environment with potential for hybrid/remote arrangements for qualified candidates.
  • Zephyr Rail supports professional development, licensure, and engagement in technical societies.


​Why Join Zephyr Rail?
  • Be part of a firm that values innovation and quality, having pioneered advanced engineering solutions in the rail sector and recognized as one of the fastest-growing AEC firms in North America.
  • Thrive in a culture celebrated for its excellence in employee satisfaction, professional development, and retention.
  • Contribute to high-profile rail projects that define the cutting-edge of North American rail infrastructure.
  • Unparalleled health benefits and 401k programs.

Salary Range: $83,200 - $187,200

Benefits: Employer-paid Medical, Dental, Vision insurance
PTO, Paid Holidays, 401K


*No outside Agencies or Recruiters, please!
Note to Recruiters and Job Placement Agencies: We do not accept unsolicited resumes or candidate profiles from recruiters or agencies. Any unsolicited resumes received will be considered our property and will be processed accordingly. Only direct applicants will be considered.

Explore more about us at www.zuirail.com or our careers page at www.zuirail.com/careers - If you don’t see what you’re looking for, please email your resume to us at [email protected] to become a part of a top-ranked team dedicated to redefining standards in the rail engineering industry. We look forward to hearing from you!
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