Principal Hydrogeologist - Water Resources

RIM Recruitment Professionals; Denver (CO); On-site; USD 170,000 - 190,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Annual bonus

Employee-owned firm

Training opportunities

401(k) with profit-sharing

Medical, dental, and vision coverage

Job summary

RIM Recruitment Professionals is seeking a Principal Hydrogeologist – Water Resources in Denver, CO to lead hydrogeologic consulting across Colorado and the Rocky Mountain region. You will manage technical projects, mentor a team, and grow client relationships.

The role covers groundwater management, modeling, water rights, and water supply planning, with occasional support in CA, WA, TX, and New England. A strong client focus and proven project-winning track record are essential.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in hydrogeology, geology, civil or environmental engineering, hydrology, or related field.
• 15+ years as a hydrogeologist on water resources projects.
• Hands-on knowledge of Colorado water rights, planning, management, and development.
• Proven record of winning contracts and expanding services for clients.
• Excellent written and verbal communication with clients, subconsultants, regulators, and the public.
• Valid driver's license.

Responsibilities

• Guide and oversee conceptual models, water balances, numerical models, and groundwater sustainability plans.
• Lead Colorado water rights engineering, water supply assessments, and integrated supply strategies.
• Oversee well design, construction, and testing.
• Provide expert testimony and litigation support.
• Develop QA/QC protocols for projects and proposals.
• Track industry developments and identify new opportunities in Colorado.
• Hire, mentor, and develop early- to mid-career professionals.
• Strengthen technical capabilities across the organization.
• Represent the firm at client meetings, conferences, industry associations, and technical committees.
• Build and expand long-term client relationships.

Skills

Hydrogeology

Leadership

Project management

Client management

Technical communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in hydrogeology/geology/engineering

Master's degree (preferred)

Professional engineer or geoscientist license

Job description

Principal Hydrogeologist – Water Resources

Denver, CO | Full-Time | $170,000–$190,000 base + annual performance bonus

The Opportunity

Lead hydrogeologic consulting services across Colorado and the Rocky Mountain region, with occasional project support in California, Washington, Texas, and New England. Reporting to the Regional Director, you will manage technical projects, build and lead a team of hydrogeologists and groundwater modelers, and grow client relationships.

Projects span groundwater management, basin characterization, groundwater modeling, water rights engineering, water supply planning, reuse, managed aquifer recharge, and litigation support.

Key Responsibilities

Technical Leadership

Guide and oversee conceptual models, water balances, numerical models, and groundwater sustainability plans

Lead Colorado water rights engineering, water supply assessments, and integrated supply strategies

Oversee well design, construction, and testing

Provide expert testimony and litigation support

Develop quality assurance/quality control protocols for projects and proposals

Track industry developments and identify new opportunities in Colorado

Team and Business Leadership

Hire, mentor, and develop early- to mid-career professionals

Strengthen technical capabilities across the organization

Contribute to strategic planning and initiatives

Represent the firm at client meetings, conferences, industry associations, and technical committees

Build and expand long‑term client relationships

What You Bring

Required

Bachelor's degree in hydrogeology, geology, civil or environmental engineering, hydrology, earth sciences, or a related field

15+ years as a hydrogeologist on water resources projects

Hands‑on knowledge of Colorado water rights, planning, management, and development

Proven record of winning contracts and expanding services for clients

Strong client management skills and lasting client relationships

Excellent written and verbal communication with clients, subconsultants, regulators, and the public

Valid driver's license

Preferred

Master's degree

Professional engineer or geoscientist license

Experience in Colorado and the Rocky Mountain West

Work Environment and Travel

Fast‑paced setting with high workloads and frequent short deadlines

25–40% travel, mainly within Colorado, with occasional overnight stays

Ability to lift up to 25 lbs and to sit or stand for extended periods

Compensation and Benefits

• Base salary of $170,000–$190,000, based on skills, experience, qualifications, and location
• Annual performance bonus
• Employee‑owned firm with a strong work/life culture
• Career advancement and training opportunities
• 401(k) with profit‑sharing contributions
• Medical, dental, and vision coverage