Principal Hydrogeologist (Water Rights)

Terraphase Engineering Inc.; Tacoma (WA); On-site; USD 150,000 - 205,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

401(k) match

Flexible work schedule

Job summary

An environmental consulting company is seeking a Principal Hydrogeologist in Tacoma, WA. This role involves managing water rights projects, ensuring compliance with regulations, and strong collaboration with project teams. Candidates should have 15+ years of experience, strong analytical skills, and be a licensed Hydrogeologist in Washington State. The position offers a competitive salary between $150,000 to $205,000 and an extensive benefits package, making it a rewarding opportunity for professionals passionate about environmental consulting.

Qualifications

• 15+ years of experience in hydrogeology for water rights projects.
• Knowledge of local, state, and federal water rights regulations.
• Experience in project management is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Conduct hydrogeological investigations and assessments.
• Provide expertise in water rights and regulatory compliance.
• Lead and develop business opportunities with clients.

Skills

Licensed Hydrogeologist (LHG) in Washington State

Strong analytical skills

Excellent communication skills

Modeling and data interpretation skills

Education

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in geological sciences

Tools

MODFLOW

ArcGIS

Job description

Join to apply for the Principal Hydrogeologist (Water Rights) role at Terraphase Engineering Inc.

Job Summary

We are seeking a Principal Hydrogeologist with a strong background in water rights to support our growing team in our Tacoma, WA office. The ideal candidate will have a solid understanding of hydrogeology and the regulatory and legal aspects of water rights. They will play a critical role in managing water rights‑related projects and ensuring compliance with local, state, and federal permits and regulations.

Responsibilities

• Conduct hydrogeological investigations and assessments.
• Provide expertise in water rights and regulatory compliance.
• Collaborate with project managers and clients to develop water resource management strategies.
• Prepare reports, permit applications, and regulatory documentation.
• Perform data analysis and modeling related to water resources.
• Stay up‑to‑date on changing regulations and policies affecting water rights.
• Manage and oversee project teams as necessary.
• Lead and develop business opportunities with new and existing clients.
• Identify and implement growth strategies.
• Communicate and coordinate with regulatory agencies and stakeholders.

Qualifications

• Licensed Hydrogeologist (LHG) in Washington State.
• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in geological sciences or a related field.
• 15+ years of experience in hydrogeology in support of water rights projects.
• Knowledge of local, state, and federal water rights regulations.
• Strong analytical, modeling, and data interpretation skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Experience with relevant software and tools (e.g., MODFLOW, ArcGIS).

Preferred Qualifications

• Project management experience.
• Experience working on a variety of hydrogeology and water rights‑related projects, including designing, performing, and analysing aquifer tests; evaluating well performance; preparing and interpreting geologic cross sections; and analytical and numerical groundwater flow modelling.
• Familiarity with Washington State geology and hydrogeology.
• Familiarity with Washington State water rights processes, regulations, and court cases.

About the Company

We are an environmental consulting company that offers cost‑effective solutions to complex environmental and engineering challenges. We apply technical expertise and keen awareness of the regulatory framework to achieve our clients’ project goals and objectives. The combined talent and experience of Terraphase’s engineers, geologists, and scientists form the foundation for a comprehensive environmental management approach. Terraphase was founded with the goal of developing a full‑service engineering and consulting firm that provides high‑quality services to clients with regional and nationwide operations. We are driven by creating valuable work products for our company and clients, and a rewarding environment for our employees. Our staff is comprised of registered professionals in civil engineering, geology, hydrogeology, and geotechnical engineering. Our unique company culture philosophy of appreciating and recognizing individuals for their work, leadership, and mentoring, while supporting and encouraging a healthy personal and professional lifestyle helps to make Terraphase one of the best places to work.

Benefits

Terraphase offers an extensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, employer‑paid life insurance, long‑term disability, a generous 401(k) match, commuter benefits, TerraLunches, TerraTalks, tuition/licensing/professional development reimbursement, flexible work schedule, and ongoing company‑sponsored events.

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement

Terraphase is an Equal Opportunity Employer, committed to an inclusive & diverse work environment where individual strengths and diverse viewpoints are respected and complement each other to achieve common goals. (EOE M/V/F/D)

Salary

Compensation for this position is based on years of experience, technical expertise, technical education, and geographic location with a range of $150,000 to $205,000.