Water Resource Specialists
O*NET 11-9121.02 · SOC 11-9121
Water Resource Specialist is a solid career choice. Median pay is $82k a year with +6.1% projected growth through 2035 (about as fast as average) and about 7,300 openings a year. AI exposure: Moderate.
Bureau of Labor Statistics projections 2025–2035 · Data updated 2026-07-27
What You'd Actually Do
- →Analyze watershed data to assess local water quality conditions
- →Develop water conservation plans for municipalities or agencies
- →Monitor stream flow levels and groundwater recharge rates
- →Review permits for projects that may impact water resources
- →Coordinate with stakeholders on drought response and water allocation
Education & How to Get In
A bachelor's degree is the standard entry point for Water Resource Specialist roles. Related majors and internship experience during college significantly improve your chances. Many employers also value relevant certifications or project portfolios alongside the degree.
Get Started Learning
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Work Environment
Analytical, research labs, offices, or remote
Independent, focused deep work with periodic team check-ins
A Day in the Life
While every role varies by employer and specialization, a typical day as a Water Resource Specialist involves a mix of core responsibilities:
Personality Fit (RIASEC)
Who Thrives as Water Resource Specialist?
Based on the interests and work style this role actually demands, these personality types tend to fit it best. Salary and growth tell you if a career is worth entering; personality fit tells you whether you'll still want it in five years.
Not sure which you are? Take the 7-minute quiz →
See Open Water Resource Specialist Roles
Browse live openings to get a feel for requirements and pay in your area.
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Job Outlook
Employment of Water Resource Specialists is projected to grow 6.1% from 2025 to 2035, about as fast as average for all occupations. The BLS flags this as a Bright Outlook occupation.
Will AI Replace This Job?
- ·26% creative/strategic tasks, AI augments, doesn't replace
Scored from the mix of routine, creative, physical and social tasks the role involves, adjusted for sector and projected growth. An estimate, not a forecast.
Common Questions
How much does a Water Resource Specialist make?
The median Water Resource Specialist earns $82k a year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' May 2025 wage data. Half earn more than that and half earn less, and pay varies considerably by state, industry and experience.
Will AI replace Water Resource Specialist jobs?
Our model puts Water Resource Specialist at 35 out of 100 for automation exposure, which is moderate, likely AI-complementary. The main drivers: 26% creative/strategic tasks, AI augments, doesn't replace.
Is Water Resource Specialist a growing field?
Employment is projected to grow 6.1% between 2025 and 2035, which is about as fast as average. That works out to roughly 7,300 openings a year, counting both new positions and people leaving the occupation.
What degree do you need to be a Water Resource Specialist?
A bachelor's degree is the standard entry point for Water Resource Specialist roles, and relevant internships matter as much as the subject.
How long does it take to become a Water Resource Specialist?
Typically about four years, typically a bachelor's degree. O*NET classes this role as Job Zone 4 of 5, which describes how much preparation people in it usually have.
Is a Water Resource Specialist career right for you?
Your personality, values, and strengths matter as much as the job market. Take the quiz to see your personalized Future-Fit Score for this career and hundreds more.
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