Hydrologic & Hydraulic (H&H) Engineer
Job title: Hydrologic & Hydraulic (H&H) Engineer in Orange, CA at Zephyr U A S Inc
Company: Zephyr U A S Inc
Job description: Hydrologic & Hydraulic (H&H) Engineer at Zephyr RailZephyr 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.