Hydrological Engineer

About the role

SMEC is looking for a motivated Hydrological Engineer to support the planning, design and implementation of major road and highway projects in Papua New Guinea. The role involves delivering hydrological assessments, flood studies, drainage designs and watershed analyses to ensure safe and resilient transportation infrastructure.

Key responsibilities

• Conduct hydrological and hydraulic studies for roads, highways, bridges and drainage works.
• Develop hydrologic models to estimate runoff, peak flows and design flood levels.
• Design road drainage systems, cross‑drainage structures, storm‑water management facilities and erosion control measures.
• Prepare technical reports, calculations, drawings and specifications in line with project requirements.
• Support environmental impact assessments related to water resources.

Required profile

• Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, Water Resources Engineering, Hydrology or a related discipline (Master’s preferred).
• Minimum five years of experience in hydrological analysis, flood risk modelling and hydraulic design for infrastructure projects, preferably funded by multilateral development banks.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills in English.
• Open to all genders.

Required skills

• Hydrologic and hydraulic modeling.
• Flood frequency and floodplain analysis.
• Highway drainage and storm‑water design.
• Bridge and culvert hydraulic assessment.
• Proficiency with engineering software such as HEC‑HMS, HEC‑RAS, SWMM or equivalent.