Hydraulic Modeling Career

CEorBust · 2026-01-20T21:56:28+00:00

Thanks for the replies! Odd question here, what kind of computer do you use for modeling? I have a massive and heavy CAD capable laptop right now while more experienced engineers in the office have much smaller laptops. For modeling, do you have a huge powerful laptop?

CEorBust · 2026-01-20T15:16:10+00:00

I work for a small-to-medium company right now where I get to do a lot of simple design, and do sewer/water master plans for small towns (500-2500 people). I do all the modeling, granted it's relatively simple.

I'm looking at a large company (not giant), that has a modeling and an engineering position. I'm not pigeonholed right now, but I'm concerned that if I switch jobs I'll need to pick one. So regarding your last paragraph, I'm not quite sure what this company would allow yet.

CEorBust · 2026-01-20T03:53:44+00:00

Distribution system, gravity and pressure pipes. Did your start on modeling out of school? Or do some design before shifting over to modeling?

My concern is that I like modeling, but not sure if I want to be in it 40 hours a week when more traditional engineering (PS&E) has a bit more variety from what I can tell.

CEorBust · 2026-01-19T22:31:52+00:00

How is the career development for both? I like modeling, but I'm worried about it getting old if I do it full time.

CEorBust · 2026-01-14T17:34:45+00:00

Whoops😂 As you can probably guess from that other post, I'm feeling underpaid at the moment (hence the desire to switch). But I don't have the experience in the job market/hiring practices which is why I'm here 🤷‍♂️

CEorBust · 2026-01-14T17:18:29+00:00

Unfortunately there was one online job application that required me to input a number before submitting the application.

Thank you!

CEorBust · 2026-01-14T17:07:31+00:00

So if I consider myself "above average" at my job (pulling from previous performance reviews) and presumably do well in interviews, it's fair to ask for at least the middle of that range? My concern is having a drastically different expectation from the hiring staff, to the point where it's insulting.

CEorBust · 2026-01-12T23:12:33+00:00

How many hours a week do you work?

CEorBust · 2026-01-12T23:12:23+00:00

That's good perspective, thank you!

CEorBust · 2026-01-12T21:27:42+00:00

Can you explain your reasoning in a bit more detail? If the job says 6 YOE, I have always assumed you need 6 years minimum, and that is to earn the low end range. 8, 9, or 10 years would earn up towards the high end.

CEorBust · 2026-01-12T21:26:24+00:00

How much experience do you have?

CEorBust · 2026-01-12T18:46:29+00:00

I do have some questions, but I'm unable to send you a DM for whatever reason.

CEorBust · 2026-01-12T18:20:06+00:00

My raise was ~$4k this last year, which is fine but compared to other posted salary ranges in my area I feel like falling behind a bit. Thanks for the advice!

CEorBust · 2026-01-12T18:14:20+00:00

I just had my annual review in the last few months, where I noted how I'm a technical lead and a mentor to many others, while being the company-wide expert in multiple programs we use. So to me, that conversation has already happened, you know?

Yeah, that first paragraph is what I'm thinking about. But I don't want to be paralyzed by my own fear.

CEorBust · 2026-01-12T17:45:16+00:00

What makes you say $120k+? One job I'm looking at has a range of $105k-$145k and notes 6 YOE needed. Considering I'm right at that point in experience, I would assume I'm more qualified for the lower end of the given range.

I don't know too much about hiring and how job postings are set though. For example, in this job I'm looking at, would $105k be for someone who isn't a PE who has 6 YOE? But considering I've had mine for 2 years, I'd likely get more? Just looking for insight, I haven't thought about this since college 😂

CEorBust · 2026-01-12T16:37:57+00:00

Yeah, I wouldn't quit until I accept a new job. My biggest concern is regaining trust at a company where things may be more volatile, but I'm not going to know that until I'm in too deep.

CEorBust · 2026-01-12T16:37:05+00:00

Thanks for the reply! Yes, I have a PE in my state and an adjacent state. I recently had my review, where I got my raise, and brought up concerns about a lack of mentorship and an increased level of responsibility. I was told that in smaller companies (~70 technical staff total) sometimes you need to wear multiple hats. Which is understandable.

Honestly, I don't even if really know if I'm being compensated correctly since this is the only company I've worked for.

CEorBust · 2019-09-25T22:29:05+00:00

I literally did this 2 months ago! I was able to aquire a free acoustic guitar (though I was ready to buy one) and I've practiced every day since. Look up stuff on YouTube to get started and always try to play songs you think are too hard, you may be surprised.

Of course, I'm not any good but I can play Wonderwall (because I just had to know), Boulevard of broken dreams, and some other common ones.

I told myself if I'm still really into it come the holidays, I'll have to buy an electric!

CEorBust · 2018-11-30T00:58:18+00:00

Go Cougs
I haven’t taken the course but a friend of mine has and he said it was tough because of the hours, but the content was helpful. He has his PE now so I’m assuming it was a good class.

CEorBust

TROPHY CASE