<?xml version="1.0" encoding="utf-8"?>
<!--XBRL document created with Toppan Merrill Bridge  10.7.0.1 -->
<!--Based on XBRL 2.1-->
<!--Created on: 8/1/2024 9:03:36 PM-->
<!--Modified on: 8/1/2024 9:03:36 PM-->
<link:linkbase xmlns:xsi="http://www.w3.org/2001/XMLSchema-instance" xsi:schemaLocation="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase http://www.xbrl.org/2003/xbrl-linkbase-2003-12-31.xsd" xmlns:link="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink" xmlns:xbrli="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/instance">
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#DocumentDocumentAndEntityInformation" roleURI="http://www.willdan.com/role/DocumentDocumentAndEntityInformation" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#StatementCondensedConsolidatedBalanceSheets" roleURI="http://www.willdan.com/role/StatementCondensedConsolidatedBalanceSheets" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#StatementCondensedConsolidatedBalanceSheetsParenthetical" roleURI="http://www.willdan.com/role/StatementCondensedConsolidatedBalanceSheetsParenthetical" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#StatementCondensedConsolidatedStatementsOfComprehensiveIncome" roleURI="http://www.willdan.com/role/StatementCondensedConsolidatedStatementsOfComprehensiveIncome" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#StatementCondensedConsolidatedStatementsOfStockholdersEquity" roleURI="http://www.willdan.com/role/StatementCondensedConsolidatedStatementsOfStockholdersEquity" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#StatementCondensedConsolidatedStatementsOfCashFlows" roleURI="http://www.willdan.com/role/StatementCondensedConsolidatedStatementsOfCashFlows" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#DisclosureOrganizationAndOperationsOfCompany" roleURI="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureOrganizationAndOperationsOfCompany" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#DisclosureRecentAccountingPronouncements" roleURI="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureRecentAccountingPronouncements" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#DisclosureRevenues" roleURI="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureRevenues" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#DisclosureSupplementalFinancialStatementData" roleURI="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureSupplementalFinancialStatementData" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#DisclosureDerivativeFinancialInstruments" roleURI="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureDerivativeFinancialInstruments" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#DisclosureDebtObligations" roleURI="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureDebtObligations" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#DisclosureLeases" roleURI="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureLeases" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#DisclosureCommitmentsAndVariableInterestEntities" roleURI="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureCommitmentsAndVariableInterestEntities" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#DisclosureSegmentAndGeographicalInformation" roleURI="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureSegmentAndGeographicalInformation" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#DisclosureIncomeTaxes" roleURI="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureIncomeTaxes" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#DisclosureEarningsPerShareEps" roleURI="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureEarningsPerShareEps" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#DisclosureContingencies" roleURI="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureContingencies" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#DisclosureSubsequentEvents" roleURI="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureSubsequentEvents" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#DisclosureOrganizationAndOperationsOfCompanyPolicies" roleURI="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureOrganizationAndOperationsOfCompanyPolicies" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#DisclosureRevenuesTables" roleURI="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureRevenuesTables" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#DisclosureSupplementalFinancialStatementDataTables" roleURI="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureSupplementalFinancialStatementDataTables" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#DisclosureDerivativeFinancialInstrumentsTables" roleURI="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureDerivativeFinancialInstrumentsTables" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#DisclosureDebtObligationsTables" roleURI="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureDebtObligationsTables" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#DisclosureLeasesTables" roleURI="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureLeasesTables" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#DisclosureSegmentAndGeographicalInformationTables" roleURI="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureSegmentAndGeographicalInformationTables" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#DisclosureEarningsPerShareEpsTables" roleURI="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureEarningsPerShareEpsTables" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#DisclosureOrganizationAndOperationsOfCompanySegmentInformationDetails" roleURI="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureOrganizationAndOperationsOfCompanySegmentInformationDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#DisclosureOrganizationAndOperationsOfCompanyFiscalYearsDetails" roleURI="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureOrganizationAndOperationsOfCompanyFiscalYearsDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#DisclosureRecentAccountingPronouncementsDetails" roleURI="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureRecentAccountingPronouncementsDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#DisclosureRevenuesSegmentInformationDetails" roleURI="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureRevenuesSegmentInformationDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#DisclosureRevenuesGeneralInformationDetails" roleURI="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureRevenuesGeneralInformationDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#DisclosureSupplementalFinancialStatementDataRestrictedCashDetails" roleURI="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureSupplementalFinancialStatementDataRestrictedCashDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#DisclosureSupplementalFinancialStatementDataEquipmentAndLeaseholdImprovementsNetTabularDisclosureDetails" roleURI="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureSupplementalFinancialStatementDataEquipmentAndLeaseholdImprovementsNetTabularDisclosureDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#DisclosureSupplementalFinancialStatementDataEquipmentAndLeaseholdImprovementsNetDepreciationAndAmortizationExpenseDetails" roleURI="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureSupplementalFinancialStatementDataEquipmentAndLeaseholdImprovementsNetDepreciationAndAmortizationExpenseDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#DisclosureSupplementalFinancialStatementDataAccruedLiabilitiesDetails" roleURI="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureSupplementalFinancialStatementDataAccruedLiabilitiesDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#DisclosureSupplementalFinancialStatementDataGoodwillDetails" roleURI="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureSupplementalFinancialStatementDataGoodwillDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#DisclosureSupplementalFinancialStatementDataFiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsGrossAmountsAndAccumulatedAmortizationDetails" roleURI="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureSupplementalFinancialStatementDataFiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsGrossAmountsAndAccumulatedAmortizationDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#DisclosureSupplementalFinancialStatementDataFiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsAmortizationPeriodDetails" roleURI="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureSupplementalFinancialStatementDataFiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsAmortizationPeriodDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#DisclosureDerivativeFinancialInstrumentsGeneralInformationDetails" roleURI="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureDerivativeFinancialInstrumentsGeneralInformationDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#DisclosureDerivativeFinancialInstrumentsCashFlowHedgeEffectivenessDetails" roleURI="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureDerivativeFinancialInstrumentsCashFlowHedgeEffectivenessDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#DisclosureDerivativeFinancialInstrumentsFairValueDetails" roleURI="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureDerivativeFinancialInstrumentsFairValueDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#DisclosureDerivativeFinancialInstrumentsAccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeLossDetails" roleURI="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureDerivativeFinancialInstrumentsAccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeLossDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#DisclosureDebtObligationsCompositionDetails" roleURI="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureDebtObligationsCompositionDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#DisclosureDebtObligationsClassificationDetails" roleURI="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureDebtObligationsClassificationDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#DisclosureDebtObligationsNewCreditFacilitiesDetails" roleURI="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureDebtObligationsNewCreditFacilitiesDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#DisclosureLeasesGeneralInformationDetails" roleURI="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureLeasesGeneralInformationDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#DisclosureLeasesLeaseExpenseDetails" roleURI="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureLeasesLeaseExpenseDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#DisclosureLeasesConsolidatedBalanceSheetDetails" roleURI="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureLeasesConsolidatedBalanceSheetDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#DisclosureLeasesAdditionalInformationDetails" roleURI="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureLeasesAdditionalInformationDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#DisclosureLeasesRentExpenseDetails" roleURI="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureLeasesRentExpenseDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#DisclosureLeasesSupplementalCashFlowInformationDetails" roleURI="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureLeasesSupplementalCashFlowInformationDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#DisclosureLeasesOperatingLeasesMaturitiesOfLeaseLiabilitiesDetails" roleURI="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureLeasesOperatingLeasesMaturitiesOfLeaseLiabilitiesDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#DisclosureLeasesOperatingLeasesGrossDifferenceDetails" roleURI="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureLeasesOperatingLeasesGrossDifferenceDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#DisclosureLeasesFinanceLeasesMaturitiesOfLeaseLiabilitiesDetails" roleURI="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureLeasesFinanceLeasesMaturitiesOfLeaseLiabilitiesDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#DisclosureLeasesFinanceLeasesGrossDifferenceDetails" roleURI="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureLeasesFinanceLeasesGrossDifferenceDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#DisclosureCommitmentsAndVariableInterestEntitiesEmployeeBenefitPlansDetails" roleURI="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureCommitmentsAndVariableInterestEntitiesEmployeeBenefitPlansDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#DisclosureCommitmentsAndVariableInterestEntitiesVariableInterestEntitiesDetails" roleURI="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureCommitmentsAndVariableInterestEntitiesVariableInterestEntitiesDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#DisclosureSegmentAndGeographicalInformationSegmentInformationDetails" roleURI="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureSegmentAndGeographicalInformationSegmentInformationDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#DisclosureSegmentAndGeographicalInformationStatementOfOperationsDetails" roleURI="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureSegmentAndGeographicalInformationStatementOfOperationsDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#DisclosureSegmentAndGeographicalInformationSegmentAssetsDetails" roleURI="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureSegmentAndGeographicalInformationSegmentAssetsDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#DisclosureSegmentAndGeographicalInformationDisaggregationOfRevenueDetails" roleURI="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureSegmentAndGeographicalInformationDisaggregationOfRevenueDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#DisclosureSegmentAndGeographicalInformationGeographicalInformationDetails" roleURI="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureSegmentAndGeographicalInformationGeographicalInformationDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#DisclosureSegmentAndGeographicalInformationConcentrationRiskDetails" roleURI="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureSegmentAndGeographicalInformationConcentrationRiskDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#DisclosureIncomeTaxesValuationAllowanceDetails" roleURI="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureIncomeTaxesValuationAllowanceDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#DisclosureIncomeTaxesUncertainTaxPositionsDetails" roleURI="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureIncomeTaxesUncertainTaxPositionsDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#DisclosureIncomeTaxesIncomeTaxExpenseBenefitDetails" roleURI="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureIncomeTaxesIncomeTaxExpenseBenefitDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#DisclosureEarningsPerShareEpsComputationDetails" roleURI="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureEarningsPerShareEpsComputationDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#DisclosureEarningsPerShareEpsAntidilutiveSecuritiesDetails" roleURI="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureEarningsPerShareEpsAntidilutiveSecuritiesDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/ecd/2024/ecd-2024.xsd#InsiderTradingArrangements" roleURI="http://xbrl.sec.gov/ecd/role/InsiderTradingArrangements" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="http://www.xbrl.org/lrr/role/negated-2009-12-16.xsd#negatedLabel" />
  <link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedTerseLabel" xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="http://www.xbrl.org/lrr/role/negated-2009-12-16.xsd#negatedTerseLabel" />
  <link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedTotalLabel" xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="http://www.xbrl.org/lrr/role/negated-2009-12-16.xsd#negatedTotalLabel" />
  <link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/netLabel" xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="http://www.xbrl.org/lrr/role/net-2009-12-16.xsd#netLabel" />
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.willdan.com/role/DocumentDocumentAndEntityInformation" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="995200090 - Document - Document and Entity Information" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2024/dei-2024.xsd#dei_CoverAbstract" xlink:label="CoverAbstract" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2024/dei-2024.xsd#dei_EntityCentralIndexKey" xlink:label="dei_EntityCentralIndexKey_638581430144321728" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="CoverAbstract" xlink:to="dei_EntityCentralIndexKey_638581430144321728" order="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2024/dei-2024.xsd#dei_DocumentType" xlink:label="dei_DocumentType_638581430144321728" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="CoverAbstract" xlink:to="dei_DocumentType_638581430144321728" order="2" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2024/dei-2024.xsd#dei_DocumentQuarterlyReport" xlink:label="dei_DocumentQuarterlyReport_638581430144321728" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="CoverAbstract" xlink:to="dei_DocumentQuarterlyReport_638581430144321728" order="3" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2024/dei-2024.xsd#dei_DocumentTransitionReport" xlink:label="dei_DocumentTransitionReport_638581430144321728" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="CoverAbstract" xlink:to="dei_DocumentTransitionReport_638581430144321728" order="4" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2024/dei-2024.xsd#dei_DocumentPeriodEndDate" xlink:label="dei_DocumentPeriodEndDate_638581430144321728" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="CoverAbstract" xlink:to="dei_DocumentPeriodEndDate_638581430144321728" order="5" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2024/dei-2024.xsd#dei_EntityFileNumber" xlink:label="dei_EntityFileNumber_638581430144331713" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="CoverAbstract" xlink:to="dei_EntityFileNumber_638581430144331713" order="6" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2024/dei-2024.xsd#dei_EntityRegistrantName" xlink:label="dei_EntityRegistrantName_638581430144331713" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="CoverAbstract" xlink:to="dei_EntityRegistrantName_638581430144331713" order="7" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2024/dei-2024.xsd#dei_EntityIncorporationStateCountryCode" xlink:label="dei_EntityIncorporationStateCountryCode_638581430144331713" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="CoverAbstract" xlink:to="dei_EntityIncorporationStateCountryCode_638581430144331713" order="8" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2024/dei-2024.xsd#dei_EntityTaxIdentificationNumber" xlink:label="dei_EntityTaxIdentificationNumber_638581430144331713" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="CoverAbstract" xlink:to="dei_EntityTaxIdentificationNumber_638581430144331713" order="9" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2024/dei-2024.xsd#dei_EntityAddressAddressLine1" xlink:label="dei_EntityAddressAddressLine1_638581430144331713" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="CoverAbstract" xlink:to="dei_EntityAddressAddressLine1_638581430144331713" order="10" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2024/dei-2024.xsd#dei_EntityAddressAddressLine2" xlink:label="dei_EntityAddressAddressLine2_638581430144331713" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="CoverAbstract" xlink:to="dei_EntityAddressAddressLine2_638581430144331713" order="11" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2024/dei-2024.xsd#dei_EntityAddressCityOrTown" xlink:label="dei_EntityAddressCityOrTown_638581430144331713" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="CoverAbstract" xlink:to="dei_EntityAddressCityOrTown_638581430144331713" order="12" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2024/dei-2024.xsd#dei_EntityAddressPostalZipCode" xlink:label="dei_EntityAddressPostalZipCode_638581430144331713" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="CoverAbstract" xlink:to="dei_EntityAddressPostalZipCode_638581430144331713" order="13" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2024/dei-2024.xsd#dei_EntityAddressStateOrProvince" xlink:label="dei_EntityAddressStateOrProvince_638581430144331713" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="CoverAbstract" xlink:to="dei_EntityAddressStateOrProvince_638581430144331713" order="14" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2024/dei-2024.xsd#dei_CityAreaCode" xlink:label="dei_CityAreaCode_638581430144331713" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="CoverAbstract" xlink:to="dei_CityAreaCode_638581430144331713" order="15" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2024/dei-2024.xsd#dei_LocalPhoneNumber" xlink:label="dei_LocalPhoneNumber_638581430144331713" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="CoverAbstract" xlink:to="dei_LocalPhoneNumber_638581430144331713" order="16" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2024/dei-2024.xsd#dei_Security12bTitle" xlink:label="dei_Security12bTitle_638581430144341708" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="CoverAbstract" xlink:to="dei_Security12bTitle_638581430144341708" order="17" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2024/dei-2024.xsd#dei_TradingSymbol" xlink:label="dei_TradingSymbol_638581430144341708" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="CoverAbstract" xlink:to="dei_TradingSymbol_638581430144341708" order="18" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2024/dei-2024.xsd#dei_SecurityExchangeName" xlink:label="dei_SecurityExchangeName_638581430144341708" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="CoverAbstract" xlink:to="dei_SecurityExchangeName_638581430144341708" order="19" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2024/dei-2024.xsd#dei_EntityCurrentReportingStatus" xlink:label="dei_EntityCurrentReportingStatus_638581430144341708" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="CoverAbstract" xlink:to="dei_EntityCurrentReportingStatus_638581430144341708" order="20" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2024/dei-2024.xsd#dei_EntityInteractiveDataCurrent" xlink:label="dei_EntityInteractiveDataCurrent_638581430144341708" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="CoverAbstract" xlink:to="dei_EntityInteractiveDataCurrent_638581430144341708" order="21" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2024/dei-2024.xsd#dei_EntityFilerCategory" xlink:label="dei_EntityFilerCategory_638581430144341708" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="CoverAbstract" xlink:to="dei_EntityFilerCategory_638581430144341708" order="22" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2024/dei-2024.xsd#dei_EntitySmallBusiness" xlink:label="dei_EntitySmallBusiness_638581430144341708" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="CoverAbstract" xlink:to="dei_EntitySmallBusiness_638581430144341708" order="23" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2024/dei-2024.xsd#dei_EntityEmergingGrowthCompany" xlink:label="dei_EntityEmergingGrowthCompany_638581430144341708" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="CoverAbstract" xlink:to="dei_EntityEmergingGrowthCompany_638581430144341708" order="24" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2024/dei-2024.xsd#dei_EntityShellCompany" xlink:label="dei_EntityShellCompany_638581430144341708" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="CoverAbstract" xlink:to="dei_EntityShellCompany_638581430144341708" order="25" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2024/dei-2024.xsd#dei_EntityCommonStockSharesOutstanding" xlink:label="dei_EntityCommonStockSharesOutstanding_638581430144351708" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="CoverAbstract" xlink:to="dei_EntityCommonStockSharesOutstanding_638581430144351708" order="26" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2024/dei-2024.xsd#dei_CurrentFiscalYearEndDate" xlink:label="dei_CurrentFiscalYearEndDate_638581430144351708" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="CoverAbstract" xlink:to="dei_CurrentFiscalYearEndDate_638581430144351708" order="27" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2024/dei-2024.xsd#dei_DocumentFiscalPeriodFocus" xlink:label="dei_DocumentFiscalPeriodFocus_638581430144351708" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="CoverAbstract" xlink:to="dei_DocumentFiscalPeriodFocus_638581430144351708" order="28" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2024/dei-2024.xsd#dei_DocumentFiscalYearFocus" xlink:label="dei_DocumentFiscalYearFocus_638581430144351708" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="CoverAbstract" xlink:to="dei_DocumentFiscalYearFocus_638581430144351708" order="29" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2024/dei-2024.xsd#dei_AmendmentFlag" xlink:label="dei_AmendmentFlag_638581430144351708" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="CoverAbstract" xlink:to="dei_AmendmentFlag_638581430144351708" order="30" use="optional" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.willdan.com/role/StatementCondensedConsolidatedBalanceSheets" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="995200100 - Statement - CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_StatementOfFinancialPositionAbstract" xlink:label="StatementOfFinancialPositionAbstract" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_AssetsAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_AssetsAbstract_638581430144361709" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="StatementOfFinancialPositionAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_AssetsAbstract_638581430144361709" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_AssetsCurrentAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_AssetsCurrentAbstract_638581430144361709" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsAbstract_638581430144361709" xlink:to="us-gaap_AssetsCurrentAbstract_638581430144361709" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsAtCarryingValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsAtCarryingValue_638581430144361709" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsCurrentAbstract_638581430144361709" xlink:to="us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsAtCarryingValue_638581430144361709" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="8" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_RestrictedCashCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_RestrictedCashCurrent_638581430144361709" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsCurrentAbstract_638581430144361709" xlink:to="us-gaap_RestrictedCashCurrent_638581430144361709" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_AccountsReceivableNetCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccountsReceivableNetCurrent_638581430144361709" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsCurrentAbstract_638581430144361709" xlink:to="us-gaap_AccountsReceivableNetCurrent_638581430144361709" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#wldn_ContractWithCustomerAssetAndConstructionContractorReceivableRetainageAfterAllowanceForCreditLossCurrent" xlink:label="wldn_ContractWithCustomerAssetAndConstructionContractorReceivableRetainageAfterAllowanceForCreditLossCurrent_638581430144361709" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsCurrentAbstract_638581430144361709" xlink:to="wldn_ContractWithCustomerAssetAndConstructionContractorReceivableRetainageAfterAllowanceForCreditLossCurrent_638581430144361709" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_OtherReceivablesNetCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherReceivablesNetCurrent_638581430144361709" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsCurrentAbstract_638581430144361709" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherReceivablesNetCurrent_638581430144361709" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_PrepaidExpenseAndOtherAssetsCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_PrepaidExpenseAndOtherAssetsCurrent_638581430144361709" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsCurrentAbstract_638581430144361709" xlink:to="us-gaap_PrepaidExpenseAndOtherAssetsCurrent_638581430144361709" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_AssetsCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_AssetsCurrent_638581430144361709" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsCurrentAbstract_638581430144361709" xlink:to="us-gaap_AssetsCurrent_638581430144361709" order="7" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentAndFinanceLeaseRightOfUseAssetAfterAccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortization" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentAndFinanceLeaseRightOfUseAssetAfterAccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortization_638581430144361709" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsAbstract_638581430144361709" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentAndFinanceLeaseRightOfUseAssetAfterAccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortization_638581430144361709" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_Goodwill" xlink:label="us-gaap_Goodwill_638581430144371711" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsAbstract_638581430144361709" xlink:to="us-gaap_Goodwill_638581430144371711" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingLeaseRightOfUseAsset" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseRightOfUseAsset_638581430144371711" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsAbstract_638581430144361709" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseRightOfUseAsset_638581430144371711" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsNet" xlink:label="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsNet_638581430144371711" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsAbstract_638581430144361709" xlink:to="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsNet_638581430144371711" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_OtherAssetsNoncurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherAssetsNoncurrent_638581430144371711" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsAbstract_638581430144361709" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherAssetsNoncurrent_638581430144371711" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_DeferredIncomeTaxAssetsNet" xlink:label="us-gaap_DeferredIncomeTaxAssetsNet_638581430144371711" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsAbstract_638581430144361709" xlink:to="us-gaap_DeferredIncomeTaxAssetsNet_638581430144371711" order="7" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_Assets" xlink:label="us-gaap_Assets_638581430144371711" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsAbstract_638581430144361709" xlink:to="us-gaap_Assets_638581430144371711" order="8" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract_638581430144371711" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="StatementOfFinancialPositionAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract_638581430144371711" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrentAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrentAbstract_638581430144371711" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract_638581430144371711" xlink:to="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrentAbstract_638581430144371711" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_AccountsPayableCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccountsPayableCurrent_638581430144371711" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrentAbstract_638581430144371711" xlink:to="us-gaap_AccountsPayableCurrent_638581430144371711" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_AccruedLiabilitiesCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccruedLiabilitiesCurrent_638581430144371711" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrentAbstract_638581430144371711" xlink:to="us-gaap_AccruedLiabilitiesCurrent_638581430144371711" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ContractWithCustomerLiabilityCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_ContractWithCustomerLiabilityCurrent_638581430144381706" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrentAbstract_638581430144371711" xlink:to="us-gaap_ContractWithCustomerLiabilityCurrent_638581430144381706" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_NotesPayableCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_NotesPayableCurrent_638581430144381706" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrentAbstract_638581430144371711" xlink:to="us-gaap_NotesPayableCurrent_638581430144381706" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilityCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilityCurrent_638581430144381706" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrentAbstract_638581430144371711" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilityCurrent_638581430144381706" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiabilityCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiabilityCurrent_638581430144381706" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrentAbstract_638581430144371711" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiabilityCurrent_638581430144381706" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrent_638581430144381706" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrentAbstract_638581430144371711" xlink:to="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrent_638581430144381706" order="7" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_LongTermNotesPayable" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongTermNotesPayable_638581430144381706" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract_638581430144371711" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongTermNotesPayable_638581430144381706" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilityNoncurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilityNoncurrent_638581430144381706" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract_638581430144371711" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilityNoncurrent_638581430144381706" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiabilityNoncurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiabilityNoncurrent_638581430144381706" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract_638581430144371711" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiabilityNoncurrent_638581430144381706" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_OtherLiabilitiesNoncurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherLiabilitiesNoncurrent_638581430144391706" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract_638581430144371711" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherLiabilitiesNoncurrent_638581430144391706" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_Liabilities" xlink:label="us-gaap_Liabilities_638581430144391706" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract_638581430144371711" xlink:to="us-gaap_Liabilities_638581430144391706" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_CommitmentsAndContingencies" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommitmentsAndContingencies_638581430144391706" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract_638581430144371711" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommitmentsAndContingencies_638581430144391706" order="7" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_StockholdersEquityAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityAbstract_638581430144391706" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract_638581430144371711" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityAbstract_638581430144391706" order="8" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_PreferredStockValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_PreferredStockValue_638581430144391706" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityAbstract_638581430144391706" xlink:to="us-gaap_PreferredStockValue_638581430144391706" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_CommonStockValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonStockValue_638581430144391706" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityAbstract_638581430144391706" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonStockValue_638581430144391706" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapitalCommonStock" xlink:label="us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapitalCommonStock_638581430144391706" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityAbstract_638581430144391706" xlink:to="us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapitalCommonStock_638581430144391706" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeLossNetOfTax" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeLossNetOfTax_638581430144401707" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityAbstract_638581430144391706" xlink:to="us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeLossNetOfTax_638581430144401707" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_RetainedEarningsAccumulatedDeficit" xlink:label="us-gaap_RetainedEarningsAccumulatedDeficit_638581430144401707" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityAbstract_638581430144391706" xlink:to="us-gaap_RetainedEarningsAccumulatedDeficit_638581430144401707" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_StockholdersEquity" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockholdersEquity_638581430144401707" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityAbstract_638581430144391706" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockholdersEquity_638581430144401707" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquity" xlink:label="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquity_638581430144401707" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract_638581430144371711" xlink:to="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquity_638581430144401707" order="9" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.willdan.com/role/StatementCondensedConsolidatedBalanceSheetsParenthetical" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="995200105 - Statement - CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (Parenthetical)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_StatementOfFinancialPositionAbstract" xlink:label="StatementOfFinancialPositionAbstract" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_AccountsReceivableNetCurrentAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccountsReceivableNetCurrentAbstract_638581430144401707" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="StatementOfFinancialPositionAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_AccountsReceivableNetCurrentAbstract_638581430144401707" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_AllowanceForDoubtfulAccountsReceivableCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_AllowanceForDoubtfulAccountsReceivableCurrent_638581430144411715" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AccountsReceivableNetCurrentAbstract_638581430144401707" xlink:to="us-gaap_AllowanceForDoubtfulAccountsReceivableCurrent_638581430144411715" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_PreferredStockNumberOfSharesParValueAndOtherDisclosuresAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_PreferredStockNumberOfSharesParValueAndOtherDisclosuresAbstract_638581430144411715" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="StatementOfFinancialPositionAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_PreferredStockNumberOfSharesParValueAndOtherDisclosuresAbstract_638581430144411715" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_PreferredStockParOrStatedValuePerShare" xlink:label="us-gaap_PreferredStockParOrStatedValuePerShare_638581430144411715" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_PreferredStockNumberOfSharesParValueAndOtherDisclosuresAbstract_638581430144411715" xlink:to="us-gaap_PreferredStockParOrStatedValuePerShare_638581430144411715" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_PreferredStockSharesAuthorized" xlink:label="us-gaap_PreferredStockSharesAuthorized_638581430144411715" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_PreferredStockNumberOfSharesParValueAndOtherDisclosuresAbstract_638581430144411715" xlink:to="us-gaap_PreferredStockSharesAuthorized_638581430144411715" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_PreferredStockSharesIssued" xlink:label="us-gaap_PreferredStockSharesIssued_638581430144411715" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_PreferredStockNumberOfSharesParValueAndOtherDisclosuresAbstract_638581430144411715" xlink:to="us-gaap_PreferredStockSharesIssued_638581430144411715" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_PreferredStockSharesOutstanding" xlink:label="us-gaap_PreferredStockSharesOutstanding_638581430144411715" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_PreferredStockNumberOfSharesParValueAndOtherDisclosuresAbstract_638581430144411715" xlink:to="us-gaap_PreferredStockSharesOutstanding_638581430144411715" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_CommonStockNumberOfSharesParValueAndOtherDisclosuresAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonStockNumberOfSharesParValueAndOtherDisclosuresAbstract_638581430144411715" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="StatementOfFinancialPositionAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonStockNumberOfSharesParValueAndOtherDisclosuresAbstract_638581430144411715" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_CommonStockParOrStatedValuePerShare" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonStockParOrStatedValuePerShare_638581430144411715" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_CommonStockNumberOfSharesParValueAndOtherDisclosuresAbstract_638581430144411715" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonStockParOrStatedValuePerShare_638581430144411715" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_CommonStockSharesAuthorized" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonStockSharesAuthorized_638581430144411715" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_CommonStockNumberOfSharesParValueAndOtherDisclosuresAbstract_638581430144411715" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonStockSharesAuthorized_638581430144411715" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_CommonStockSharesIssued" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonStockSharesIssued_638581430144411715" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_CommonStockNumberOfSharesParValueAndOtherDisclosuresAbstract_638581430144411715" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonStockSharesIssued_638581430144411715" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_CommonStockSharesOutstanding" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonStockSharesOutstanding_638581430144411715" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_CommonStockNumberOfSharesParValueAndOtherDisclosuresAbstract_638581430144411715" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonStockSharesOutstanding_638581430144411715" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.willdan.com/role/StatementCondensedConsolidatedStatementsOfComprehensiveIncome" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="995200200 - Statement - CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeStatementAbstract" xlink:label="IncomeStatementAbstract" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerExcludingAssessedTax" xlink:label="us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerExcludingAssessedTax_638581430144421709" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="IncomeStatementAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerExcludingAssessedTax_638581430144421709" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_CostOfRevenueAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_CostOfRevenueAbstract_638581430144421709" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="IncomeStatementAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_CostOfRevenueAbstract_638581430144421709" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_CostDirectLabor" xlink:label="us-gaap_CostDirectLabor_638581430144421709" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_CostOfRevenueAbstract_638581430144421709" xlink:to="us-gaap_CostDirectLabor_638581430144421709" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#wldn_CostOfSubcontractorServicesAndOtherDirectCosts" xlink:label="wldn_CostOfSubcontractorServicesAndOtherDirectCosts_638581430144421709" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_CostOfRevenueAbstract_638581430144421709" xlink:to="wldn_CostOfSubcontractorServicesAndOtherDirectCosts_638581430144421709" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_CostOfRevenue" xlink:label="us-gaap_CostOfRevenue_638581430144421709" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_CostOfRevenueAbstract_638581430144421709" xlink:to="us-gaap_CostOfRevenue_638581430144421709" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_GrossProfit" xlink:label="us-gaap_GrossProfit_638581430144421709" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_CostOfRevenueAbstract_638581430144421709" xlink:to="us-gaap_GrossProfit_638581430144421709" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingExpensesAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingExpensesAbstract_638581430144421709" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="IncomeStatementAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingExpensesAbstract_638581430144421709" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#wldn_LaborAndRelatedExpenseExcludingStockBasedCompensation" xlink:label="wldn_LaborAndRelatedExpenseExcludingStockBasedCompensation_638581430144421709" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OperatingExpensesAbstract_638581430144421709" xlink:to="wldn_LaborAndRelatedExpenseExcludingStockBasedCompensation_638581430144421709" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_OccupancyNet" xlink:label="us-gaap_OccupancyNet_638581430144421709" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OperatingExpensesAbstract_638581430144421709" xlink:to="us-gaap_OccupancyNet_638581430144421709" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensation" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensation_638581430144431709" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OperatingExpensesAbstract_638581430144421709" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensation_638581430144431709" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_DepreciationAndAmortization" xlink:label="us-gaap_DepreciationAndAmortization_638581430144431709" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OperatingExpensesAbstract_638581430144421709" xlink:to="us-gaap_DepreciationAndAmortization_638581430144431709" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_OtherSellingGeneralAndAdministrativeExpense" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherSellingGeneralAndAdministrativeExpense_638581430144431709" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OperatingExpensesAbstract_638581430144421709" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherSellingGeneralAndAdministrativeExpense_638581430144431709" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingExpenses" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingExpenses_638581430144431709" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OperatingExpensesAbstract_638581430144421709" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingExpenses_638581430144431709" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLoss" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLoss_638581430144431709" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="IncomeStatementAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLoss_638581430144431709" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_NonoperatingIncomeExpenseAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_NonoperatingIncomeExpenseAbstract_638581430144431709" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="IncomeStatementAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_NonoperatingIncomeExpenseAbstract_638581430144431709" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_InterestIncomeExpenseNonoperatingNet" xlink:label="us-gaap_InterestIncomeExpenseNonoperatingNet_638581430144431709" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_NonoperatingIncomeExpenseAbstract_638581430144431709" xlink:to="us-gaap_InterestIncomeExpenseNonoperatingNet_638581430144431709" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_OtherNonoperatingIncomeExpense" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherNonoperatingIncomeExpense_638581430144431709" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_NonoperatingIncomeExpenseAbstract_638581430144431709" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherNonoperatingIncomeExpense_638581430144431709" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_NonoperatingIncomeExpense" xlink:label="us-gaap_NonoperatingIncomeExpense_638581430144431709" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_NonoperatingIncomeExpenseAbstract_638581430144431709" xlink:to="us-gaap_NonoperatingIncomeExpense_638581430144431709" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsBeforeIncomeTaxesExtraordinaryItemsNoncontrollingInterest" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsBeforeIncomeTaxesExtraordinaryItemsNoncontrollingInterest_638581430144441710" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="IncomeStatementAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsBeforeIncomeTaxesExtraordinaryItemsNoncontrollingInterest_638581430144441710" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeTaxExpenseBenefit" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeTaxExpenseBenefit_638581430144441710" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="IncomeStatementAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeTaxExpenseBenefit_638581430144441710" order="7" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss_638581430144441710" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="IncomeStatementAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss_638581430144441710" order="8" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ComprehensiveIncomeNetOfTaxAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_ComprehensiveIncomeNetOfTaxAbstract_638581430144441710" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="IncomeStatementAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_ComprehensiveIncomeNetOfTaxAbstract_638581430144441710" order="9" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossCashFlowHedgeGainLossAfterReclassificationAndTax" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossCashFlowHedgeGainLossAfterReclassificationAndTax_638581430144441710" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ComprehensiveIncomeNetOfTaxAbstract_638581430144441710" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossCashFlowHedgeGainLossAfterReclassificationAndTax_638581430144441710" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ComprehensiveIncomeNetOfTax" xlink:label="us-gaap_ComprehensiveIncomeNetOfTax_638581430144441710" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ComprehensiveIncomeNetOfTaxAbstract_638581430144441710" xlink:to="us-gaap_ComprehensiveIncomeNetOfTax_638581430144441710" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_EarningsPerShareDilutedAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareDilutedAbstract_638581430144441710" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="IncomeStatementAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareDilutedAbstract_638581430144441710" order="10" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasic" xlink:label="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasic_638581430144441710" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareDilutedAbstract_638581430144441710" xlink:to="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasic_638581430144441710" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_EarningsPerShareDiluted" xlink:label="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareDiluted_638581430144451707" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareDilutedAbstract_638581430144441710" xlink:to="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareDiluted_638581430144451707" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfSharesOutstandingAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfSharesOutstandingAbstract_638581430144451707" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="IncomeStatementAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfSharesOutstandingAbstract_638581430144451707" order="11" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfSharesOutstandingBasic" xlink:label="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfSharesOutstandingBasic_638581430144451707" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfSharesOutstandingAbstract_638581430144451707" xlink:to="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfSharesOutstandingBasic_638581430144451707" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfDilutedSharesOutstanding" xlink:label="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfDilutedSharesOutstanding_638581430144451707" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfSharesOutstandingAbstract_638581430144451707" xlink:to="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfDilutedSharesOutstanding_638581430144451707" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="2" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.willdan.com/role/StatementCondensedConsolidatedStatementsOfStockholdersEquity" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="995200300 - Statement - CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_StatementOfStockholdersEquityAbstract" xlink:label="StatementOfStockholdersEquityAbstract" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable_638581430144451707" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="StatementOfStockholdersEquityAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable_638581430144451707" order="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis_638581430144451707" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable_638581430144451707" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis_638581430144451707" order="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ParentMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_ParentMember_638581430144461712" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis_638581430144451707" xlink:to="us-gaap_ParentMember_638581430144461712" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_CommonStockMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonStockMember_638581430144461712" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis_638581430144451707" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonStockMember_638581430144461712" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapitalMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapitalMember_638581430144461712" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis_638581430144451707" xlink:to="us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapitalMember_638581430144461712" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeMember_638581430144461712" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis_638581430144451707" xlink:to="us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeMember_638581430144461712" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_RetainedEarningsMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_RetainedEarningsMember_638581430144461712" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis_638581430144451707" xlink:to="us-gaap_RetainedEarningsMember_638581430144461712" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain_638581430144461712" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis_638581430144451707" xlink:to="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain_638581430144461712" order="6" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_638581430144461712" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable_638581430144451707" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_638581430144461712" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInStockholdersEquityRollForward" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInStockholdersEquityRollForward_638581430144461712" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_638581430144461712" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInStockholdersEquityRollForward_638581430144461712" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_StockholdersEquityIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest_638581430144461712" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInStockholdersEquityRollForward_638581430144461712" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest_638581430144461712" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/periodStartLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_CommonStockSharesIssued" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonStockSharesIssued_638581430144461712" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInStockholdersEquityRollForward_638581430144461712" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonStockSharesIssued_638581430144461712" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/periodStartLabel" priority="5" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueEmployeeStockPurchasePlan" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueEmployeeStockPurchasePlan_638581430144461712" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInStockholdersEquityRollForward_638581430144461712" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueEmployeeStockPurchasePlan_638581430144461712" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesEmployeeStockPurchasePlans" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesEmployeeStockPurchasePlans_638581430144471709" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueEmployeeStockPurchasePlan_638581430144461712" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesEmployeeStockPurchasePlans_638581430144471709" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueStockOptionsExercised" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueStockOptionsExercised_638581430144471709" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInStockholdersEquityRollForward_638581430144461712" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueStockOptionsExercised_638581430144471709" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesStockOptionsExercised" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesStockOptionsExercised_638581430144471709" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueStockOptionsExercised_638581430144471709" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesStockOptionsExercised_638581430144471709" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_AdjustmentsRelatedToTaxWithholdingForShareBasedCompensation" xlink:label="us-gaap_AdjustmentsRelatedToTaxWithholdingForShareBasedCompensation_638581430144471709" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInStockholdersEquityRollForward_638581430144461712" xlink:to="us-gaap_AdjustmentsRelatedToTaxWithholdingForShareBasedCompensation_638581430144471709" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="3" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_SharesPaidForTaxWithholdingForShareBasedCompensation" xlink:label="us-gaap_SharesPaidForTaxWithholdingForShareBasedCompensation_638581430144471709" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AdjustmentsRelatedToTaxWithholdingForShareBasedCompensation_638581430144471709" xlink:to="us-gaap_SharesPaidForTaxWithholdingForShareBasedCompensation_638581430144471709" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="3" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueRestrictedStockAwardGross" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueRestrictedStockAwardGross_638581430144471709" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInStockholdersEquityRollForward_638581430144461712" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueRestrictedStockAwardGross_638581430144471709" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="9" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesRestrictedStockAwardGross" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesRestrictedStockAwardGross_638581430144471709" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueRestrictedStockAwardGross_638581430144471709" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesRestrictedStockAwardGross_638581430144471709" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="5" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_AdjustmentsToAdditionalPaidInCapitalSharebasedCompensationRequisiteServicePeriodRecognitionValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToAdditionalPaidInCapitalSharebasedCompensationRequisiteServicePeriodRecognitionValue_638581430144471709" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInStockholdersEquityRollForward_638581430144461712" xlink:to="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToAdditionalPaidInCapitalSharebasedCompensationRequisiteServicePeriodRecognitionValue_638581430144471709" order="7" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss_638581430144471709" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInStockholdersEquityRollForward_638581430144461712" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss_638581430144471709" order="8" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossNetOfTax" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossNetOfTax_638581430144481709" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInStockholdersEquityRollForward_638581430144461712" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossNetOfTax_638581430144481709" order="9" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_StockholdersEquityIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest_638581430144481709" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInStockholdersEquityRollForward_638581430144461712" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest_638581430144481709" order="10" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/periodEndLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_CommonStockSharesIssued" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonStockSharesIssued_638581430144481709" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInStockholdersEquityRollForward_638581430144461712" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonStockSharesIssued_638581430144481709" order="11" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/periodEndLabel" priority="5" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.willdan.com/role/StatementCondensedConsolidatedStatementsOfCashFlows" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="995200400 - Statement - CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_StatementOfCashFlowsAbstract" xlink:label="StatementOfCashFlowsAbstract" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract_638581430144481709" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="StatementOfCashFlowsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract_638581430144481709" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ProfitLoss" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProfitLoss_638581430144481709" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract_638581430144481709" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProfitLoss_638581430144481709" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="6" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract_638581430144481709" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract_638581430144481709" xlink:to="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract_638581430144481709" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_DepreciationDepletionAndAmortization" xlink:label="us-gaap_DepreciationDepletionAndAmortization_638581430144491715" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract_638581430144481709" xlink:to="us-gaap_DepreciationDepletionAndAmortization_638581430144491715" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_OtherNoncashIncomeExpense" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherNoncashIncomeExpense_638581430144491715" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract_638581430144481709" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherNoncashIncomeExpense_638581430144491715" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_DeferredIncomeTaxExpenseBenefit" xlink:label="us-gaap_DeferredIncomeTaxExpenseBenefit_638581430144491715" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract_638581430144481709" xlink:to="us-gaap_DeferredIncomeTaxExpenseBenefit_638581430144491715" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_GainLossOnSaleOfPropertyPlantEquipment" xlink:label="us-gaap_GainLossOnSaleOfPropertyPlantEquipment_638581430144491715" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract_638581430144481709" xlink:to="us-gaap_GainLossOnSaleOfPropertyPlantEquipment_638581430144491715" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#wldn_ProvisionForDoubtfulAccountsCashFlowImpact" xlink:label="wldn_ProvisionForDoubtfulAccountsCashFlowImpact_638581430144491715" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract_638581430144481709" xlink:to="wldn_ProvisionForDoubtfulAccountsCashFlowImpact_638581430144491715" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensation" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensation_638581430144491715" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract_638581430144481709" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensation_638581430144491715" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOperatingCapitalAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOperatingCapitalAbstract_638581430144491715" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract_638581430144481709" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOperatingCapitalAbstract_638581430144491715" order="7" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInAccountsReceivable" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInAccountsReceivable_638581430144491715" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOperatingCapitalAbstract_638581430144491715" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInAccountsReceivable_638581430144491715" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInContractWithCustomerAsset" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInContractWithCustomerAsset_638581430144491715" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOperatingCapitalAbstract_638581430144491715" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInContractWithCustomerAsset_638581430144491715" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOtherReceivables" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOtherReceivables_638581430144491715" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOperatingCapitalAbstract_638581430144491715" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOtherReceivables_638581430144491715" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInPrepaidDeferredExpenseAndOtherAssets" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInPrepaidDeferredExpenseAndOtherAssets_638581430144491715" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOperatingCapitalAbstract_638581430144491715" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInPrepaidDeferredExpenseAndOtherAssets_638581430144491715" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOtherOperatingAssets" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOtherOperatingAssets_638581430144501710" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOperatingCapitalAbstract_638581430144491715" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOtherOperatingAssets_638581430144501710" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInAccountsPayable" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInAccountsPayable_638581430144501710" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOperatingCapitalAbstract_638581430144491715" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInAccountsPayable_638581430144501710" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInAccruedLiabilities" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInAccruedLiabilities_638581430144501710" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOperatingCapitalAbstract_638581430144491715" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInAccruedLiabilities_638581430144501710" order="7" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInContractWithCustomerLiability" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInContractWithCustomerLiability_638581430144501710" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOperatingCapitalAbstract_638581430144491715" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInContractWithCustomerLiability_638581430144501710" order="8" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#wldn_IncreaseDecreaseInRightOfUseAssets" xlink:label="wldn_IncreaseDecreaseInRightOfUseAssets_638581430144501710" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOperatingCapitalAbstract_638581430144491715" xlink:to="wldn_IncreaseDecreaseInRightOfUseAssets_638581430144501710" order="9" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="5" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivities" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivities_638581430144501710" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract_638581430144481709" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivities_638581430144501710" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivitiesAbstract_638581430144501710" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="StatementOfCashFlowsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivitiesAbstract_638581430144501710" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquirePropertyPlantAndEquipment" xlink:label="us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquirePropertyPlantAndEquipment_638581430144501710" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivitiesAbstract_638581430144501710" xlink:to="us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquirePropertyPlantAndEquipment_638581430144501710" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ProceedsFromSaleOfPropertyPlantAndEquipment" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProceedsFromSaleOfPropertyPlantAndEquipment_638581430144511709" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivitiesAbstract_638581430144501710" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProceedsFromSaleOfPropertyPlantAndEquipment_638581430144511709" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivities" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivities_638581430144511709" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivitiesAbstract_638581430144501710" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivities_638581430144511709" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesAbstract_638581430144511709" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="StatementOfCashFlowsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesAbstract_638581430144511709" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#wldn_BusinessAcquisitionContingentConsiderationCashPayment" xlink:label="wldn_BusinessAcquisitionContingentConsiderationCashPayment_638581430144511709" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesAbstract_638581430144511709" xlink:to="wldn_BusinessAcquisitionContingentConsiderationCashPayment_638581430144511709" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="5" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#wldn_PaymentsForCashDepositsHeldInTrustForEnergyIncentiveRebatePaymentsRestrictedCashFinancingActivities" xlink:label="wldn_PaymentsForCashDepositsHeldInTrustForEnergyIncentiveRebatePaymentsRestrictedCashFinancingActivities_638581430144511709" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesAbstract_638581430144511709" xlink:to="wldn_PaymentsForCashDepositsHeldInTrustForEnergyIncentiveRebatePaymentsRestrictedCashFinancingActivities_638581430144511709" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_RepaymentsOfNotesPayable" xlink:label="us-gaap_RepaymentsOfNotesPayable_638581430144511709" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesAbstract_638581430144511709" xlink:to="us-gaap_RepaymentsOfNotesPayable_638581430144511709" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ProceedsFromLinesOfCredit" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProceedsFromLinesOfCredit_638581430144511709" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesAbstract_638581430144511709" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProceedsFromLinesOfCredit_638581430144511709" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_RepaymentsOfLinesOfCredit" xlink:label="us-gaap_RepaymentsOfLinesOfCredit_638581430144511709" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesAbstract_638581430144511709" xlink:to="us-gaap_RepaymentsOfLinesOfCredit_638581430144511709" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_FinanceLeasePrincipalPayments" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinanceLeasePrincipalPayments_638581430144521710" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesAbstract_638581430144511709" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinanceLeasePrincipalPayments_638581430144521710" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ProceedsFromStockOptionsExercised" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProceedsFromStockOptionsExercised_638581430144521710" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesAbstract_638581430144511709" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProceedsFromStockOptionsExercised_638581430144521710" order="7" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ProceedsFromStockPlans" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProceedsFromStockPlans_638581430144521710" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesAbstract_638581430144511709" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProceedsFromStockPlans_638581430144521710" order="8" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_PaymentsForRepurchaseOfOtherEquity" xlink:label="us-gaap_PaymentsForRepurchaseOfOtherEquity_638581430144521710" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesAbstract_638581430144511709" xlink:to="us-gaap_PaymentsForRepurchaseOfOtherEquity_638581430144521710" order="9" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivities" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivities_638581430144641729" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesAbstract_638581430144511709" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivities_638581430144641729" order="10" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_CashCashEquivalentsRestrictedCashAndRestrictedCashEquivalentsPeriodIncreaseDecreaseIncludingExchangeRateEffect" xlink:label="us-gaap_CashCashEquivalentsRestrictedCashAndRestrictedCashEquivalentsPeriodIncreaseDecreaseIncludingExchangeRateEffect_638581430144651741" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="StatementOfCashFlowsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_CashCashEquivalentsRestrictedCashAndRestrictedCashEquivalentsPeriodIncreaseDecreaseIncludingExchangeRateEffect_638581430144651741" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_CashCashEquivalentsRestrictedCashAndRestrictedCashEquivalents" xlink:label="us-gaap_CashCashEquivalentsRestrictedCashAndRestrictedCashEquivalents_638581430144651741" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="StatementOfCashFlowsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_CashCashEquivalentsRestrictedCashAndRestrictedCashEquivalents_638581430144651741" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/periodStartLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_CashCashEquivalentsRestrictedCashAndRestrictedCashEquivalents" xlink:label="us-gaap_CashCashEquivalentsRestrictedCashAndRestrictedCashEquivalents_6385814301446517411" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="StatementOfCashFlowsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_CashCashEquivalentsRestrictedCashAndRestrictedCashEquivalents_6385814301446517411" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/periodEndLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_SupplementalCashFlowInformationAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_SupplementalCashFlowInformationAbstract_638581430144651741" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="StatementOfCashFlowsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_SupplementalCashFlowInformationAbstract_638581430144651741" order="7" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_InterestPaidNet" xlink:label="us-gaap_InterestPaidNet_638581430144651741" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SupplementalCashFlowInformationAbstract_638581430144651741" xlink:to="us-gaap_InterestPaidNet_638581430144651741" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeTaxesPaidNet" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeTaxesPaidNet_638581430144651741" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SupplementalCashFlowInformationAbstract_638581430144651741" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeTaxesPaidNet_638581430144651741" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_CashFlowNoncashInvestingAndFinancingActivitiesDisclosureAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_CashFlowNoncashInvestingAndFinancingActivitiesDisclosureAbstract_638581430144651741" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="StatementOfCashFlowsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_CashFlowNoncashInvestingAndFinancingActivitiesDisclosureAbstract_638581430144651741" order="8" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_CapitalLeaseObligationsIncurred" xlink:label="us-gaap_CapitalLeaseObligationsIncurred_638581430144661711" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_CashFlowNoncashInvestingAndFinancingActivitiesDisclosureAbstract_638581430144651741" xlink:to="us-gaap_CapitalLeaseObligationsIncurred_638581430144661711" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureOrganizationAndOperationsOfCompany" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="995210101 - Disclosure - ORGANIZATION AND OPERATIONS OF THE COMPANY" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_OrganizationConsolidationAndPresentationOfFinancialStatementsAbstract" xlink:label="OrganizationConsolidationAndPresentationOfFinancialStatementsAbstract" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_OrganizationConsolidationAndPresentationOfFinancialStatementsDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_OrganizationConsolidationAndPresentationOfFinancialStatementsDisclosureTextBlock_638581430144661711" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="OrganizationConsolidationAndPresentationOfFinancialStatementsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_OrganizationConsolidationAndPresentationOfFinancialStatementsDisclosureTextBlock_638581430144661711" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureRecentAccountingPronouncements" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="995210201 - Disclosure - RECENT ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_NewAccountingPronouncementsAndChangesInAccountingPrinciplesAbstract" xlink:label="NewAccountingPronouncementsAndChangesInAccountingPrinciplesAbstract" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_NewAccountingPronouncementsAndChangesInAccountingPrinciplesTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_NewAccountingPronouncementsAndChangesInAccountingPrinciplesTextBlock_638581430144661711" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="NewAccountingPronouncementsAndChangesInAccountingPrinciplesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_NewAccountingPronouncementsAndChangesInAccountingPrinciplesTextBlock_638581430144661711" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureRevenues" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="995210301 - Disclosure - REVENUES" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerAbstract" xlink:label="RevenueFromContractWithCustomerAbstract" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerTextBlock_638581430144671712" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="RevenueFromContractWithCustomerAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerTextBlock_638581430144671712" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureSupplementalFinancialStatementData" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="995210401 - Disclosure - SUPPLEMENTAL FINANCIAL STATEMENT DATA" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_BalanceSheetRelatedDisclosuresAbstract" xlink:label="BalanceSheetRelatedDisclosuresAbstract" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_SupplementalBalanceSheetDisclosuresTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_SupplementalBalanceSheetDisclosuresTextBlock_638581430144671712" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="BalanceSheetRelatedDisclosuresAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_SupplementalBalanceSheetDisclosuresTextBlock_638581430144671712" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureDerivativeFinancialInstruments" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="995210501 - Disclosure - DERIVATIVE FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsAndHedgingActivitiesDisclosureAbstract" xlink:label="DerivativeInstrumentsAndHedgingActivitiesDisclosureAbstract" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsAndHedgingActivitiesDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsAndHedgingActivitiesDisclosureTextBlock_638581430144671712" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="DerivativeInstrumentsAndHedgingActivitiesDisclosureAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsAndHedgingActivitiesDisclosureTextBlock_638581430144671712" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureDebtObligations" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="995210601 - Disclosure - DEBT OBLIGATIONS" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_DebtDisclosureAbstract" xlink:label="DebtDisclosureAbstract" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_DebtDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtDisclosureTextBlock_638581430144671712" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="DebtDisclosureAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtDisclosureTextBlock_638581430144671712" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureLeases" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="995210701 - Disclosure - LEASES" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_LeasesAbstract" xlink:label="LeasesAbstract" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#wldn_LesseeOperatingAndFinanceLeasesTextBlock" xlink:label="wldn_LesseeOperatingAndFinanceLeasesTextBlock_638581430144671712" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="LeasesAbstract" xlink:to="wldn_LesseeOperatingAndFinanceLeasesTextBlock_638581430144671712" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureCommitmentsAndVariableInterestEntities" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="995210801 - Disclosure - COMMITMENTS AND VARIABLE INTEREST ENTITIES" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#wldn_CommitmentsDisclosureAbstract" xlink:label="CommitmentsDisclosureAbstract" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_CommitmentsDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommitmentsDisclosureTextBlock_638581430144681710" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="CommitmentsDisclosureAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommitmentsDisclosureTextBlock_638581430144681710" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureSegmentAndGeographicalInformation" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="995210901 - Disclosure - SEGMENT AND GEOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_SegmentReportingAbstract" xlink:label="SegmentReportingAbstract" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_SegmentReportingDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_SegmentReportingDisclosureTextBlock_638581430144681710" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="SegmentReportingAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_SegmentReportingDisclosureTextBlock_638581430144681710" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureIncomeTaxes" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="995211001 - Disclosure - INCOME TAXES" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeTaxDisclosureAbstract" xlink:label="IncomeTaxDisclosureAbstract" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeTaxDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeTaxDisclosureTextBlock_638581430144681710" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="IncomeTaxDisclosureAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeTaxDisclosureTextBlock_638581430144681710" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureEarningsPerShareEps" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="995211101 - Disclosure - EARNINGS PER SHARE (EPS)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_EarningsPerShareAbstract" xlink:label="EarningsPerShareAbstract" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_EarningsPerShareTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareTextBlock_638581430144681710" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="EarningsPerShareAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareTextBlock_638581430144681710" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureContingencies" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="995211201 - Disclosure - CONTINGENCIES" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_LossContingencyAbstract" xlink:label="LossContingencyAbstract" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_LegalMattersAndContingenciesTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_LegalMattersAndContingenciesTextBlock_638581430144681710" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="LossContingencyAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_LegalMattersAndContingenciesTextBlock_638581430144681710" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureSubsequentEvents" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="995211301 - Disclosure - SUBSEQUENT EVENTS" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_SubsequentEventsAbstract" xlink:label="SubsequentEventsAbstract" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_SubsequentEventsTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_SubsequentEventsTextBlock_638581430144691713" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="SubsequentEventsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_SubsequentEventsTextBlock_638581430144691713" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureOrganizationAndOperationsOfCompanyPolicies" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99920102 - Disclosure - ORGANIZATION AND OPERATIONS OF THE COMPANY (Policies)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_OrganizationConsolidationAndPresentationOfFinancialStatementsAbstract" xlink:label="OrganizationConsolidationAndPresentationOfFinancialStatementsAbstract" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_BasisOfAccountingPolicyPolicyTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_BasisOfAccountingPolicyPolicyTextBlock_638581430144691713" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="OrganizationConsolidationAndPresentationOfFinancialStatementsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_BasisOfAccountingPolicyPolicyTextBlock_638581430144691713" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_FiscalPeriod" xlink:label="us-gaap_FiscalPeriod_638581430144691713" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="OrganizationConsolidationAndPresentationOfFinancialStatementsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_FiscalPeriod_638581430144691713" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_UseOfEstimates" xlink:label="us-gaap_UseOfEstimates_638581430144691713" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="OrganizationConsolidationAndPresentationOfFinancialStatementsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_UseOfEstimates_638581430144691713" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_NewAccountingPronouncementsPolicyPolicyTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_NewAccountingPronouncementsPolicyPolicyTextBlock_638581430144691713" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="OrganizationConsolidationAndPresentationOfFinancialStatementsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_NewAccountingPronouncementsPolicyPolicyTextBlock_638581430144691713" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureRevenuesTables" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99930303 - Disclosure - REVENUES (Tables)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerAbstract" xlink:label="RevenueFromContractWithCustomerAbstract" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#wldn_ScheduleOfByTypeAndReportableSegmentTableTextBlock" xlink:label="wldn_ScheduleOfByTypeAndReportableSegmentTableTextBlock_638581430144691713" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="RevenueFromContractWithCustomerAbstract" xlink:to="wldn_ScheduleOfByTypeAndReportableSegmentTableTextBlock_638581430144691713" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureSupplementalFinancialStatementDataTables" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99930403 - Disclosure - SUPPLEMENTAL FINANCIAL STATEMENT DATA (Tables)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_BalanceSheetRelatedDisclosuresAbstract" xlink:label="BalanceSheetRelatedDisclosuresAbstract" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfCashFlowSupplementalDisclosuresTableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfCashFlowSupplementalDisclosuresTableTextBlock_638581430144701711" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="BalanceSheetRelatedDisclosuresAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfCashFlowSupplementalDisclosuresTableTextBlock_638581430144701711" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTextBlock_638581430144701711" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="BalanceSheetRelatedDisclosuresAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTextBlock_638581430144701711" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfAccruedLiabilitiesTableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfAccruedLiabilitiesTableTextBlock_638581430144701711" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="BalanceSheetRelatedDisclosuresAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfAccruedLiabilitiesTableTextBlock_638581430144701711" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfGoodwillTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfGoodwillTextBlock_638581430144701711" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="BalanceSheetRelatedDisclosuresAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfGoodwillTextBlock_638581430144701711" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfFiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsTableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfFiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsTableTextBlock_638581430144701711" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="BalanceSheetRelatedDisclosuresAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfFiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsTableTextBlock_638581430144701711" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureDerivativeFinancialInstrumentsTables" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99930503 - Disclosure - DERIVATIVE FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS (Tables)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsAndHedgingActivitiesDisclosureAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsAndHedgingActivitiesDisclosureAbstract_3" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfCashFlowHedgingInstrumentsStatementsOfFinancialPerformanceAndFinancialPositionLocationTableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfCashFlowHedgingInstrumentsStatementsOfFinancialPerformanceAndFinancialPositionLocationTableTextBlock_638581430144701711" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsAndHedgingActivitiesDisclosureAbstract_3" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfCashFlowHedgingInstrumentsStatementsOfFinancialPerformanceAndFinancialPositionLocationTableTextBlock_638581430144701711" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfAccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeLossTableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfAccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeLossTableTextBlock_638581430144701711" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsAndHedgingActivitiesDisclosureAbstract_3" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfAccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeLossTableTextBlock_638581430144701711" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureDebtObligationsTables" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99930603 - Disclosure - DEBT OBLIGATIONS (Tables)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_DebtDisclosureAbstract" xlink:label="DebtDisclosureAbstract" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfDebtTableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfDebtTableTextBlock_638581430144711712" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="DebtDisclosureAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfDebtTableTextBlock_638581430144711712" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureLeasesTables" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99930703 - Disclosure - LEASES (Tables)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_LeasesAbstract" xlink:label="LeasesAbstract" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_LeaseCostTableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_LeaseCostTableTextBlock_638581430144711712" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="LeasesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_LeaseCostTableTextBlock_638581430144711712" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#wldn_LesseeBalanceSheetAndOtherInformationOfLeasesTableTextBlock" xlink:label="wldn_LesseeBalanceSheetAndOtherInformationOfLeasesTableTextBlock_638581430144711712" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="LeasesAbstract" xlink:to="wldn_LesseeBalanceSheetAndOtherInformationOfLeasesTableTextBlock_638581430144711712" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#wldn_LesseeOtherInformationAndSupplementalCashFlowInformationOfLeasesTableTextBlock" xlink:label="wldn_LesseeOtherInformationAndSupplementalCashFlowInformationOfLeasesTableTextBlock_638581430144711712" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="LeasesAbstract" xlink:to="wldn_LesseeOtherInformationAndSupplementalCashFlowInformationOfLeasesTableTextBlock_638581430144711712" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityMaturityTableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityMaturityTableTextBlock_638581430144711712" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="LeasesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityMaturityTableTextBlock_638581430144711712" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilityMaturityTableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilityMaturityTableTextBlock_638581430144711712" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="LeasesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilityMaturityTableTextBlock_638581430144711712" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureSegmentAndGeographicalInformationTables" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99930903 - Disclosure - SEGMENT AND GEOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION (Tables)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_SegmentReportingAbstract" xlink:label="SegmentReportingAbstract" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfSegmentReportingInformationBySegmentTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfSegmentReportingInformationBySegmentTextBlock_638581430144711712" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="SegmentReportingAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfSegmentReportingInformationBySegmentTextBlock_638581430144711712" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTableTextBlock_638581430144711712" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="SegmentReportingAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTableTextBlock_638581430144711712" order="2" use="optional" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureEarningsPerShareEpsTables" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99931103 - Disclosure - EARNINGS PER SHARE (EPS) (Tables)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_EarningsPerShareAbstract" xlink:label="EarningsPerShareAbstract" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfEarningsPerShareBasicAndDilutedTableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfEarningsPerShareBasicAndDilutedTableTextBlock_638581430144721713" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="EarningsPerShareAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfEarningsPerShareBasicAndDilutedTableTextBlock_638581430144721713" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureOrganizationAndOperationsOfCompanySegmentInformationDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99940101 - Disclosure - ORGANIZATION AND OPERATIONS OF THE COMPANY - Segment Information (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_OrganizationConsolidationAndPresentationOfFinancialStatementsAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_OrganizationConsolidationAndPresentationOfFinancialStatementsAbstract" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_SegmentReportingDisclosureOfEntitysReportableSegmentsAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_SegmentReportingDisclosureOfEntitysReportableSegmentsAbstract_638581430144721713" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OrganizationConsolidationAndPresentationOfFinancialStatementsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_SegmentReportingDisclosureOfEntitysReportableSegmentsAbstract_638581430144721713" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_NumberOfReportableSegments" xlink:label="us-gaap_NumberOfReportableSegments_638581430144721713" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentReportingDisclosureOfEntitysReportableSegmentsAbstract_638581430144721713" xlink:to="us-gaap_NumberOfReportableSegments_638581430144721713" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureOrganizationAndOperationsOfCompanyFiscalYearsDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99940102 - Disclosure - ORGANIZATION AND OPERATIONS OF THE COMPANY - Fiscal Years (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_OrganizationConsolidationAndPresentationOfFinancialStatementsAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_OrganizationConsolidationAndPresentationOfFinancialStatementsAbstract_1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2024/dei-2024.xsd#dei_EntitiesTable" xlink:label="dei_EntitiesTable_638581430144721713" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OrganizationConsolidationAndPresentationOfFinancialStatementsAbstract_1" xlink:to="dei_EntitiesTable_638581430144721713" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2024/elts/srt-2024.xsd#srt_RangeAxis" xlink:label="srt_RangeAxis_638581430144721713" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="dei_EntitiesTable_638581430144721713" xlink:to="srt_RangeAxis_638581430144721713" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2024/elts/srt-2024.xsd#srt_RangeMember" xlink:label="srt_RangeMember_638581430144721713" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_RangeAxis_638581430144721713" xlink:to="srt_RangeMember_638581430144721713" order="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2024/elts/srt-2024.xsd#srt_MinimumMember" xlink:label="srt_MinimumMember_638581430144721713" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_RangeMember_638581430144721713" xlink:to="srt_MinimumMember_638581430144721713" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2024/elts/srt-2024.xsd#srt_MaximumMember" xlink:label="srt_MaximumMember_638581430144731709" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_RangeMember_638581430144721713" xlink:to="srt_MaximumMember_638581430144731709" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2024/dei-2024.xsd#dei_EntityInformationLineItems" xlink:label="dei_EntityInformationLineItems_638581430144731709" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="dei_EntitiesTable_638581430144721713" xlink:to="dei_EntityInformationLineItems_638581430144731709" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_FiscalPeriodDuration" xlink:label="us-gaap_FiscalPeriodDuration_638581430144731709" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="dei_EntityInformationLineItems_638581430144731709" xlink:to="us-gaap_FiscalPeriodDuration_638581430144731709" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureRecentAccountingPronouncementsDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99940201 - Disclosure - RECENT ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_NewAccountingPronouncementsAndChangesInAccountingPrinciplesAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_NewAccountingPronouncementsAndChangesInAccountingPrinciplesAbstract" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_NewAccountingPronouncementsOrChangeInAccountingPrincipleTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_NewAccountingPronouncementsOrChangeInAccountingPrincipleTable_638581430144731709" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_NewAccountingPronouncementsAndChangesInAccountingPrinciplesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_NewAccountingPronouncementsOrChangeInAccountingPrincipleTable_638581430144731709" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_AdjustmentsForNewAccountingPronouncementsAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_AdjustmentsForNewAccountingPronouncementsAxis_638581430144731709" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_NewAccountingPronouncementsOrChangeInAccountingPrincipleTable_638581430144731709" xlink:to="us-gaap_AdjustmentsForNewAccountingPronouncementsAxis_638581430144731709" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_TypeOfAdoptionMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_TypeOfAdoptionMember_638581430144731709" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AdjustmentsForNewAccountingPronouncementsAxis_638581430144731709" xlink:to="us-gaap_TypeOfAdoptionMember_638581430144731709" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_AccountingStandardsUpdate202309Member" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccountingStandardsUpdate202309Member_638581430144731709" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_TypeOfAdoptionMember_638581430144731709" xlink:to="us-gaap_AccountingStandardsUpdate202309Member_638581430144731709" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_AccountingStandardsUpdate202307Member" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccountingStandardsUpdate202307Member_638581430144731709" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_TypeOfAdoptionMember_638581430144731709" xlink:to="us-gaap_AccountingStandardsUpdate202307Member_638581430144731709" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_AccountingStandardsUpdate202306Member" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccountingStandardsUpdate202306Member_638581430144731709" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_TypeOfAdoptionMember_638581430144731709" xlink:to="us-gaap_AccountingStandardsUpdate202306Member_638581430144731709" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_NewAccountingPronouncementsOrChangeInAccountingPrincipleLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_NewAccountingPronouncementsOrChangeInAccountingPrincipleLineItems_638581430144731709" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_NewAccountingPronouncementsOrChangeInAccountingPrincipleTable_638581430144731709" xlink:to="us-gaap_NewAccountingPronouncementsOrChangeInAccountingPrincipleLineItems_638581430144731709" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ChangeInAccountingPrincipleAccountingStandardsUpdateAdopted" xlink:label="us-gaap_ChangeInAccountingPrincipleAccountingStandardsUpdateAdopted_638581430144741710" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_NewAccountingPronouncementsOrChangeInAccountingPrincipleLineItems_638581430144731709" xlink:to="us-gaap_ChangeInAccountingPrincipleAccountingStandardsUpdateAdopted_638581430144741710" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureRevenuesSegmentInformationDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99940301 - Disclosure - REVENUES - Segment Information (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerAbstract" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_SegmentReportingDisclosureOfEntitysReportableSegmentsAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_SegmentReportingDisclosureOfEntitysReportableSegmentsAbstract_638581430144741710" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_SegmentReportingDisclosureOfEntitysReportableSegmentsAbstract_638581430144741710" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_NumberOfReportableSegments" xlink:label="us-gaap_NumberOfReportableSegments_638581430144741710" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentReportingDisclosureOfEntitysReportableSegmentsAbstract_638581430144741710" xlink:to="us-gaap_NumberOfReportableSegments_638581430144741710" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureRevenuesGeneralInformationDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99940302 - Disclosure - REVENUES - General Information (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerAbstract" xlink:label="RevenueFromContractWithCustomerAbstract" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTable_638581430144741710" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="RevenueFromContractWithCustomerAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTable_638581430144741710" order="1" use="optional" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis_638581430144741710" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTable_638581430144741710" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis_638581430144741710" order="1" use="optional" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationDomain_638581430144741710" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis_638581430144741710" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationDomain_638581430144741710" order="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_CostOfSalesMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_CostOfSalesMember_638581430144741710" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationDomain_638581430144741710" xlink:to="us-gaap_CostOfSalesMember_638581430144741710" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2024/elts/srt-2024.xsd#srt_RangeAxis" xlink:label="srt_RangeAxis_638581430144751712" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTable_638581430144741710" xlink:to="srt_RangeAxis_638581430144751712" order="2" use="optional" priority="3" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2024/elts/srt-2024.xsd#srt_RangeMember" xlink:label="srt_RangeMember_638581430144751712" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_RangeAxis_638581430144751712" xlink:to="srt_RangeMember_638581430144751712" order="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2024/elts/srt-2024.xsd#srt_MaximumMember" xlink:label="srt_MaximumMember_638581430144751712" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_RangeMember_638581430144751712" xlink:to="srt_MaximumMember_638581430144751712" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2024/elts/srt-2024.xsd#srt_MinimumMember" xlink:label="srt_MinimumMember_638581430144751712" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_RangeMember_638581430144751712" xlink:to="srt_MinimumMember_638581430144751712" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueLineItems_638581430144751712" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTable_638581430144741710" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueLineItems_638581430144751712" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#wldn_PercentOfTotalRevenueComprisedOfContractsWhichIncludeSeparatePhasesOrElements" xlink:label="wldn_PercentOfTotalRevenueComprisedOfContractsWhichIncludeSeparatePhasesOrElements_638581430144751712" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueLineItems_638581430144751712" xlink:to="wldn_PercentOfTotalRevenueComprisedOfContractsWhichIncludeSeparatePhasesOrElements_638581430144751712" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#wldn_LaborAndRelatedExpenseExcludingStockBasedCompensation" xlink:label="wldn_LaborAndRelatedExpenseExcludingStockBasedCompensation_638581430144751712" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueLineItems_638581430144751712" xlink:to="wldn_LaborAndRelatedExpenseExcludingStockBasedCompensation_638581430144751712" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#wldn_AllocationOfFacilitiesCostsToDirectCostsOfContractRevenue" xlink:label="wldn_AllocationOfFacilitiesCostsToDirectCostsOfContractRevenue_638581430144751712" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueLineItems_638581430144751712" xlink:to="wldn_AllocationOfFacilitiesCostsToDirectCostsOfContractRevenue_638581430144751712" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#wldn_RevenueOfTheEntityAsAnAgent" xlink:label="wldn_RevenueOfTheEntityAsAnAgent_638581430144751712" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueLineItems_638581430144751712" xlink:to="wldn_RevenueOfTheEntityAsAnAgent_638581430144751712" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ConstructionContractorReceivableRetainage" xlink:label="us-gaap_ConstructionContractorReceivableRetainage_638581430144751712" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueLineItems_638581430144751712" xlink:to="us-gaap_ConstructionContractorReceivableRetainage_638581430144751712" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureSupplementalFinancialStatementDataRestrictedCashDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99940401 - Disclosure - SUPPLEMENTAL FINANCIAL STATEMENT DATA - Restricted Cash (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_BalanceSheetRelatedDisclosuresAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_BalanceSheetRelatedDisclosuresAbstract_2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_CashCashEquivalentsRestrictedCashAndRestrictedCashEquivalentsAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_CashCashEquivalentsRestrictedCashAndRestrictedCashEquivalentsAbstract_638581430144761710" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_BalanceSheetRelatedDisclosuresAbstract_2" xlink:to="us-gaap_CashCashEquivalentsRestrictedCashAndRestrictedCashEquivalentsAbstract_638581430144761710" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsAtCarryingValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsAtCarryingValue_638581430144761710" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_CashCashEquivalentsRestrictedCashAndRestrictedCashEquivalentsAbstract_638581430144761710" xlink:to="us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsAtCarryingValue_638581430144761710" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_RestrictedCash" xlink:label="us-gaap_RestrictedCash_638581430144761710" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_CashCashEquivalentsRestrictedCashAndRestrictedCashEquivalentsAbstract_638581430144761710" xlink:to="us-gaap_RestrictedCash_638581430144761710" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_CashCashEquivalentsRestrictedCashAndRestrictedCashEquivalents" xlink:label="us-gaap_CashCashEquivalentsRestrictedCashAndRestrictedCashEquivalents_638581430144761710" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_CashCashEquivalentsRestrictedCashAndRestrictedCashEquivalentsAbstract_638581430144761710" xlink:to="us-gaap_CashCashEquivalentsRestrictedCashAndRestrictedCashEquivalents_638581430144761710" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_RestrictedCashAssetStatementOfFinancialPositionExtensibleList" xlink:label="us-gaap_RestrictedCashAssetStatementOfFinancialPositionExtensibleList_638581430144761710" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_CashCashEquivalentsRestrictedCashAndRestrictedCashEquivalentsAbstract_638581430144761710" xlink:to="us-gaap_RestrictedCashAssetStatementOfFinancialPositionExtensibleList_638581430144761710" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureSupplementalFinancialStatementDataEquipmentAndLeaseholdImprovementsNetTabularDisclosureDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99940402 - Disclosure - SUPPLEMENTAL FINANCIAL STATEMENT DATA - Equipment and Leasehold Improvements, Net - Tabular Disclosure (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_BalanceSheetRelatedDisclosuresAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_BalanceSheetRelatedDisclosuresAbstract" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentTable_638581430144761710" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_BalanceSheetRelatedDisclosuresAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentTable_638581430144761710" order="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis_638581430144761710" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentTable_638581430144761710" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis_638581430144761710" order="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain_638581430144761710" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis_638581430144761710" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain_638581430144761710" order="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_FurnitureAndFixturesMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_FurnitureAndFixturesMember_638581430144761710" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain_638581430144761710" xlink:to="us-gaap_FurnitureAndFixturesMember_638581430144761710" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#wldn_ComputerHardwareAndSoftwareMember" xlink:label="wldn_ComputerHardwareAndSoftwareMember_638581430144761710" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain_638581430144761710" xlink:to="wldn_ComputerHardwareAndSoftwareMember_638581430144761710" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_LeaseholdImprovementsMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_LeaseholdImprovementsMember_638581430144771710" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain_638581430144761710" xlink:to="us-gaap_LeaseholdImprovementsMember_638581430144771710" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#wldn_AutomobilesTrucksAndFieldEquipmentMember" xlink:label="wldn_AutomobilesTrucksAndFieldEquipmentMember_638581430144771710" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain_638581430144761710" xlink:to="wldn_AutomobilesTrucksAndFieldEquipmentMember_638581430144771710" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentLineItems_638581430144771710" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentTable_638581430144761710" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentLineItems_638581430144771710" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentAndFinanceLeaseRightOfUseAssetAfterAccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortizationAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentAndFinanceLeaseRightOfUseAssetAfterAccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortizationAbstract_638581430144771710" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentLineItems_638581430144771710" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentAndFinanceLeaseRightOfUseAssetAfterAccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortizationAbstract_638581430144771710" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentGross" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentGross_638581430144771710" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentAndFinanceLeaseRightOfUseAssetAfterAccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortizationAbstract_638581430144771710" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentGross_638581430144771710" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_FinanceLeaseRightOfUseAssetBeforeAccumulatedAmortization" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseRightOfUseAssetBeforeAccumulatedAmortization_638581430144771710" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentAndFinanceLeaseRightOfUseAssetAfterAccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortizationAbstract_638581430144771710" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseRightOfUseAssetBeforeAccumulatedAmortization_638581430144771710" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentAndFinanceLeaseRightOfUseAssetBeforeAccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortization" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentAndFinanceLeaseRightOfUseAssetBeforeAccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortization_638581430144771710" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentAndFinanceLeaseRightOfUseAssetAfterAccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortizationAbstract_638581430144771710" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentAndFinanceLeaseRightOfUseAssetBeforeAccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortization_638581430144771710" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentAndFinanceLeaseRightOfUseAssetAccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortization" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentAndFinanceLeaseRightOfUseAssetAccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortization_638581430144771710" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentAndFinanceLeaseRightOfUseAssetAfterAccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortizationAbstract_638581430144771710" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentAndFinanceLeaseRightOfUseAssetAccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortization_638581430144771710" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentAndFinanceLeaseRightOfUseAssetAfterAccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortization" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentAndFinanceLeaseRightOfUseAssetAfterAccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortization_638581430144771710" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentAndFinanceLeaseRightOfUseAssetAfterAccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortizationAbstract_638581430144771710" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentAndFinanceLeaseRightOfUseAssetAfterAccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortization_638581430144771710" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" priority="1" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureSupplementalFinancialStatementDataEquipmentAndLeaseholdImprovementsNetDepreciationAndAmortizationExpenseDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99940403 - Disclosure - SUPPLEMENTAL FINANCIAL STATEMENT DATA - Equipment and Leasehold Improvements, Net - Depreciation and Amortization Expense (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_BalanceSheetRelatedDisclosuresAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_BalanceSheetRelatedDisclosuresAbstract_4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_DepreciationAndAmortizationAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_DepreciationAndAmortizationAbstract_638581430144781709" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_BalanceSheetRelatedDisclosuresAbstract_4" xlink:to="us-gaap_DepreciationAndAmortizationAbstract_638581430144781709" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_AdjustmentForAmortizationAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_AdjustmentForAmortizationAbstract_638581430144781709" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DepreciationAndAmortizationAbstract_638581430144781709" xlink:to="us-gaap_AdjustmentForAmortizationAbstract_638581430144781709" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_FinanceLeaseRightOfUseAssetAmortization" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseRightOfUseAssetAmortization_638581430144781709" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AdjustmentForAmortizationAbstract_638581430144781709" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseRightOfUseAssetAmortization_638581430144781709" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureSupplementalFinancialStatementDataAccruedLiabilitiesDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99940404 - Disclosure - SUPPLEMENTAL FINANCIAL STATEMENT DATA - Accrued Liabilities (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_BalanceSheetRelatedDisclosuresAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_BalanceSheetRelatedDisclosuresAbstract_1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_AccruedLiabilitiesCurrentAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccruedLiabilitiesCurrentAbstract_638581430144781709" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_BalanceSheetRelatedDisclosuresAbstract_1" xlink:to="us-gaap_AccruedLiabilitiesCurrentAbstract_638581430144781709" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#wldn_AccruedSubcontractorCosts" xlink:label="wldn_AccruedSubcontractorCosts_638581430144781709" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AccruedLiabilitiesCurrentAbstract_638581430144781709" xlink:to="wldn_AccruedSubcontractorCosts_638581430144781709" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_AccruedBonusesCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccruedBonusesCurrent_638581430144781709" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AccruedLiabilitiesCurrentAbstract_638581430144781709" xlink:to="us-gaap_AccruedBonusesCurrent_638581430144781709" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#wldn_EmployeeWithholdings" xlink:label="wldn_EmployeeWithholdings_638581430144781709" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AccruedLiabilitiesCurrentAbstract_638581430144781709" xlink:to="wldn_EmployeeWithholdings_638581430144781709" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#wldn_CompensationAndPayrollTaxesCurrent" xlink:label="wldn_CompensationAndPayrollTaxesCurrent_638581430144781709" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AccruedLiabilitiesCurrentAbstract_638581430144781709" xlink:to="wldn_CompensationAndPayrollTaxesCurrent_638581430144781709" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#wldn_AccruedRebatesAndOtherCurrent" xlink:label="wldn_AccruedRebatesAndOtherCurrent_638581430144781709" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AccruedLiabilitiesCurrentAbstract_638581430144781709" xlink:to="wldn_AccruedRebatesAndOtherCurrent_638581430144781709" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#wldn_AccruedAccountingAndTaxesCurrent" xlink:label="wldn_AccruedAccountingAndTaxesCurrent_638581430144781709" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AccruedLiabilitiesCurrentAbstract_638581430144781709" xlink:to="wldn_AccruedAccountingAndTaxesCurrent_638581430144781709" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_AccruedLiabilitiesCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccruedLiabilitiesCurrent_638581430144791712" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AccruedLiabilitiesCurrentAbstract_638581430144781709" xlink:to="us-gaap_AccruedLiabilitiesCurrent_638581430144791712" order="7" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" priority="1" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureSupplementalFinancialStatementDataGoodwillDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99940405 - Disclosure - SUPPLEMENTAL FINANCIAL STATEMENT DATA - Goodwill (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_BalanceSheetRelatedDisclosuresAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_BalanceSheetRelatedDisclosuresAbstract_8" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfGoodwillTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfGoodwillTable_638581430144791712" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_BalanceSheetRelatedDisclosuresAbstract_8" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfGoodwillTable_638581430144791712" order="1" use="optional" priority="3" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis_638581430144791712" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfGoodwillTable_638581430144791712" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis_638581430144791712" order="1" use="optional" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_SegmentDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_SegmentDomain_638581430144791712" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis_638581430144791712" xlink:to="us-gaap_SegmentDomain_638581430144791712" order="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#wldn_EnergyMember" xlink:label="wldn_EnergyMember_638581430144791712" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentDomain_638581430144791712" xlink:to="wldn_EnergyMember_638581430144791712" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#wldn_EngineeringConsultingServicesMember" xlink:label="wldn_EngineeringConsultingServicesMember_638581430144791712" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentDomain_638581430144791712" xlink:to="wldn_EngineeringConsultingServicesMember_638581430144791712" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_GoodwillLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_GoodwillLineItems_638581430144791712" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfGoodwillTable_638581430144791712" xlink:to="us-gaap_GoodwillLineItems_638581430144791712" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_GoodwillRollForward" xlink:label="us-gaap_GoodwillRollForward_638581430144791712" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_GoodwillLineItems_638581430144791712" xlink:to="us-gaap_GoodwillRollForward_638581430144791712" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_Goodwill" xlink:label="us-gaap_Goodwill_638581430144791712" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_GoodwillRollForward_638581430144791712" xlink:to="us-gaap_Goodwill_638581430144791712" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/periodStartLabel" priority="3" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_Goodwill" xlink:label="us-gaap_Goodwill_6385814301447917121" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_GoodwillRollForward_638581430144791712" xlink:to="us-gaap_Goodwill_6385814301447917121" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/periodEndLabel" priority="3" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureSupplementalFinancialStatementDataFiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsGrossAmountsAndAccumulatedAmortizationDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99940406 - Disclosure - SUPPLEMENTAL FINANCIAL STATEMENT DATA - Finite-lived Intangible Assets - Gross Amounts and Accumulated Amortization (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_BalanceSheetRelatedDisclosuresAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_BalanceSheetRelatedDisclosuresAbstract_10" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfFiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfFiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsTable_638581430144801713" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_BalanceSheetRelatedDisclosuresAbstract_10" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfFiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsTable_638581430144801713" order="1" use="optional" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsByMajorClassAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsByMajorClassAxis_638581430144801713" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfFiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsTable_638581430144801713" xlink:to="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsByMajorClassAxis_638581430144801713" order="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsMajorClassNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsMajorClassNameDomain_638581430144801713" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsByMajorClassAxis_638581430144801713" xlink:to="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsMajorClassNameDomain_638581430144801713" order="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_OrderOrProductionBacklogMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_OrderOrProductionBacklogMember_638581430144801713" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsMajorClassNameDomain_638581430144801713" xlink:to="us-gaap_OrderOrProductionBacklogMember_638581430144801713" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_TradeNamesMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_TradeNamesMember_638581430144801713" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsMajorClassNameDomain_638581430144801713" xlink:to="us-gaap_TradeNamesMember_638581430144801713" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_NoncompeteAgreementsMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_NoncompeteAgreementsMember_638581430144801713" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsMajorClassNameDomain_638581430144801713" xlink:to="us-gaap_NoncompeteAgreementsMember_638581430144801713" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_DevelopedTechnologyRightsMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_DevelopedTechnologyRightsMember_638581430144801713" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsMajorClassNameDomain_638581430144801713" xlink:to="us-gaap_DevelopedTechnologyRightsMember_638581430144801713" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_CustomerRelationshipsMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_CustomerRelationshipsMember_638581430144801713" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsMajorClassNameDomain_638581430144801713" xlink:to="us-gaap_CustomerRelationshipsMember_638581430144801713" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsLineItems_638581430144801713" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfFiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsTable_638581430144801713" xlink:to="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsLineItems_638581430144801713" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsNetAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsNetAbstract_638581430144811713" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsLineItems_638581430144801713" xlink:to="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsNetAbstract_638581430144811713" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsGross" xlink:label="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsGross_638581430144811713" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsNetAbstract_638581430144811713" xlink:to="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsGross_638581430144811713" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsAccumulatedAmortization" xlink:label="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsAccumulatedAmortization_638581430144811713" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsNetAbstract_638581430144811713" xlink:to="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsAccumulatedAmortization_638581430144811713" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureSupplementalFinancialStatementDataFiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsAmortizationPeriodDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99940407 - Disclosure - SUPPLEMENTAL FINANCIAL STATEMENT DATA - Finite-lived Intangible Assets - Amortization Period (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_BalanceSheetRelatedDisclosuresAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_BalanceSheetRelatedDisclosuresAbstract_11" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfFiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfFiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsTable_638581430144811713" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_BalanceSheetRelatedDisclosuresAbstract_11" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfFiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsTable_638581430144811713" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsByMajorClassAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsByMajorClassAxis_638581430144811713" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfFiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsTable_638581430144811713" xlink:to="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsByMajorClassAxis_638581430144811713" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsMajorClassNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsMajorClassNameDomain_638581430144811713" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsByMajorClassAxis_638581430144811713" xlink:to="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsMajorClassNameDomain_638581430144811713" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_OrderOrProductionBacklogMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_OrderOrProductionBacklogMember_638581430144811713" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsMajorClassNameDomain_638581430144811713" xlink:to="us-gaap_OrderOrProductionBacklogMember_638581430144811713" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_TradeNamesMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_TradeNamesMember_638581430144811713" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsMajorClassNameDomain_638581430144811713" xlink:to="us-gaap_TradeNamesMember_638581430144811713" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_NoncompeteAgreementsMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_NoncompeteAgreementsMember_638581430144811713" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsMajorClassNameDomain_638581430144811713" xlink:to="us-gaap_NoncompeteAgreementsMember_638581430144811713" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_DevelopedTechnologyRightsMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_DevelopedTechnologyRightsMember_638581430144821710" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsMajorClassNameDomain_638581430144811713" xlink:to="us-gaap_DevelopedTechnologyRightsMember_638581430144821710" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_CustomerRelationshipsMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_CustomerRelationshipsMember_638581430144821710" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsMajorClassNameDomain_638581430144811713" xlink:to="us-gaap_CustomerRelationshipsMember_638581430144821710" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2024/elts/srt-2024.xsd#srt_RangeAxis" xlink:label="srt_RangeAxis_638581430144821710" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfFiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsTable_638581430144811713" xlink:to="srt_RangeAxis_638581430144821710" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2024/elts/srt-2024.xsd#srt_RangeMember" xlink:label="srt_RangeMember_638581430144821710" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_RangeAxis_638581430144821710" xlink:to="srt_RangeMember_638581430144821710" order="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2024/elts/srt-2024.xsd#srt_MinimumMember" xlink:label="srt_MinimumMember_638581430144821710" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_RangeMember_638581430144821710" xlink:to="srt_MinimumMember_638581430144821710" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2024/elts/srt-2024.xsd#srt_MaximumMember" xlink:label="srt_MaximumMember_638581430144821710" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_RangeMember_638581430144821710" xlink:to="srt_MaximumMember_638581430144821710" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsLineItems_638581430144821710" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfFiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsTable_638581430144811713" xlink:to="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsLineItems_638581430144821710" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetUsefulLife" xlink:label="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetUsefulLife_638581430144821710" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsLineItems_638581430144821710" xlink:to="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetUsefulLife_638581430144821710" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureDerivativeFinancialInstrumentsGeneralInformationDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99940501 - Disclosure - DERIVATIVE FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS - General Information (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsAndHedgingActivitiesDisclosureAbstract" xlink:label="DerivativeInstrumentsAndHedgingActivitiesDisclosureAbstract" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_DerivativeTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_DerivativeTable_638581430144821710" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="DerivativeInstrumentsAndHedgingActivitiesDisclosureAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_DerivativeTable_638581430144821710" order="1" use="optional" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis_638581430144831705" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DerivativeTable_638581430144821710" xlink:to="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis_638581430144831705" order="1" use="optional" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_DerivativeContractTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_DerivativeContractTypeDomain_638581430144831705" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis_638581430144831705" xlink:to="us-gaap_DerivativeContractTypeDomain_638581430144831705" order="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_InterestRateSwapMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_InterestRateSwapMember_638581430144831705" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DerivativeContractTypeDomain_638581430144831705" xlink:to="us-gaap_InterestRateSwapMember_638581430144831705" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByHedgingRelationshipAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByHedgingRelationshipAxis_638581430144831705" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DerivativeTable_638581430144821710" xlink:to="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByHedgingRelationshipAxis_638581430144831705" order="2" use="optional" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_HedgingRelationshipDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_HedgingRelationshipDomain_638581430144831705" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByHedgingRelationshipAxis_638581430144831705" xlink:to="us-gaap_HedgingRelationshipDomain_638581430144831705" order="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_CashFlowHedgingMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_CashFlowHedgingMember_638581430144831705" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_HedgingRelationshipDomain_638581430144831705" xlink:to="us-gaap_CashFlowHedgingMember_638581430144831705" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_DerivativeLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_DerivativeLineItems_638581430144831705" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DerivativeTable_638581430144821710" xlink:to="us-gaap_DerivativeLineItems_638581430144831705" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_DerivativeInceptionDates" xlink:label="us-gaap_DerivativeInceptionDates_638581430144831705" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DerivativeLineItems_638581430144831705" xlink:to="us-gaap_DerivativeInceptionDates_638581430144831705" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_DerivativeNotionalAmount" xlink:label="us-gaap_DerivativeNotionalAmount_638581430144831705" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DerivativeLineItems_638581430144831705" xlink:to="us-gaap_DerivativeNotionalAmount_638581430144831705" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_DerivativeFixedInterestRate" xlink:label="us-gaap_DerivativeFixedInterestRate_638581430144831705" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DerivativeLineItems_638581430144831705" xlink:to="us-gaap_DerivativeFixedInterestRate_638581430144831705" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_DerivativeMaturityDates" xlink:label="us-gaap_DerivativeMaturityDates_638581430144831705" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DerivativeLineItems_638581430144831705" xlink:to="us-gaap_DerivativeMaturityDates_638581430144831705" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureDerivativeFinancialInstrumentsCashFlowHedgeEffectivenessDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99940502 - Disclosure - DERIVATIVE FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS - Cash Flow Hedge Effectiveness (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsAndHedgingActivitiesDisclosureAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsAndHedgingActivitiesDisclosureAbstract_1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeDerivativesQualifyingAsHedgesBeforeTaxPeriodIncreaseDecreaseAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeDerivativesQualifyingAsHedgesBeforeTaxPeriodIncreaseDecreaseAbstract_638581430144841709" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsAndHedgingActivitiesDisclosureAbstract_1" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeDerivativesQualifyingAsHedgesBeforeTaxPeriodIncreaseDecreaseAbstract_638581430144841709" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossCashFlowHedgeGainLossBeforeReclassificationAndTax" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossCashFlowHedgeGainLossBeforeReclassificationAndTax_638581430144841709" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeDerivativesQualifyingAsHedgesBeforeTaxPeriodIncreaseDecreaseAbstract_638581430144841709" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossCashFlowHedgeGainLossBeforeReclassificationAndTax_638581430144841709" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossCashFlowHedgeGainLossReclassificationBeforeTax" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossCashFlowHedgeGainLossReclassificationBeforeTax_638581430144841709" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeDerivativesQualifyingAsHedgesBeforeTaxPeriodIncreaseDecreaseAbstract_638581430144841709" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossCashFlowHedgeGainLossReclassificationBeforeTax_638581430144841709" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossCashFlowHedgeGainLossAfterReclassificationBeforeTax" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossCashFlowHedgeGainLossAfterReclassificationBeforeTax_638581430144841709" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeDerivativesQualifyingAsHedgesBeforeTaxPeriodIncreaseDecreaseAbstract_638581430144841709" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossCashFlowHedgeGainLossAfterReclassificationBeforeTax_638581430144841709" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossReclassificationFromAccumulatedOCIToIncomeEstimatedNetAmountToBeTransferred" xlink:label="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossReclassificationFromAccumulatedOCIToIncomeEstimatedNetAmountToBeTransferred_638581430144841709" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeDerivativesQualifyingAsHedgesBeforeTaxPeriodIncreaseDecreaseAbstract_638581430144841709" xlink:to="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossReclassificationFromAccumulatedOCIToIncomeEstimatedNetAmountToBeTransferred_638581430144841709" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossReclassificationFromAccumulatedOCIToIncomeEstimateOfTimeToTransfer1" xlink:label="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossReclassificationFromAccumulatedOCIToIncomeEstimateOfTimeToTransfer1_638581430144841709" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeDerivativesQualifyingAsHedgesBeforeTaxPeriodIncreaseDecreaseAbstract_638581430144841709" xlink:to="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossReclassificationFromAccumulatedOCIToIncomeEstimateOfTimeToTransfer1_638581430144841709" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureDerivativeFinancialInstrumentsFairValueDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99940503 - Disclosure - DERIVATIVE FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS - Fair Value (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsAndHedgingActivitiesDisclosureAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsAndHedgingActivitiesDisclosureAbstract" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_DerivativeAssetsLiabilitiesAtFairValueNetByBalanceSheetClassificationAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_DerivativeAssetsLiabilitiesAtFairValueNetByBalanceSheetClassificationAbstract_638581430144841709" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsAndHedgingActivitiesDisclosureAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_DerivativeAssetsLiabilitiesAtFairValueNetByBalanceSheetClassificationAbstract_638581430144841709" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_DerivativeAssetsAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_DerivativeAssetsAbstract_638581430144851717" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DerivativeAssetsLiabilitiesAtFairValueNetByBalanceSheetClassificationAbstract_638581430144841709" xlink:to="us-gaap_DerivativeAssetsAbstract_638581430144851717" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_DerivativeAssetsCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_DerivativeAssetsCurrent_638581430144851717" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DerivativeAssetsAbstract_638581430144851717" xlink:to="us-gaap_DerivativeAssetsCurrent_638581430144851717" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_DerivativeAssetCurrentStatementOfFinancialPositionExtensibleEnumeration" xlink:label="us-gaap_DerivativeAssetCurrentStatementOfFinancialPositionExtensibleEnumeration_638581430144851717" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DerivativeAssetsAbstract_638581430144851717" xlink:to="us-gaap_DerivativeAssetCurrentStatementOfFinancialPositionExtensibleEnumeration_638581430144851717" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_DerivativeLiabilitiesAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_DerivativeLiabilitiesAbstract_638581430144851717" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DerivativeAssetsLiabilitiesAtFairValueNetByBalanceSheetClassificationAbstract_638581430144841709" xlink:to="us-gaap_DerivativeLiabilitiesAbstract_638581430144851717" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_DerivativeLiabilitiesNoncurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_DerivativeLiabilitiesNoncurrent_638581430144851717" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DerivativeLiabilitiesAbstract_638581430144851717" xlink:to="us-gaap_DerivativeLiabilitiesNoncurrent_638581430144851717" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_DerivativeLiabilityNoncurrentStatementOfFinancialPositionExtensibleEnumeration" xlink:label="us-gaap_DerivativeLiabilityNoncurrentStatementOfFinancialPositionExtensibleEnumeration_638581430144851717" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DerivativeLiabilitiesAbstract_638581430144851717" xlink:to="us-gaap_DerivativeLiabilityNoncurrentStatementOfFinancialPositionExtensibleEnumeration_638581430144851717" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureDerivativeFinancialInstrumentsAccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeLossDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99940504 - Disclosure - DERIVATIVE FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS - Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsAndHedgingActivitiesDisclosureAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsAndHedgingActivitiesDisclosureAbstract_2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeLossTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeLossTable_638581430144851717" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsAndHedgingActivitiesDisclosureAbstract_2" xlink:to="us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeLossTable_638581430144851717" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis_638581430144851717" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeLossTable_638581430144851717" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis_638581430144851717" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain_638581430144851717" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis_638581430144851717" xlink:to="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain_638581430144851717" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ParentMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_ParentMember_638581430144851717" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain_638581430144851717" xlink:to="us-gaap_ParentMember_638581430144851717" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_AccumulatedGainLossNetCashFlowHedgeParentMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccumulatedGainLossNetCashFlowHedgeParentMember_638581430144861710" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ParentMember_638581430144851717" xlink:to="us-gaap_AccumulatedGainLossNetCashFlowHedgeParentMember_638581430144861710" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeMember_638581430144861710" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ParentMember_638581430144851717" xlink:to="us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeMember_638581430144861710" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeLossLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeLossLineItems_638581430144861710" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeLossTable_638581430144851717" xlink:to="us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeLossLineItems_638581430144861710" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ReclassificationFromAccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeCurrentPeriodNetOfTaxAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_ReclassificationFromAccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeCurrentPeriodNetOfTaxAbstract_638581430144861710" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeLossLineItems_638581430144861710" xlink:to="us-gaap_ReclassificationFromAccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeCurrentPeriodNetOfTaxAbstract_638581430144861710" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_StockholdersEquityIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest_638581430144861710" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ReclassificationFromAccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeCurrentPeriodNetOfTaxAbstract_638581430144861710" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest_638581430144861710" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/periodStartLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossBeforeReclassificationsNetOfTax" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossBeforeReclassificationsNetOfTax_638581430144861710" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ReclassificationFromAccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeCurrentPeriodNetOfTaxAbstract_638581430144861710" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossBeforeReclassificationsNetOfTax_638581430144861710" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ReclassificationFromAccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeCurrentPeriodNetOfTax" xlink:label="us-gaap_ReclassificationFromAccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeCurrentPeriodNetOfTax_638581430144861710" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ReclassificationFromAccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeCurrentPeriodNetOfTaxAbstract_638581430144861710" xlink:to="us-gaap_ReclassificationFromAccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeCurrentPeriodNetOfTax_638581430144861710" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossNetOfTax" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossNetOfTax_638581430144861710" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ReclassificationFromAccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeCurrentPeriodNetOfTaxAbstract_638581430144861710" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossNetOfTax_638581430144861710" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_StockholdersEquityIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest_6385814301448617101" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ReclassificationFromAccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeCurrentPeriodNetOfTaxAbstract_638581430144861710" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest_6385814301448617101" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/periodEndLabel" priority="2" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureDebtObligationsCompositionDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99940601 - Disclosure - DEBT OBLIGATIONS - Composition (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_DebtDisclosureAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtDisclosureAbstract" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable_638581430144871710" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtDisclosureAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable_638581430144871710" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis_638581430144871710" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable_638581430144871710" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis_638581430144871710" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain_638581430144871710" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis_638581430144871710" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain_638581430144871710" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_NotesPayableToBanksMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_NotesPayableToBanksMember_638581430144871710" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain_638581430144871710" xlink:to="us-gaap_NotesPayableToBanksMember_638581430144871710" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_NotesPayableOtherPayablesMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_NotesPayableOtherPayablesMember_638581430144871710" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain_638581430144871710" xlink:to="us-gaap_NotesPayableOtherPayablesMember_638581430144871710" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis_638581430144871710" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable_638581430144871710" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis_638581430144871710" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_638581430144871710" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis_638581430144871710" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_638581430144871710" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#wldn_TermLoanMember" xlink:label="wldn_TermLoanMember_638581430144871710" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_638581430144871710" xlink:to="wldn_TermLoanMember_638581430144871710" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#wldn_OtherDebtMember" xlink:label="wldn_OtherDebtMember_638581430144871710" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_638581430144871710" xlink:to="wldn_OtherDebtMember_638581430144871710" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_638581430144871710" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable_638581430144871710" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_638581430144871710" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentCarryingAmount" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentCarryingAmount_638581430144871710" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_638581430144871710" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentCarryingAmount_638581430144871710" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_DeferredFinanceCostsNet" xlink:label="us-gaap_DeferredFinanceCostsNet_638581430144871710" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_638581430144871710" xlink:to="us-gaap_DeferredFinanceCostsNet_638581430144871710" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_LongTermDebt" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongTermDebt_638581430144881709" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_638581430144871710" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongTermDebt_638581430144881709" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" priority="1" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureDebtObligationsClassificationDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99940602 - Disclosure - DEBT OBLIGATIONS - Classification (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_DebtDisclosureAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtDisclosureAbstract_1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_LongtermDebtCurrentAndNoncurrentAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongtermDebtCurrentAndNoncurrentAbstract_638581430144881709" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtDisclosureAbstract_1" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongtermDebtCurrentAndNoncurrentAbstract_638581430144881709" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_LongTermDebt" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongTermDebt_638581430144881709" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongtermDebtCurrentAndNoncurrentAbstract_638581430144881709" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongTermDebt_638581430144881709" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_LongTermDebtCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongTermDebtCurrent_638581430144881709" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongtermDebtCurrentAndNoncurrentAbstract_638581430144881709" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongTermDebtCurrent_638581430144881709" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_LongTermDebtNoncurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongTermDebtNoncurrent_638581430144881709" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongtermDebtCurrentAndNoncurrentAbstract_638581430144881709" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongTermDebtNoncurrent_638581430144881709" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureDebtObligationsNewCreditFacilitiesDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99940603 - Disclosure - DEBT OBLIGATIONS - New Credit Facilities (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_DebtDisclosureAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtDisclosureAbstract_5" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable_638581430144881709" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtDisclosureAbstract_5" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable_638581430144881709" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis_638581430144881709" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable_638581430144881709" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis_638581430144881709" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain_638581430144881709" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis_638581430144881709" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain_638581430144881709" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_NotesPayableToBanksMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_NotesPayableToBanksMember_638581430144891712" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain_638581430144881709" xlink:to="us-gaap_NotesPayableToBanksMember_638581430144891712" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis_638581430144891712" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable_638581430144881709" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis_638581430144891712" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_638581430144891712" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis_638581430144891712" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_638581430144891712" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#wldn_CreditAgreement2023Member" xlink:label="wldn_CreditAgreement2023Member_638581430144891712" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain_638581430144891712" xlink:to="wldn_CreditAgreement2023Member_638581430144891712" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_638581430144891712" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable_638581430144881709" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_638581430144891712" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#wldn_DebtInstrumentCompositeInterestRate" xlink:label="wldn_DebtInstrumentCompositeInterestRate_638581430144891712" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_638581430144891712" xlink:to="wldn_DebtInstrumentCompositeInterestRate_638581430144891712" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureLeasesGeneralInformationDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99940701 - Disclosure - LEASES - General Information (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_LeasesAbstract" xlink:label="LeasesAbstract" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionTable_638581430144891712" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="LeasesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionTable_638581430144891712" order="1" use="optional" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2024/elts/srt-2024.xsd#srt_RangeAxis" xlink:label="srt_RangeAxis_638581430144891712" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionTable_638581430144891712" xlink:to="srt_RangeAxis_638581430144891712" order="1" use="optional" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2024/elts/srt-2024.xsd#srt_RangeMember" xlink:label="srt_RangeMember_638581430144891712" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_RangeAxis_638581430144891712" xlink:to="srt_RangeMember_638581430144891712" order="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2024/elts/srt-2024.xsd#srt_MinimumMember" xlink:label="srt_MinimumMember_638581430144901713" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_RangeMember_638581430144891712" xlink:to="srt_MinimumMember_638581430144901713" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2024/elts/srt-2024.xsd#srt_MaximumMember" xlink:label="srt_MaximumMember_638581430144901713" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_RangeMember_638581430144891712" xlink:to="srt_MaximumMember_638581430144901713" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems_638581430144901713" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionTable_638581430144891712" xlink:to="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems_638581430144901713" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseRemainingLeaseTerm" xlink:label="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseRemainingLeaseTerm_638581430144901713" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems_638581430144901713" xlink:to="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseRemainingLeaseTerm_638581430144901713" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="6" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseExistenceOfOptionToExtend" xlink:label="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseExistenceOfOptionToExtend_638581430144901713" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems_638581430144901713" xlink:to="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseExistenceOfOptionToExtend_638581430144901713" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseRenewalTerm" xlink:label="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseRenewalTerm_638581430144901713" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems_638581430144901713" xlink:to="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseRenewalTerm_638581430144901713" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseExistenceOfOptionToTerminate" xlink:label="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseExistenceOfOptionToTerminate_638581430144901713" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems_638581430144901713" xlink:to="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseExistenceOfOptionToTerminate_638581430144901713" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#wldn_LesseeOperatingLeaseTerminateTerm" xlink:label="wldn_LesseeOperatingLeaseTerminateTerm_638581430144901713" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems_638581430144901713" xlink:to="wldn_LesseeOperatingLeaseTerminateTerm_638581430144901713" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ResidualValueOfLeasedAsset" xlink:label="us-gaap_ResidualValueOfLeasedAsset_638581430144901713" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeLeaseDescriptionLineItems_638581430144901713" xlink:to="us-gaap_ResidualValueOfLeasedAsset_638581430144901713" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureLeasesLeaseExpenseDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99940702 - Disclosure - LEASES - Lease Expense (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_LeasesAbstract" xlink:label="LeasesAbstract" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_LeaseCostAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_LeaseCostAbstract_638581430144901713" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="LeasesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_LeaseCostAbstract_638581430144901713" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingLeaseCost" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseCost_638581430144911711" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LeaseCostAbstract_638581430144901713" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseCost_638581430144911711" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="3" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_SubleaseIncome" xlink:label="us-gaap_SubleaseIncome_638581430144911711" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LeaseCostAbstract_638581430144901713" xlink:to="us-gaap_SubleaseIncome_638581430144911711" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_FinanceLeaseRightOfUseAssetAmortization" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseRightOfUseAssetAmortization_638581430144911711" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LeaseCostAbstract_638581430144901713" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseRightOfUseAssetAmortization_638581430144911711" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_FinanceLeaseInterestExpense" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseInterestExpense_638581430144911711" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LeaseCostAbstract_638581430144901713" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseInterestExpense_638581430144911711" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="7" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_LeaseCost" xlink:label="us-gaap_LeaseCost_638581430144911711" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LeaseCostAbstract_638581430144901713" xlink:to="us-gaap_LeaseCost_638581430144911711" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" priority="7" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureLeasesConsolidatedBalanceSheetDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99940703 - Disclosure - LEASES - Consolidated Balance Sheet (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_LeasesAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_LeasesAbstract" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_AssetsAndLiabilitiesLesseeAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_AssetsAndLiabilitiesLesseeAbstract_638581430144911711" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LeasesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_AssetsAndLiabilitiesLesseeAbstract_638581430144911711" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingLeaseRightOfUseAsset" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseRightOfUseAsset_638581430144911711" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsAndLiabilitiesLesseeAbstract_638581430144911711" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseRightOfUseAsset_638581430144911711" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiabilityAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiabilityAbstract_638581430144911711" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsAndLiabilitiesLesseeAbstract_638581430144911711" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiabilityAbstract_638581430144911711" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiabilityCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiabilityCurrent_638581430144911711" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiabilityAbstract_638581430144911711" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiabilityCurrent_638581430144911711" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiabilityNoncurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiabilityNoncurrent_638581430144911711" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiabilityAbstract_638581430144911711" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiabilityNoncurrent_638581430144911711" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiability" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiability_638581430144921713" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiabilityAbstract_638581430144911711" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiability_638581430144921713" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_FinanceLeaseRightOfUseAssetAfterAccumulatedAmortizationAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseRightOfUseAssetAfterAccumulatedAmortizationAbstract_638581430144921713" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsAndLiabilitiesLesseeAbstract_638581430144911711" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseRightOfUseAssetAfterAccumulatedAmortizationAbstract_638581430144921713" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_FinanceLeaseRightOfUseAssetBeforeAccumulatedAmortization" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseRightOfUseAssetBeforeAccumulatedAmortization_638581430144921713" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseRightOfUseAssetAfterAccumulatedAmortizationAbstract_638581430144921713" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseRightOfUseAssetBeforeAccumulatedAmortization_638581430144921713" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_FinanceLeaseRightOfUseAssetAccumulatedAmortization" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseRightOfUseAssetAccumulatedAmortization_638581430144921713" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseRightOfUseAssetAfterAccumulatedAmortizationAbstract_638581430144921713" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseRightOfUseAssetAccumulatedAmortization_638581430144921713" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_FinanceLeaseRightOfUseAsset" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseRightOfUseAsset_638581430144921713" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseRightOfUseAssetAfterAccumulatedAmortizationAbstract_638581430144921713" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseRightOfUseAsset_638581430144921713" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_FinanceLeaseRightOfUseAssetStatementOfFinancialPositionExtensibleList" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseRightOfUseAssetStatementOfFinancialPositionExtensibleList_638581430144921713" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseRightOfUseAssetAfterAccumulatedAmortizationAbstract_638581430144921713" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseRightOfUseAssetStatementOfFinancialPositionExtensibleList_638581430144921713" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilityAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilityAbstract_638581430144921713" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsAndLiabilitiesLesseeAbstract_638581430144911711" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilityAbstract_638581430144921713" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilityCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilityCurrent_638581430144921713" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilityAbstract_638581430144921713" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilityCurrent_638581430144921713" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilityNoncurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilityNoncurrent_638581430144921713" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilityAbstract_638581430144921713" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilityNoncurrent_638581430144921713" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiability" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiability_638581430144921713" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilityAbstract_638581430144921713" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiability_638581430144921713" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" priority="1" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureLeasesAdditionalInformationDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99940704 - Disclosure - LEASES - Additional Information (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_LeasesAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_LeasesAbstract_1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_LesseeDisclosureAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_LesseeDisclosureAbstract_638581430144931706" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LeasesAbstract_1" xlink:to="us-gaap_LesseeDisclosureAbstract_638581430144931706" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingLeaseWeightedAverageRemainingLeaseTerm1" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseWeightedAverageRemainingLeaseTerm1_638581430144931706" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeDisclosureAbstract_638581430144931706" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseWeightedAverageRemainingLeaseTerm1_638581430144931706" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_FinanceLeaseWeightedAverageRemainingLeaseTerm1" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseWeightedAverageRemainingLeaseTerm1_638581430144931706" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeDisclosureAbstract_638581430144931706" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseWeightedAverageRemainingLeaseTerm1_638581430144931706" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingLeaseWeightedAverageDiscountRatePercent" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseWeightedAverageDiscountRatePercent_638581430144931706" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeDisclosureAbstract_638581430144931706" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseWeightedAverageDiscountRatePercent_638581430144931706" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_FinanceLeaseWeightedAverageDiscountRatePercent" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseWeightedAverageDiscountRatePercent_638581430144931706" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LesseeDisclosureAbstract_638581430144931706" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseWeightedAverageDiscountRatePercent_638581430144931706" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureLeasesRentExpenseDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99940705 - Disclosure - LEASES - Rent Expense (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_LeasesAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_LeasesAbstract_2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#wldn_OperatingLeaseRentExpenses" xlink:label="wldn_OperatingLeaseRentExpenses_638581430144931706" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LeasesAbstract_2" xlink:to="wldn_OperatingLeaseRentExpenses_638581430144931706" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureLeasesSupplementalCashFlowInformationDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99940706 - Disclosure - LEASES - Supplemental Cash Flow Information (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_LeasesAbstract" xlink:label="LeasesAbstract" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_CashFlowOperatingActivitiesLesseeAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_CashFlowOperatingActivitiesLesseeAbstract_638581430144941715" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="LeasesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_CashFlowOperatingActivitiesLesseeAbstract_638581430144941715" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingLeasePayments" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingLeasePayments_638581430144941715" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_CashFlowOperatingActivitiesLesseeAbstract_638581430144941715" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingLeasePayments_638581430144941715" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="3" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_FinanceLeaseInterestPaymentOnLiability" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseInterestPaymentOnLiability_638581430144941715" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_CashFlowOperatingActivitiesLesseeAbstract_638581430144941715" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseInterestPaymentOnLiability_638581430144941715" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_FinanceLeasePrincipalPayments" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinanceLeasePrincipalPayments_638581430144941715" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_CashFlowOperatingActivitiesLesseeAbstract_638581430144941715" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinanceLeasePrincipalPayments_638581430144941715" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_RightOfUseAssetObtainedInExchangeForOperatingLeaseLiability" xlink:label="us-gaap_RightOfUseAssetObtainedInExchangeForOperatingLeaseLiability_638581430144941715" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_CashFlowOperatingActivitiesLesseeAbstract_638581430144941715" xlink:to="us-gaap_RightOfUseAssetObtainedInExchangeForOperatingLeaseLiability_638581430144941715" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureLeasesOperatingLeasesMaturitiesOfLeaseLiabilitiesDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99940707 - Disclosure - LEASES - Operating Leases - Maturities of Lease Liabilities (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_LeasesAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_LeasesAbstract_3" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiabilitiesPaymentsDueAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiabilitiesPaymentsDueAbstract_638581430144941715" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LeasesAbstract_3" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiabilitiesPaymentsDueAbstract_638581430144941715" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsRemainderOfFiscalYear" xlink:label="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsRemainderOfFiscalYear_638581430144941715" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiabilitiesPaymentsDueAbstract_638581430144941715" xlink:to="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsRemainderOfFiscalYear_638581430144941715" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueNextTwelveMonths" xlink:label="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueNextTwelveMonths_638581430144941715" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiabilitiesPaymentsDueAbstract_638581430144941715" xlink:to="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueNextTwelveMonths_638581430144941715" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueYearTwo" xlink:label="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueYearTwo_638581430144951713" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiabilitiesPaymentsDueAbstract_638581430144941715" xlink:to="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueYearTwo_638581430144951713" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueYearThree" xlink:label="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueYearThree_638581430144951713" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiabilitiesPaymentsDueAbstract_638581430144941715" xlink:to="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueYearThree_638581430144951713" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueYearFour" xlink:label="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueYearFour_638581430144951713" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiabilitiesPaymentsDueAbstract_638581430144941715" xlink:to="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueYearFour_638581430144951713" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#wldn_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueAfterYearFour" xlink:label="wldn_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueAfterYearFour_638581430144951713" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiabilitiesPaymentsDueAbstract_638581430144941715" xlink:to="wldn_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueAfterYearFour_638581430144951713" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDue" xlink:label="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDue_638581430144951713" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiabilitiesPaymentsDueAbstract_638581430144941715" xlink:to="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDue_638581430144951713" order="7" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" priority="1" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureLeasesOperatingLeasesGrossDifferenceDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99940708 - Disclosure - LEASES - Operating Leases - Gross Difference (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_LeasesAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_LeasesAbstract_4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiabilitiesGrossDifferenceAmountAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiabilitiesGrossDifferenceAmountAbstract_638581430144951713" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LeasesAbstract_4" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiabilitiesGrossDifferenceAmountAbstract_638581430144951713" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDue" xlink:label="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDue_638581430144951713" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiabilitiesGrossDifferenceAmountAbstract_638581430144951713" xlink:to="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDue_638581430144951713" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityUndiscountedExcessAmount" xlink:label="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityUndiscountedExcessAmount_638581430144951713" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiabilitiesGrossDifferenceAmountAbstract_638581430144951713" xlink:to="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityUndiscountedExcessAmount_638581430144951713" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiability" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiability_638581430144951713" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiabilitiesGrossDifferenceAmountAbstract_638581430144951713" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiability_638581430144951713" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiabilityCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiabilityCurrent_638581430144951713" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiabilitiesGrossDifferenceAmountAbstract_638581430144951713" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiabilityCurrent_638581430144951713" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiabilityNoncurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiabilityNoncurrent_638581430144961715" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiabilitiesGrossDifferenceAmountAbstract_638581430144951713" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiabilityNoncurrent_638581430144961715" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureLeasesFinanceLeasesMaturitiesOfLeaseLiabilitiesDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99940709 - Disclosure - LEASES - Finance Leases - Maturities of Lease Liabilities (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_LeasesAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_LeasesAbstract_5" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilitiesPaymentsDueAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilitiesPaymentsDueAbstract_638581430144961715" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LeasesAbstract_5" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilitiesPaymentsDueAbstract_638581430144961715" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilityPaymentsRemainderOfFiscalYear" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilityPaymentsRemainderOfFiscalYear_638581430144961715" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilitiesPaymentsDueAbstract_638581430144961715" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilityPaymentsRemainderOfFiscalYear_638581430144961715" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueNextTwelveMonths" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueNextTwelveMonths_638581430144961715" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilitiesPaymentsDueAbstract_638581430144961715" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueNextTwelveMonths_638581430144961715" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueYearTwo" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueYearTwo_638581430144961715" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilitiesPaymentsDueAbstract_638581430144961715" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueYearTwo_638581430144961715" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueYearThree" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueYearThree_638581430144961715" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilitiesPaymentsDueAbstract_638581430144961715" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueYearThree_638581430144961715" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueYearFour" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueYearFour_638581430144961715" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilitiesPaymentsDueAbstract_638581430144961715" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueYearFour_638581430144961715" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#wldn_FinanceLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueAfterYearFour" xlink:label="wldn_FinanceLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueAfterYearFour_638581430144961715" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilitiesPaymentsDueAbstract_638581430144961715" xlink:to="wldn_FinanceLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueAfterYearFour_638581430144961715" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDue" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDue_638581430144961715" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilitiesPaymentsDueAbstract_638581430144961715" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDue_638581430144961715" order="7" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" priority="1" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureLeasesFinanceLeasesGrossDifferenceDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99940710 - Disclosure - LEASES - Finance Leases - Gross Difference (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_LeasesAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_LeasesAbstract_6" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilitiesGrossDifferenceAmountAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilitiesGrossDifferenceAmountAbstract_638581430144971715" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LeasesAbstract_6" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilitiesGrossDifferenceAmountAbstract_638581430144971715" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDue" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDue_638581430144971715" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilitiesGrossDifferenceAmountAbstract_638581430144971715" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDue_638581430144971715" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilityUndiscountedExcessAmount" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilityUndiscountedExcessAmount_638581430144971715" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilitiesGrossDifferenceAmountAbstract_638581430144971715" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilityUndiscountedExcessAmount_638581430144971715" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiability" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiability_638581430144971715" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilitiesGrossDifferenceAmountAbstract_638581430144971715" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiability_638581430144971715" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilityCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilityCurrent_638581430144971715" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilitiesGrossDifferenceAmountAbstract_638581430144971715" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilityCurrent_638581430144971715" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/netLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilityNoncurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilityNoncurrent_638581430144971715" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilitiesGrossDifferenceAmountAbstract_638581430144971715" xlink:to="us-gaap_FinanceLeaseLiabilityNoncurrent_638581430144971715" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/netLabel" priority="1" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureCommitmentsAndVariableInterestEntitiesEmployeeBenefitPlansDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99940801 - Disclosure - COMMITMENTS AND VARIABLE INTEREST ENTITIES - Employee Benefit Plans (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#wldn_CommitmentsDisclosureAbstract" xlink:label="wldn_CommitmentsDisclosureAbstract" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_DefinedContributionPlanTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_DefinedContributionPlanTable_638581430144971715" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="wldn_CommitmentsDisclosureAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_DefinedContributionPlanTable_638581430144971715" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_RetirementPlanNameAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_RetirementPlanNameAxis_638581430144971715" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DefinedContributionPlanTable_638581430144971715" xlink:to="us-gaap_RetirementPlanNameAxis_638581430144971715" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_RetirementPlanNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_RetirementPlanNameDomain_638581430144981716" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_RetirementPlanNameAxis_638581430144971715" xlink:to="us-gaap_RetirementPlanNameDomain_638581430144981716" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#wldn_QualifiedCashOrDeferredArrangementMember" xlink:label="wldn_QualifiedCashOrDeferredArrangementMember_638581430144981716" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_RetirementPlanNameDomain_638581430144981716" xlink:to="wldn_QualifiedCashOrDeferredArrangementMember_638581430144981716" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#wldn_DefinedContributionPlanMember" xlink:label="wldn_DefinedContributionPlanMember_638581430144981716" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_RetirementPlanNameDomain_638581430144981716" xlink:to="wldn_DefinedContributionPlanMember_638581430144981716" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_DefinedContributionPlanDisclosureLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_DefinedContributionPlanDisclosureLineItems_638581430144981716" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DefinedContributionPlanTable_638581430144971715" xlink:to="us-gaap_DefinedContributionPlanDisclosureLineItems_638581430144981716" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_DefinedContributionPlanTaxStatusExtensibleList" xlink:label="us-gaap_DefinedContributionPlanTaxStatusExtensibleList_638581430144981716" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DefinedContributionPlanDisclosureLineItems_638581430144981716" xlink:to="us-gaap_DefinedContributionPlanTaxStatusExtensibleList_638581430144981716" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_DefinedContributionPlanMaximumAnnualContributionsPerEmployeePercent" xlink:label="us-gaap_DefinedContributionPlanMaximumAnnualContributionsPerEmployeePercent_638581430144981716" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DefinedContributionPlanDisclosureLineItems_638581430144981716" xlink:to="us-gaap_DefinedContributionPlanMaximumAnnualContributionsPerEmployeePercent_638581430144981716" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#wldn_DefinedContributionPlanEmployerMatchingContributionServicePeriod" xlink:label="wldn_DefinedContributionPlanEmployerMatchingContributionServicePeriod_638581430144981716" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DefinedContributionPlanDisclosureLineItems_638581430144981716" xlink:to="wldn_DefinedContributionPlanEmployerMatchingContributionServicePeriod_638581430144981716" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#wldn_DefinedContributionPlanEmployerMatchingContributionAgeOfEmployees" xlink:label="wldn_DefinedContributionPlanEmployerMatchingContributionAgeOfEmployees_638581430144981716" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DefinedContributionPlanDisclosureLineItems_638581430144981716" xlink:to="wldn_DefinedContributionPlanEmployerMatchingContributionAgeOfEmployees_638581430144981716" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_DefinedContributionPlanEmployerMatchingContributionPercentOfMatch" xlink:label="us-gaap_DefinedContributionPlanEmployerMatchingContributionPercentOfMatch_638581430144981716" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DefinedContributionPlanDisclosureLineItems_638581430144981716" xlink:to="us-gaap_DefinedContributionPlanEmployerMatchingContributionPercentOfMatch_638581430144981716" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_DefinedContributionPlanEmployerMatchingContributionPercent" xlink:label="us-gaap_DefinedContributionPlanEmployerMatchingContributionPercent_638581430144981716" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DefinedContributionPlanDisclosureLineItems_638581430144981716" xlink:to="us-gaap_DefinedContributionPlanEmployerMatchingContributionPercent_638581430144981716" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#wldn_DefinedContributionPlanEmployerMatchingContributionMaximumAmountPerEmployee" xlink:label="wldn_DefinedContributionPlanEmployerMatchingContributionMaximumAmountPerEmployee_638581430144981716" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DefinedContributionPlanDisclosureLineItems_638581430144981716" xlink:to="wldn_DefinedContributionPlanEmployerMatchingContributionMaximumAmountPerEmployee_638581430144981716" order="7" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanContributionsByEmployer" xlink:label="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanContributionsByEmployer_638581430144981716" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DefinedContributionPlanDisclosureLineItems_638581430144981716" xlink:to="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanContributionsByEmployer_638581430144981716" order="8" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureCommitmentsAndVariableInterestEntitiesVariableInterestEntitiesDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99940802 - Disclosure - COMMITMENTS AND VARIABLE INTEREST ENTITIES - Variable Interest Entities (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#wldn_CommitmentsDisclosureAbstract" xlink:label="wldn_CommitmentsDisclosureAbstract_1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#wldn_VariableInterestEntityPercentageOfCostsReimbursed" xlink:label="wldn_VariableInterestEntityPercentageOfCostsReimbursed_638581430144991710" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="wldn_CommitmentsDisclosureAbstract_1" xlink:to="wldn_VariableInterestEntityPercentageOfCostsReimbursed_638581430144991710" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#wldn_NumberOfVariableInterestEntity" xlink:label="wldn_NumberOfVariableInterestEntity_638581430144991710" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="wldn_CommitmentsDisclosureAbstract_1" xlink:to="wldn_NumberOfVariableInterestEntity_638581430144991710" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureSegmentAndGeographicalInformationSegmentInformationDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99940901 - Disclosure - SEGMENT AND GEOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION - Segment Information (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_SegmentReportingAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_SegmentReportingAbstract" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_SegmentReportingDisclosureOfEntitysReportableSegmentsAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_SegmentReportingDisclosureOfEntitysReportableSegmentsAbstract_638581430144991710" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentReportingAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_SegmentReportingDisclosureOfEntitysReportableSegmentsAbstract_638581430144991710" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_NumberOfReportableSegments" xlink:label="us-gaap_NumberOfReportableSegments_638581430144991710" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentReportingDisclosureOfEntitysReportableSegmentsAbstract_638581430144991710" xlink:to="us-gaap_NumberOfReportableSegments_638581430144991710" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureSegmentAndGeographicalInformationStatementOfOperationsDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99940902 - Disclosure - SEGMENT AND GEOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION - Statement of Operations (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_SegmentReportingAbstract" xlink:label="SegmentReportingAbstract" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfSegmentReportingInformationBySegmentTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfSegmentReportingInformationBySegmentTable_638581430145001722" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="SegmentReportingAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfSegmentReportingInformationBySegmentTable_638581430145001722" order="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2024/elts/srt-2024.xsd#srt_ConsolidationItemsAxis" xlink:label="srt_ConsolidationItemsAxis_638581430145001722" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfSegmentReportingInformationBySegmentTable_638581430145001722" xlink:to="srt_ConsolidationItemsAxis_638581430145001722" order="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2024/elts/srt-2024.xsd#srt_ConsolidationItemsDomain" xlink:label="srt_ConsolidationItemsDomain_638581430145001722" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_ConsolidationItemsAxis_638581430145001722" xlink:to="srt_ConsolidationItemsDomain_638581430145001722" order="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingSegmentsMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingSegmentsMember_638581430145001722" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_ConsolidationItemsDomain_638581430145001722" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingSegmentsMember_638581430145001722" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_CorporateNonSegmentMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_CorporateNonSegmentMember_638581430145001722" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_ConsolidationItemsDomain_638581430145001722" xlink:to="us-gaap_CorporateNonSegmentMember_638581430145001722" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis_638581430145001722" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfSegmentReportingInformationBySegmentTable_638581430145001722" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis_638581430145001722" order="2" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_SegmentDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_SegmentDomain_638581430145001722" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis_638581430145001722" xlink:to="us-gaap_SegmentDomain_638581430145001722" order="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#wldn_EnergyMember" xlink:label="wldn_EnergyMember_638581430145001722" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentDomain_638581430145001722" xlink:to="wldn_EnergyMember_638581430145001722" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#wldn_EngineeringConsultingServicesMember" xlink:label="wldn_EngineeringConsultingServicesMember_638581430145001722" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentDomain_638581430145001722" xlink:to="wldn_EngineeringConsultingServicesMember_638581430145001722" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationLineItems_638581430145001722" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfSegmentReportingInformationBySegmentTable_638581430145001722" xlink:to="us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationLineItems_638581430145001722" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ReconciliationFromSegmentTotalsToConsolidatedAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_ReconciliationFromSegmentTotalsToConsolidatedAbstract_638581430145011710" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationLineItems_638581430145001722" xlink:to="us-gaap_ReconciliationFromSegmentTotalsToConsolidatedAbstract_638581430145011710" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerExcludingAssessedTax" xlink:label="us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerExcludingAssessedTax_638581430145011710" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ReconciliationFromSegmentTotalsToConsolidatedAbstract_638581430145011710" xlink:to="us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerExcludingAssessedTax_638581430145011710" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_DepreciationAndAmortization" xlink:label="us-gaap_DepreciationAndAmortization_638581430145011710" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ReconciliationFromSegmentTotalsToConsolidatedAbstract_638581430145011710" xlink:to="us-gaap_DepreciationAndAmortization_638581430145011710" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_InterestIncomeExpenseNonoperatingNet" xlink:label="us-gaap_InterestIncomeExpenseNonoperatingNet_638581430145011710" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ReconciliationFromSegmentTotalsToConsolidatedAbstract_638581430145011710" xlink:to="us-gaap_InterestIncomeExpenseNonoperatingNet_638581430145011710" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="6" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsBeforeIncomeTaxesExtraordinaryItemsNoncontrollingInterest" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsBeforeIncomeTaxesExtraordinaryItemsNoncontrollingInterest_638581430145011710" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ReconciliationFromSegmentTotalsToConsolidatedAbstract_638581430145011710" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsBeforeIncomeTaxesExtraordinaryItemsNoncontrollingInterest_638581430145011710" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="5" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeTaxExpenseBenefit" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeTaxExpenseBenefit_638581430145011710" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ReconciliationFromSegmentTotalsToConsolidatedAbstract_638581430145011710" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeTaxExpenseBenefit_638581430145011710" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="6" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss_638581430145011710" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ReconciliationFromSegmentTotalsToConsolidatedAbstract_638581430145011710" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss_638581430145011710" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureSegmentAndGeographicalInformationSegmentAssetsDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99940903 - Disclosure - SEGMENT AND GEOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION - Segment Assets (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_SegmentReportingAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_SegmentReportingAbstract_2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ReconciliationOfAssetsFromSegmentToConsolidatedTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_ReconciliationOfAssetsFromSegmentToConsolidatedTable_638581430145021715" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentReportingAbstract_2" xlink:to="us-gaap_ReconciliationOfAssetsFromSegmentToConsolidatedTable_638581430145021715" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2024/elts/srt-2024.xsd#srt_ConsolidationItemsAxis" xlink:label="srt_ConsolidationItemsAxis_638581430145021715" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ReconciliationOfAssetsFromSegmentToConsolidatedTable_638581430145021715" xlink:to="srt_ConsolidationItemsAxis_638581430145021715" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2024/elts/srt-2024.xsd#srt_ConsolidationItemsDomain" xlink:label="srt_ConsolidationItemsDomain_638581430145021715" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_ConsolidationItemsAxis_638581430145021715" xlink:to="srt_ConsolidationItemsDomain_638581430145021715" order="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingSegmentsMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingSegmentsMember_638581430145021715" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_ConsolidationItemsDomain_638581430145021715" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingSegmentsMember_638581430145021715" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_CorporateNonSegmentMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_CorporateNonSegmentMember_638581430145021715" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_ConsolidationItemsDomain_638581430145021715" xlink:to="us-gaap_CorporateNonSegmentMember_638581430145021715" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_IntersegmentEliminationMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_IntersegmentEliminationMember_638581430145021715" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_ConsolidationItemsDomain_638581430145021715" xlink:to="us-gaap_IntersegmentEliminationMember_638581430145021715" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis_638581430145021715" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ReconciliationOfAssetsFromSegmentToConsolidatedTable_638581430145021715" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis_638581430145021715" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_SegmentDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_SegmentDomain_638581430145021715" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis_638581430145021715" xlink:to="us-gaap_SegmentDomain_638581430145021715" order="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#wldn_EnergyMember" xlink:label="wldn_EnergyMember_638581430145021715" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentDomain_638581430145021715" xlink:to="wldn_EnergyMember_638581430145021715" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#wldn_EngineeringConsultingServicesMember" xlink:label="wldn_EngineeringConsultingServicesMember_638581430145021715" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentDomain_638581430145021715" xlink:to="wldn_EngineeringConsultingServicesMember_638581430145021715" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_SegmentReportingAssetReconcilingItemLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_SegmentReportingAssetReconcilingItemLineItems_638581430145021715" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ReconciliationOfAssetsFromSegmentToConsolidatedTable_638581430145021715" xlink:to="us-gaap_SegmentReportingAssetReconcilingItemLineItems_638581430145021715" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_Assets" xlink:label="us-gaap_Assets_638581430145021715" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentReportingAssetReconcilingItemLineItems_638581430145021715" xlink:to="us-gaap_Assets_638581430145021715" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureSegmentAndGeographicalInformationDisaggregationOfRevenueDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99940904 - Disclosure - SEGMENT AND GEOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION - Disaggregation of Revenue (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_SegmentReportingAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_SegmentReportingAbstract_4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTable_638581430145031706" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentReportingAbstract_4" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTable_638581430145031706" order="1" use="optional" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ContractWithCustomerBasisOfPricingAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_ContractWithCustomerBasisOfPricingAxis_638581430145031706" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTable_638581430145031706" xlink:to="us-gaap_ContractWithCustomerBasisOfPricingAxis_638581430145031706" order="1" use="optional" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ContractWithCustomerBasisOfPricingDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ContractWithCustomerBasisOfPricingDomain_638581430145031706" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ContractWithCustomerBasisOfPricingAxis_638581430145031706" xlink:to="us-gaap_ContractWithCustomerBasisOfPricingDomain_638581430145031706" order="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_TimeAndMaterialsContractMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_TimeAndMaterialsContractMember_638581430145031706" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ContractWithCustomerBasisOfPricingDomain_638581430145031706" xlink:to="us-gaap_TimeAndMaterialsContractMember_638581430145031706" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#wldn_UnitBasedContractMember" xlink:label="wldn_UnitBasedContractMember_638581430145031706" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ContractWithCustomerBasisOfPricingDomain_638581430145031706" xlink:to="wldn_UnitBasedContractMember_638581430145031706" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_FixedPriceContractMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_FixedPriceContractMember_638581430145031706" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ContractWithCustomerBasisOfPricingDomain_638581430145031706" xlink:to="us-gaap_FixedPriceContractMember_638581430145031706" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2024/elts/srt-2024.xsd#srt_MajorCustomersAxis" xlink:label="srt_MajorCustomersAxis_638581430145031706" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTable_638581430145031706" xlink:to="srt_MajorCustomersAxis_638581430145031706" order="2" use="optional" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2024/elts/srt-2024.xsd#srt_NameOfMajorCustomerDomain" xlink:label="srt_NameOfMajorCustomerDomain_638581430145031706" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_MajorCustomersAxis_638581430145031706" xlink:to="srt_NameOfMajorCustomerDomain_638581430145031706" order="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#wldn_CommercialMember" xlink:label="wldn_CommercialMember_638581430145031706" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_NameOfMajorCustomerDomain_638581430145031706" xlink:to="wldn_CommercialMember_638581430145031706" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#wldn_GovernmentsMember" xlink:label="wldn_GovernmentsMember_638581430145031706" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_NameOfMajorCustomerDomain_638581430145031706" xlink:to="wldn_GovernmentsMember_638581430145031706" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#wldn_PublicUtilityMember" xlink:label="wldn_PublicUtilityMember_638581430145041711" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_NameOfMajorCustomerDomain_638581430145031706" xlink:to="wldn_PublicUtilityMember_638581430145041711" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis_638581430145041711" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTable_638581430145031706" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis_638581430145041711" order="3" use="optional" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_SegmentDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_SegmentDomain_638581430145041711" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis_638581430145041711" xlink:to="us-gaap_SegmentDomain_638581430145041711" order="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#wldn_EnergyMember" xlink:label="wldn_EnergyMember_638581430145041711" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentDomain_638581430145041711" xlink:to="wldn_EnergyMember_638581430145041711" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#wldn_EngineeringConsultingServicesMember" xlink:label="wldn_EngineeringConsultingServicesMember_638581430145041711" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentDomain_638581430145041711" xlink:to="wldn_EngineeringConsultingServicesMember_638581430145041711" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2024/elts/srt-2024.xsd#srt_StatementGeographicalAxis" xlink:label="srt_StatementGeographicalAxis_638581430145041711" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTable_638581430145031706" xlink:to="srt_StatementGeographicalAxis_638581430145041711" order="4" use="optional" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2024/elts/srt-2024.xsd#srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain" xlink:label="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain_638581430145041711" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_StatementGeographicalAxis_638581430145041711" xlink:to="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain_638581430145041711" order="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/country/2024/country-2024.xsd#country_US" xlink:label="country_US_638581430145041711" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain_638581430145041711" xlink:to="country_US_638581430145041711" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueLineItems_638581430145041711" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTable_638581430145031706" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueLineItems_638581430145041711" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerExcludingAssessedTax" xlink:label="us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerExcludingAssessedTax_638581430145041711" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueLineItems_638581430145041711" xlink:to="us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerExcludingAssessedTax_638581430145041711" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="5" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureSegmentAndGeographicalInformationGeographicalInformationDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99940905 - Disclosure - SEGMENT AND GEOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION - Geographical Information (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_SegmentReportingAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_SegmentReportingAbstract_3" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_NumberOfStatesInWhichEntityOperates" xlink:label="us-gaap_NumberOfStatesInWhichEntityOperates_638581430145051708" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentReportingAbstract_3" xlink:to="us-gaap_NumberOfStatesInWhichEntityOperates_638581430145051708" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureSegmentAndGeographicalInformationConcentrationRiskDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99940906 - Disclosure - SEGMENT AND GEOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION - Concentration Risk (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_SegmentReportingAbstract" xlink:label="SegmentReportingAbstract" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskTable_638581430145051708" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="SegmentReportingAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskTable_638581430145051708" order="1" use="optional" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskByBenchmarkAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskByBenchmarkAxis_638581430145051708" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskTable_638581430145051708" xlink:to="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskByBenchmarkAxis_638581430145051708" order="1" use="optional" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskBenchmarkDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskBenchmarkDomain_638581430145051708" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskByBenchmarkAxis_638581430145051708" xlink:to="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskBenchmarkDomain_638581430145051708" order="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_SalesRevenueNetMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_SalesRevenueNetMember_638581430145051708" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskBenchmarkDomain_638581430145051708" xlink:to="us-gaap_SalesRevenueNetMember_638581430145051708" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerMember_638581430145061717" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SalesRevenueNetMember_638581430145051708" xlink:to="us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerMember_638581430145061717" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerSegmentBenchmarkMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerSegmentBenchmarkMember_638581430145061717" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerMember_638581430145061717" xlink:to="us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerSegmentBenchmarkMember_638581430145061717" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskByTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskByTypeAxis_638581430145061717" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskTable_638581430145051708" xlink:to="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskByTypeAxis_638581430145061717" order="2" use="optional" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskTypeDomain_638581430145061717" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskByTypeAxis_638581430145061717" xlink:to="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskTypeDomain_638581430145061717" order="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_CustomerConcentrationRiskMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_CustomerConcentrationRiskMember_638581430145061717" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskTypeDomain_638581430145061717" xlink:to="us-gaap_CustomerConcentrationRiskMember_638581430145061717" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_GeographicConcentrationRiskMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_GeographicConcentrationRiskMember_638581430145061717" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskTypeDomain_638581430145061717" xlink:to="us-gaap_GeographicConcentrationRiskMember_638581430145061717" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2024/elts/srt-2024.xsd#srt_MajorCustomersAxis" xlink:label="srt_MajorCustomersAxis_638581430145061717" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskTable_638581430145051708" xlink:to="srt_MajorCustomersAxis_638581430145061717" order="3" use="optional" priority="3" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2024/elts/srt-2024.xsd#srt_NameOfMajorCustomerDomain" xlink:label="srt_NameOfMajorCustomerDomain_638581430145061717" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_MajorCustomersAxis_638581430145061717" xlink:to="srt_NameOfMajorCustomerDomain_638581430145061717" order="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#wldn_TopTenCustomersMember" xlink:label="wldn_TopTenCustomersMember_638581430145061717" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_NameOfMajorCustomerDomain_638581430145061717" xlink:to="wldn_TopTenCustomersMember_638581430145061717" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#wldn_LosAngelesDepartmentOfWaterAndPowerMember" xlink:label="wldn_LosAngelesDepartmentOfWaterAndPowerMember_638581430145061717" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_NameOfMajorCustomerDomain_638581430145061717" xlink:to="wldn_LosAngelesDepartmentOfWaterAndPowerMember_638581430145061717" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#wldn_DormitoryAuthorityStateNewYorkMember" xlink:label="wldn_DormitoryAuthorityStateNewYorkMember_638581430145061717" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_NameOfMajorCustomerDomain_638581430145061717" xlink:to="wldn_DormitoryAuthorityStateNewYorkMember_638581430145061717" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis_638581430145071714" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskTable_638581430145051708" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis_638581430145071714" order="4" use="optional" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_SegmentDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_SegmentDomain_638581430145071714" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis_638581430145071714" xlink:to="us-gaap_SegmentDomain_638581430145071714" order="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="wldn-20240628.xsd#wldn_EnergyMember" xlink:label="wldn_EnergyMember_638581430145071714" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentDomain_638581430145071714" xlink:to="wldn_EnergyMember_638581430145071714" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2024/elts/srt-2024.xsd#srt_StatementGeographicalAxis" xlink:label="srt_StatementGeographicalAxis_638581430145071714" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskTable_638581430145051708" xlink:to="srt_StatementGeographicalAxis_638581430145071714" order="5" use="optional" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2024/elts/srt-2024.xsd#srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain" xlink:label="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain_638581430145071714" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_StatementGeographicalAxis_638581430145071714" xlink:to="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain_638581430145071714" order="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/stpr/2024/stpr-2024.xsd#stpr_CA" xlink:label="stpr_CA_638581430145071714" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain_638581430145071714" xlink:to="stpr_CA_638581430145071714" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/stpr/2024/stpr-2024.xsd#stpr_NY" xlink:label="stpr_NY_638581430145071714" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain_638581430145071714" xlink:to="stpr_NY_638581430145071714" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskLineItems_638581430145071714" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskTable_638581430145051708" xlink:to="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskLineItems_638581430145071714" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskPercentage1" xlink:label="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskPercentage1_638581430145071714" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskLineItems_638581430145071714" xlink:to="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskPercentage1_638581430145071714" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureIncomeTaxesValuationAllowanceDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99941001 - Disclosure - INCOME TAXES - Valuation Allowance (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeTaxDisclosureAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeTaxDisclosureAbstract" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsValuationAllowance" xlink:label="us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsValuationAllowance_638581430145081709" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeTaxDisclosureAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsValuationAllowance_638581430145081709" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ValuationAllowanceDeferredTaxAssetChangeInAmount" xlink:label="us-gaap_ValuationAllowanceDeferredTaxAssetChangeInAmount_638581430145081709" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeTaxDisclosureAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_ValuationAllowanceDeferredTaxAssetChangeInAmount_638581430145081709" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureIncomeTaxesUncertainTaxPositionsDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99941002 - Disclosure - INCOME TAXES - Uncertain Tax Positions (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeTaxDisclosureAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeTaxDisclosureAbstract_1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_UnrecognizedTaxBenefitsIncomeTaxPenaltiesAndInterestAccruedAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_UnrecognizedTaxBenefitsIncomeTaxPenaltiesAndInterestAccruedAbstract_638581430145081709" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeTaxDisclosureAbstract_1" xlink:to="us-gaap_UnrecognizedTaxBenefitsIncomeTaxPenaltiesAndInterestAccruedAbstract_638581430145081709" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_UnrecognizedTaxBenefitsIncomeTaxPenaltiesAndInterestAccrued" xlink:label="us-gaap_UnrecognizedTaxBenefitsIncomeTaxPenaltiesAndInterestAccrued_638581430145081709" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_UnrecognizedTaxBenefitsIncomeTaxPenaltiesAndInterestAccruedAbstract_638581430145081709" xlink:to="us-gaap_UnrecognizedTaxBenefitsIncomeTaxPenaltiesAndInterestAccrued_638581430145081709" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureIncomeTaxesIncomeTaxExpenseBenefitDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99941003 - Disclosure - INCOME TAXES - Income Tax Expense (Benefit) (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeTaxDisclosureAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeTaxDisclosureAbstract_2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeTaxExpenseBenefit" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeTaxExpenseBenefit_638581430145091713" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeTaxDisclosureAbstract_2" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeTaxExpenseBenefit_638581430145091713" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureEarningsPerShareEpsComputationDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99941101 - Disclosure - EARNINGS PER SHARE (EPS) - Computation (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_EarningsPerShareAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareAbstract" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_NetIncomeLossAvailableToCommonStockholdersDilutedAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetIncomeLossAvailableToCommonStockholdersDilutedAbstract_638581430145091713" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetIncomeLossAvailableToCommonStockholdersDilutedAbstract_638581430145091713" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss_638581430145091713" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetIncomeLossAvailableToCommonStockholdersDilutedAbstract_638581430145091713" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss_638581430145091713" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_NetIncomeLossAvailableToCommonStockholdersBasic" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetIncomeLossAvailableToCommonStockholdersBasic_638581430145091713" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetIncomeLossAvailableToCommonStockholdersDilutedAbstract_638581430145091713" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetIncomeLossAvailableToCommonStockholdersBasic_638581430145091713" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_NetIncomeLossAvailableToCommonStockholdersDiluted" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetIncomeLossAvailableToCommonStockholdersDiluted_638581430145091713" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetIncomeLossAvailableToCommonStockholdersDilutedAbstract_638581430145091713" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetIncomeLossAvailableToCommonStockholdersDiluted_638581430145091713" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfSharesOutstandingAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfSharesOutstandingAbstract_638581430145091713" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfSharesOutstandingAbstract_638581430145091713" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfSharesOutstandingBasic" xlink:label="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfSharesOutstandingBasic_638581430145091713" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfSharesOutstandingAbstract_638581430145091713" xlink:to="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfSharesOutstandingBasic_638581430145091713" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_IncrementalCommonSharesAttributableToShareBasedPaymentArrangements" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncrementalCommonSharesAttributableToShareBasedPaymentArrangements_638581430145091713" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfSharesOutstandingAbstract_638581430145091713" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncrementalCommonSharesAttributableToShareBasedPaymentArrangements_638581430145091713" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfDilutedSharesOutstanding" xlink:label="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfDilutedSharesOutstanding_638581430145101720" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfSharesOutstandingAbstract_638581430145091713" xlink:to="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfDilutedSharesOutstanding_638581430145101720" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_EarningsPerShareDilutedAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareDilutedAbstract_638581430145101720" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareDilutedAbstract_638581430145101720" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasic" xlink:label="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasic_638581430145101720" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareDilutedAbstract_638581430145101720" xlink:to="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasic_638581430145101720" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_EarningsPerShareDiluted" xlink:label="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareDiluted_638581430145101720" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareDilutedAbstract_638581430145101720" xlink:to="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareDiluted_638581430145101720" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.willdan.com/role/DisclosureEarningsPerShareEpsAntidilutiveSecuritiesDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99941102 - Disclosure - EARNINGS PER SHARE (EPS) - Antidilutive Securities (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_EarningsPerShareAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareAbstract_1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfAntidilutiveSecuritiesExcludedFromComputationOfEarningsPerShareTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfAntidilutiveSecuritiesExcludedFromComputationOfEarningsPerShareTable_638581430145101720" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareAbstract_1" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfAntidilutiveSecuritiesExcludedFromComputationOfEarningsPerShareTable_638581430145101720" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesExcludedFromComputationOfEarningsPerShareByAntidilutiveSecuritiesAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesExcludedFromComputationOfEarningsPerShareByAntidilutiveSecuritiesAxis_638581430145101720" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfAntidilutiveSecuritiesExcludedFromComputationOfEarningsPerShareTable_638581430145101720" xlink:to="us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesExcludedFromComputationOfEarningsPerShareByAntidilutiveSecuritiesAxis_638581430145101720" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesNameDomain_638581430145101720" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesExcludedFromComputationOfEarningsPerShareByAntidilutiveSecuritiesAxis_638581430145101720" xlink:to="us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesNameDomain_638581430145101720" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_StockCompensationPlanMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockCompensationPlanMember_638581430145101720" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesNameDomain_638581430145101720" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockCompensationPlanMember_638581430145101720" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesExcludedFromComputationOfEarningsPerShareLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesExcludedFromComputationOfEarningsPerShareLineItems_638581430145111713" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfAntidilutiveSecuritiesExcludedFromComputationOfEarningsPerShareTable_638581430145101720" xlink:to="us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesExcludedFromComputationOfEarningsPerShareLineItems_638581430145111713" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_EarningsPerShareDilutedOtherDisclosuresAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareDilutedOtherDisclosuresAbstract_638581430145111713" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesExcludedFromComputationOfEarningsPerShareLineItems_638581430145111713" xlink:to="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareDilutedOtherDisclosuresAbstract_638581430145111713" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2024/elts/us-gaap-2024.xsd#us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesExcludedFromComputationOfEarningsPerShareAmount" xlink:label="us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesExcludedFromComputationOfEarningsPerShareAmount_638581430145111713" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareDilutedOtherDisclosuresAbstract_638581430145111713" xlink:to="us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesExcludedFromComputationOfEarningsPerShareAmount_638581430145111713" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://xbrl.sec.gov/ecd/role/InsiderTradingArrangements" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="995445 - Disclosure - Insider Trading Arrangements" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
</link:linkbase>
