Sovereign is seeking a highly experienced and motivated Assistant Program Manager for Coastal and Estuarine Restoration and Resilience to join our established cutting edge team.

The ideal candidate should have a strong background in coastal and estuarine science and restoration projects, possess exceptional project management skills, and demonstrate leadership, speaking and outreach capabilities. The Assistant Program Manager will work closely with and report directly to the Program Manager to plan, execute, and oversee coastal and estuarine restoration and resilience initiatives, ensuring successful project delivery while maintaining compliance with regulatory standards and environmental guidelines.

This Assistant Program Manager position is being created as part of a long-term leadership planning process, allowing the company to grow and thrive within this established service area. The position will be a blend of “doer/seller” functions, including business development, technical execution of work, outreach and mentoring of junior and new staff.

The Program Manager will be committed to mentor the Assistant Program Manager in terms of technical knowledge, business development, outreach, and management.

Currently, Sovereign is focusing on living shorelines, tidal marsh restoration and rejuvenation, tidal and non-tidal stream and river stabilization, fish passage and dam removal, nearshore reefs creation, reinforced and natural dunes creation, wave energy dampening systems, and living retrofits of existing “gray” features. These focus areas may be modified, as appropriate, based upon the technical skill set and client contacts brought in by the selected Assistant Program Manager.

Responsibilities:

• Assist the Program Manager in the sighting, site evaluation, vulnerability assessments, concept development, master planning, prioritization scoring, design permitting, construction, construction management/oversight, monitoring, outreach and education, community involvement, and grant acquisition.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including ecologists, engineers, contractors, regulatory agencies, and community stakeholders, to ensure smooth project progression.
• Prepare and review project proposals, budgets, schedules, and technical reports, and provide recommendations for improvements.
• Manage project timelines and milestones, ensuring adherence to project deadlines and goals.
• Conduct site visits and field inspections to monitor project progress, identify potential issues, and implement corrective actions, as needed.
• Participate and/or manage field work, primarily pertaining to work associated with design/build projects.
• Stay updated with relevant technical advancements, environmental regulations, permitting, and compliance requirements.
• Assist in the development and implementation of strategies to promote sustainable coastal restoration practices.
• Provide technical expertise and guidance to project teams, offering solutions to complex challenges that may arise during the project lifecycle.
• Support the development of partnerships and collaborations with local communities, government agencies, and non-profit organizations to foster a cooperative approach to coastal restoration and resilience.
• Participate in stakeholder engagement activities, public meetings, and workshops to communicate project objectives and outcomes effectively.
• Mentor and provide guidance to junior team members, fostering their professional growth and development.
• Develop personal skills and markets benefitting both professional development and Sovereign under the mentorship of the Program Manager.

Requirements:

• Master’s degree in environmental science, ecology, coastal management, civil engineering, or related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in coastal, estuarine, and/or watershed sciences, with a proven track record of successful project acquisition, implementation, and management.
• Strong understanding of coastal plain ecosystems, system-based and NNBF habitat restoration, and related environmental principles.
• Familiarity with regulatory frameworks and permits related to restoration and environmental protection.
• Demonstrated project management skills, including the ability to develop project plans, manage budgets, and meet deadlines.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, for effective collaboration and stakeholder engagement.
• Willingness and demonstrated ability to present at technical functions, socialize at professional events, and contribute to technical committees.
• Ability to assist clients in grant development and acquisition.
• Leadership capabilities with experience in leading and motivating cross-functional teams.
• Ability to work independently, make informed decisions, and solve problems in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Willingness to learn on the job from others.
• Willingness to travel for site visits and project-related activities, as needed.

Expectations:

The expectation of this position is the hiring of a technically strong, experienced, mid-level individual who will be trained, mentored, and provided the opportunity for rapid growth in terms of both technical ability, business development skills, and management. The Assistant Program Manager will have the ability and support to focus his/her technical entrepreneurial vision(s) and make them reality.

Benefits:

• Competitive salary and benefits package,
• Opportunity to work on impactful coastal restoration projects,
• Collaborative and supportive work environment,
• Professional development opportunities,
• Contribution to environmental conservation and community engagement,

Employment at Sovereign is contingent upon the results of a Drug & Alcohol screening test and a pre-placement medical evaluation that determines candidate’s ability to capably and safely perform the proposed job duties. Candidates must present documentation that confirms identity and eligibility for employment in the United States.

Salary will be commensurate with experience. These full-time positions offer an excellent benefits package including: group healthcare program, vision and dental coverage plan, life and AD&D insurance plans, short & long-term disability programs, other supplemental insurance programs, 401(k) retirement plan, tuition reimbursement program, paid holidays and paid vacation. A relocation package will not be offered for this position.

Sovereign Consulting Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer.