Water Infrastructure - Engineering Program Manager

Join a landmark infrastructure project that will shape California's water future for generations. We are building a proposed 1.5 million acre-foot off-stream surface water storage facility -- California's 8th largest reservoir and 2nd largest off-stream reservoir.

This multi-billion dollar project will capture stormwater flows from the Sacramento River to serve communities, farms, and the environment across the state.

Located 10 miles west of Maxwell in rural Glenn and Colusa counties, this climate-resilient water storage system is fast-tracked for operational completion by 2032.
Designated by the Governor and California Legislature as critical infrastructure, the project has received special judicial streamlining and permit expediting.

Position Overview

We are seeking an exceptional engineering leader to serve as Conveyance Projects Manager and Engineering Office Lead (EOL). This is a critical management-level position within our engineering and construction management team, serving as an owner's representative during the design and construction of a generational water infrastructure project.

In this strategic role, you will establish the engineering foundation for a new public water agency, developing engineering processes, standards, and systems that will guide the organization for decades to come. You will lead all conveyance projects including the $1.6 billion Pumping and Generating package, oversee project hydraulics, and play a key role in CMAR contractor procurement and oversight.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership (40% of role):

• Serve as key member of the Engineering and Construction executive team
• Act as owner representative for the Sites Authority
• Develop and implement strategies for efficient on-schedule and on-budget project delivery
• Participate in program delivery strategy development and long-term planning
• Ensure alignment with organizational goals, public interests, and Authority values

Engineering Management and Project Delivery (60% of role):

• Lead conveyance design and construction projects including MSPG package
• Oversee full project hydraulics and integration of engineering disciplines
• Establish engineering standards, business processes, tools, and systems
• Develop and oversee Engineering Quality Management plan
• Lead collaboration between CMAR contractors, environmental consultants, and design teams
• Assist in procurement of MSPG CMAR contractor (beginning early 2026)
• Develop comprehensive design review processes and risk mitigation approaches
• Oversee strategy for CADD, BIM, and engineering document management
• Establish design manager and technical expert resource pools
• Ensure compliance with all codes, standards, and regulations

Required Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in engineering or related field from accredited institution
• Advanced degree (Master's or higher) preferred

Experience:

• Minimum 15 years of progressively responsible experience in construction management for large-scale infrastructure projects
• Minimum 8 years in management/leadership roles
• Experience with public water projects and state/federal regulations highly desirable
• Familiarity with CMAR and other alternative delivery methods required

Licenses & Certifications:

• Professional Engineer (PE) license strongly preferred
• Project Management Professional (PMP) or similar certifications preferred

Core Competencies:

• Extensive knowledge of engineering management principles for large-scale infrastructure (particularly water/wastewater)
• Proficient in engineering contract administration, QA/QC processes, and construction services
• Strong understanding of cost estimating, scheduling, and cost control techniques
• Ability to develop effective procurement strategies and manage CMAR delivery methods
• Knowledge of California codes, regulations, and building standards
• Skilled in risk assessment and mitigation for large-scale construction projects
• Proficiency with engineering software (CADD, BIM, project controls, scheduling)
• Strong leadership with ability to build, manage, and motivate high-performing teams
• Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills
• Strategic thinking with proven track record managing large budgets and resources

Preferred Qualifications

• Master's degree in Civil Engineering, Water Resources, or related field
• Professional Engineer (PE) license in California
• Experience with conveyance systems, pump stations, and hydraulic facilities
• Experience developing engineering standards and quality management systems
• Background in owner/agency role (versus contractor perspective)
• Experience with multi-billion dollar infrastructure programs
• Familiarity with California water rights and environmental permitting
• Experience establishing organizational systems and processes

Work Arrangement

Current Phase: Remote work acceptable with required monthly in-person attendance at board meetings in Maxwell, CA, and other meetings as needed (primarily within California).

Future Requirements: Within 12 months, the position may require relocation to the Maxwell, CA area or daily on-site presence during construction phases.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $220,000.00 - $235,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Flexible schedule
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Work Location: Hybrid remote in Maxwell, CA 95955

Salary : $220,000 - $235,000