Water/Wastewater Practice Lead | San Diego, CA

Our client is seeking an experienced Water/Wastewater Practice Lead to establish, lead, and grow a regional water resources practice based in San Diego. This is a senior leadership opportunity for a commercially minded engineer with strong client relationships and a passion for building high-performing teams. The organisation delivers complex infrastructure solutions across water, wastewater, and utilities, supporting public-sector clients with technically robust and sustainable outcomes.

responsibilities.

• Lead, manage, and expand a multi-disciplinary water and wastewater practice focused on treatment facilities, pumping systems, and large-diameter conveyance projects

• Develop and execute a clear growth strategy for the local and regional water resources practice

• Operate with a high level of autonomy in directing business development, staffing, and project delivery

• Build, maintain, and strengthen long-term client relationships with municipal and utility stakeholders

• Provide strategic leadership through goal setting, business planning, and operational oversight

• Ensure projects are delivered profitably and transitioned effectively to qualified technical staff

• Recruit, mentor, and develop technical and managerial talent within the practice

• Foster open communication, collaboration, and a positive team culture

• Act as a trusted advisor to clients, proactively addressing project challenges and opportunities

qualifications.

• Minimum of 15 years’ experience in water and wastewater engineering, including design and project management

• Experience mentoring staff and leading teams in a professional services environment

  Proven ability to manage projects financially and allocate resources effectively

• Established client relationships with municipalities and public agencies in the San Diego region

• Demonstrated success in business development and winning new work

• Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering or a closely related discipline

  Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills

• Professional Engineer (P.E.) license

salary.

$150,000 – $260,000 + performance-based bonus eligibility

This role offers a unique opportunity to shape and grow a water and wastewater practice with significant autonomy and long-term upside. The successful candidate will play a key role in strategic growth, client engagement, and team development, with the potential to progress into senior ownership or equity-based leadership as the practice expands.

If you are looking for a senior leadership role where you can build a practice, strengthen client partnerships, and leave a lasting impact on water infrastructure delivery, apply today.

apply.