Principal Engineer

Principal Engineer – Water Resources
Location: Primarily Remote (Based in Irvine, CA – occasional office visits required)

We are seeking a highly motivated Principal Engineer to lead complex water infrastructure projects and drive strategic growth efforts. This leadership role involves technical oversight, client management, business development, and team mentorship, all within the context of potable water, recycled water, wastewater, and stormwater systems.

This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced civil engineer who thrives in a collaborative environment and is passionate about delivering high-impact projects for public agency clients across Southern California.

Key Responsibilities:

• Project Leadership: Direct large-scale infrastructure projects from planning through construction, including pipelines, pump stations, reservoirs, wells, treatment plants, and storm drain systems

• Client Management: Build and maintain strong relationships with public agency clients; serve as a trusted advisor and main point of contact

• Business Development: Lead or support proposal development, presentations, and other strategic growth initiatives

• Team Development: Supervise and mentor engineers and technical staff, fostering growth and accountability

• Project Delivery: Manage scope, budget, scheduling, and resource allocation across multiple concurrent projects

• Technical Oversight: Ensure engineering designs meet regulatory standards and technical excellence

• Strategic Insight: Stay up to date on industry trends and regulatory changes to help guide innovation and continuous improvement

Qualifications:

• Professional Engineer (P.E.) license in the State of California – required

• 10+ years of progressive experience in civil or water resources engineering, including 5+ years in a supervisory or leadership role

• Proven experience managing infrastructure projects for public agencies, water utilities, or special districts

• Strong understanding of applicable state, federal, and local regulations and design standards

• Proficiency in MS Office Suite and civil engineering design software (AutoCAD, Civil 3D, etc.)

• Excellent communication skills, including the ability to present complex technical information to clients and stakeholders

• Experience with business development and client engagement is highly valued

Benefits:

• Competitive salary

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance

• Flexible spending accounts (FSA)

• Paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays

• 401(k) with employer match and profit sharing

• Paid parental leave

• Professional development support