Surface & Storm Water Practice Area Lead

We are a water-focused engineering consulting firm, certified as a Great Place to Work based on feedback from our community of over 250 team members. We ranked top three in the AEC Advisors 2021 and 2022 Diversity Index Top Firms and were recognized as one of Fortune’s Best Workplaces in Consulting and Professional Services in 2023 and 2024. Since 1990, our mission has been to be the water firm of choice for both our clients and our team.

Over the years we have built upon that mission and now integrate a host of high-quality services in groundwater, water supply, water and wastewater treatment, water and wastewater infrastructure, stormwater, recycled water, construction management, and operations technology from our multiple locations in the west. As a team, we work with our clients to understand their true needs. Our long-term relationships are based on integrity, partnership, and high-value solutions.

In 2025 and beyond, West Yost is advancing water resources for future generations and living our core values every day.

Compensation range: $150,250 - $210,050. Based on our Irvine, CA office location. (West Yost uses geographic salary differentials that would apply for candidates in other regions).

** This is a Hybrid role with 3 days in the office and 2 days remote.**

Business Sector:
Stormwater and Groundwater

Position

Reports to:

Business Sector Leader

This role will have close collaboration with executive leaders and other practice area leads across the firm.

BASIC JOB FUNCTION

West Yost is seeking an entrepreneurial and collaborative leader to grow and guide our Surface and Storm Water practice across California. This is a unique opportunity to shape the future of a practice area that is essential to resilient communities and integrated water management.

Our Surface and Storm Water Practice Area Lead (PAL) will lead a team of passionate, multidisciplinary professionals within a company known for its values-driven culture, technical excellence, and strong client partnerships. At West Yost, we prioritize long-term relationships—with our clients and our people. We are 100% employee-owned and deeply committed to fostering an environment of trust, mentorship, and continuous learning.

This role is ideal for a technically strong and relationship-savvy professional who is motivated to make a lasting impact. The PAL will be empowered to build the practice with support from West Yost’s leadership, access to our robust network of sector leaders and clients, and resources to expand their influence regionally. This position also offers a clear path to future advancement, including potential progression to a Business Sector Leader role, for individuals who demonstrate initiative, vision, and integrity.

In addition to technical and project leadership, the PAL will partner with West Yost’s Business Sector Leader managing the operational and financial health of the practice. This includes planning and managing growth, developing new and existing markets, and driving consistent revenue performance for the practice.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND ACCOUNTABILITIES

Practice Leadership and Development

• Provide leadership, direction, and mentorship to a team of engineers and technical staff across multiple offices.
• Foster a collaborative, growth-oriented team environment, focused on technical excellence and client service.
• Balance team workload, track resourcing needs, and support recruiting and onboarding of new staff.
• Guide quality control/quality assurance efforts and support technical skill development aligned with career progression.
• This role provides the opportunity to shape culture, drive innovation, and leave a meaningful legacy within a growing, future-focused practice.

Business Management, Development and Strategic Growth

• Develop and implement an annual business plan aligned with company strategic goals.
• Lead efforts to expand the Surface and Storm Water portfolio, identifying emerging markets, trends, and client needs.
• Identify and pursue stormwater and surface water project opportunities across California.
• Strengthen and expand client relationships with public agencies and regional…