Water​/Wastewater Department Manager

Job Description

Michael Baker's Santa Ana office is seeking the next leader of our Water/Wastewater Department. With decades of local success to build upon, this is a great opportunity for a Water/Wastewater professional to take the next step in their career and lead our team of talented engineers and designers working on a variety of water, wastewater, and recycled water infrastructure projects.

Our department leader will set the path for growth in the local market while working collaboratively with the regional and national Water team to collectively take on larger client needs. The role includes a mix of people, clients, and project responsibilities. Experience leading a thorough business development process, providing guidance to and supporting the development of a team, and ensuring quality project execution are key characteristics of the person who will excel in this role.

Key responsibilities include:

• Leading people, communication, projects, and teams.
• Client service and business development.
• Technical expertise.

Qualifications include:

• B.S. Degree in Engineering, or related discipline.
• Professional Engineer registration in California (P.E.).
• 15+ years in engineering and/or project management with 3+ years supervising engineering personnel in Water/Wastewater.
• Experience with team leadership, business development, and project execution for a variety of public works projects.
• Motivated self-starter, versatile and interested in working on a variety of projects while leading the Water/Wastewater Team.
• Excellent technical writing and communication skills.
• A proven track record of responsibility and experience interfacing with clients is preferred.
• Participation and/or leadership role in industry organizations is desired.

Michael Baker International fosters a culture of open, transparent communication and collaboration among our team members. We are committed to creating an environment where honest dialogue is encouraged and continuous learning is supported through robust in-house training and development programs. Team connection is strengthened through monthly office lunches, outdoor meetups, and meaningful recognition programs. We are also deeply committed to giving back to our communities through our MBImpact program, which includes local volunteer efforts such as food banks, beach cleanups, and children's initiatives, as well as global partnerships with organizations like Bridges to Prosperity and Water for People.

Michael Baker International supports a flexible work environment. This position offers a hybrid schedule that includes both in-office collaboration and remote work. The Department Manager is expected to maintain a regular presence in the Santa Ana office to support team leadership, client engagement, and project delivery, while also benefiting from the flexibility to work from home as appropriate.

The approximate compensation range for this position is $185,000 to $230,000. This compensation range is a good faith estimate for the position at the time of posting. Actual compensation is dependent upon factors such as education, qualifications, experience, skillset, and physical work location.

We offer a comprehensive benefits package including:

• Medical, dental, vision insurance
• 401k Retirement Plan
• Health Savings Account (HSA)
• Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
• Life, AD&D, short-term, and long-term disability
• Professional and personal development
• Generous paid time off
• Commuter and wellness benefits