Design Practice Area Director

Design Practice Area Director

WSC is seeking a Design Practice Area Director to oversee multi-disciplinary teams in the successful delivery of a diverse range of water, wastewater, and recycled water projects. The Design Practice at WSC consists of talented engineering and design drafting staff working on projects throughout California, Oregon, and Washington.

The role includes managing client relationships, leading project teams, mentoring entry-level professionals, and collaborating on company wide strategy. The ability to bring existing client relationships, drive business development at the regional level, and lead marketing pursuits is a strong plus.

The ideal candidate will be based in, or willing to relocate to, one of our office locations:
San Luis Obispo, CA;
Folsom, CA;
Laguna Hills, CA;
Ontario, CA;
San Diego, CA; or Portland, OR. Southern California or Folsom offices are preferred. We offer a flexible hybrid work model. Occasional travel throughout California and the Pacific Northwest may be required.

Salary Range: $170,000 to $225,000, based on experience and qualifications.

• Lead multi-disciplinary teams to successful delivery of water infrastructure design, and/or program management of medium- to large-scale water, recycled water and/or wastewater systems.
• Lead teams in the development of tools, standards, processes, and best practices that improve the quality and efficiency of design work.
• Oversee client service management and strengthen existing client relationships through exceptional project delivery, development of new client relationships, and identification of future business opportunities.
• Lead project pursuits including proposal development and interview preparation.
• Lead project workshops, facilitate concept development, evaluation alternatives, and drive decision making.
• Mentor entry-level and mid-career design professionals in best practices, including assisting with goal setting.
• Monitor performance metrics for the design practice and develop strategies for achieving long-term goals that allow the practice to grow and thrive.
• Prepare high-quality written work products including technical memoranda, technical reports, drawings, specifications, and contract documents.
• Travel within California and potentially throughout CA, WA and/or OR.

• Strong values that align with our people-first values.
• Bachelor's degree in Civil/Environmental Engineering or related engineering field;
  Master's degree preferred.
• P.E. registration in California or ability to obtain through reciprocity within 6 months of hire.
• Experience delivering successful and collaborative project performance that achieves clients' goals, including cost-effective, sustainable, energy-efficient, operator-friendly, and innovative solutions.
• 15+ years of experience in planning, design and/or construction of water, wastewater and/or recycled water facilities.
• Demonstrated understanding and definition of project goals and requirements.
• Understanding of business development fundamentals within the municipal public water sector, and ability to bring strong relationships with municipal clients in Southern or Northern California.
• Team-first mindset; enjoys collaboration, learning, teaching, and creating a positive team dynamic.
• Active participation in related professional associations and knowledge of current industry trends.
• Desire to operate with freedom and accountability, and willingness to embrace innovative thinking to solve project challenges.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills, including preparation of proposals, presentations, technical memoranda, reports, drawings, specifications, and contract documents.
• Knowledge of sustainable solutions and alternative project delivery methods is a plus.
• Ability to serve as a dedicated, responsive client service partner, demonstrating clear communication and problem-solving skills.
• Passionate about mentoring and advocating within the team.

We make it easy for you to enjoy the work you love by providing a competitive salary, 401(k) plan, ESOP, employer‑paid short‑ and long‑term disability, holiday pay, generous paid time off, tuition reimbursement, fitness and health benefits.