Northern California Business Development Leader; Water Business Group

At HDR, our employee-owners are fully engaged in creating a welcoming environment where each of us is valued and respected. We empower everyone to bring their authentic selves and novel ideas to work every day. By fostering a culture of inclusion throughout our company and within our communities, we constantly ask ourselves:
What is our impact on the world?

Watch Our Story:

Every role at HDR contributes to our mission of changing the world for the better. Read on to learn how you can help make great things possible not only in your community but around the world.

Water is more than a resource; it is a shared responsibility. As part of the Water Business Group, you will help shape how communities manage water for generations to come. From delivering safe drinking water and treating wastewater responsibly to developing sustainable water supplies and protecting lives and property through flood control, your work will support public health, environmental sustainability, and infrastructure resilience.

You will collaborate across disciplines to solve complex challenges with bold thinking and technical excellence.

Working in partnership with the Northern California Water Business Group (WBG) Management, the Bay Area Water Client Development Leader strategically develops and directs business development opportunities for clients requiring drinking water, wastewater and water resources planning and design consulting services throughout northern California, focusing on the San Francisco Bay Area. The role also works with all Business Groups in Northern California to create a strategy that drives the BGX initiatives, bringing more of HDR to our clients.

Duties include maintaining and expanding existing client relationships; identifying, establishing, and nurturing relationships with new target clients; developing market networks; positioning the firm for project pursuits that result in client selection; and leading technical teams in proposal and interview preparation.

As a Business Development Leader, you will be the connector, strategist, and visionary who:

• Leads with purpose:
  Co‑create annual growth strategies with leadership to meet ambitious financial goals and expand our regional footprint.
• Builds meaningful relationships:
  Identify and engage with key decision‑makers across public and private sectors. You will be the face of HDR in the Bay Area.
• Collaborates across disciplines:
  Partner with technical and market leaders to craft winning strategies and proposals that resonate with clients.
• Leverages data and insights:
  Use HDR’s business tools to track progress, analyze trends, and make informed decisions.
• Drives innovation in storytelling:
  Work with marketing to develop compelling materials that showcase our expertise and elevate our brand.
• Champions client success:
  Serve as a trusted advisor and project principal, ensuring client satisfaction and long‑term partnerships.
• Mentors and inspires:
  Share your knowledge and passion with emerging professionals, helping shape the next generation of leaders.
• Represents HDR boldly:
  Attend industry events, speak on panels, and build your personal brand while promoting HDR’s mission.

• Bachelor’s degree in a professional, engineering, or related field
• Maintain a professional or engineering registration or certificate or have related technical experience
• Proven business development success in the water consulting industry
• Existing network of local clients is beneficial
• Experienced in the development and management of diverse teams
• Willingness to travel including overnight trips
• Commitment to HDR’s core values of quality work and continuous improvement
• An attitude and commitment to being an active participant of our employee‑owned culture is a must

* LI-MO1

• A minimum of 15 years relevant industry experience
• Demonstrated "self‑starter" with a history of completing projects with limited oversight
• Deep knowledge of the A/E/C industry's standard approach to procurement of professional services
• Demonstrated ability to motivate and inspire others
• Demonstrated ability to build a network of clients and…