Area Lead - Water and Wastewater

BKF Engineers; Santa Barbara (CA); On-site; USD 185,000 - 230,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Bonus program

Profit sharing

401(k)

Paid time off

Paid holidays

Education reimbursement

Job summary

BKF Engineers seeks an Area Lead for Water & Wastewater to drive operations, project delivery, and client growth across California. The role guides teams, manages budgets, and ensures diligent coordination with regional leadership.

Requirements include a minimum of 10 years in engineering with project management focus, strong communication, and a California PE license. Travel to BKF locations and client sites may be required.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 10 years in engineering with a focus on project management.
• Proven track record leading teams and managing multiple projects.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Proficiency with project management software and tools.
• Demonstrated experience in business development and client relationships.

Responsibilities

• Oversee day-to-day operations across offices and teams in the area.
• Lead engineering teams to deliver projects on time and within budget.
• Serve as Project Manager on multiple large projects or a client portfolio.
• Develop and maintain client relationships to support growth.
• Lead development and pursuit of new business opportunities.
• Implement quality assurance and control processes throughout the project lifecycle.
• Identify risks and develop mitigation strategies for successful delivery.
• Supervise project managers, engineers, and staff; mentor teams.
• Communicate area performance and staffing updates to leadership.

Skills

Project leadership

Team supervision

Communication skills

Problem solving

Attention to detail

Education

Bachelor's degree in Environmental Sciences / Engineering

PE license in California

Tools

Project management software

Job description

BKF is a multi‑service infrastructure consulting firm providing civil engineering and surveying services across California, the Pacific Northwest, and beyond. With offices throughout California and the Portland area, BKF has served transportation, water resources, land development, government, and federal clients for over 110 years.

At BKF, you'll find a unique opportunity to grow your career with intention. Our culture values professional autonomy, innovation, and meaningful collaboration across offices. We are proud to have received the Great Place to Work certification for the second year in a row.

The Area Lead - Water & Wastewater (W/WW) is responsible for managing operations, client account management, project delivery, and guiding team performance within a defined geographic area. Reporting to the Regional Lead - Water & Wastewater, this role ensures alignment with regional goals and firm‑wide standards. The Area Lead plays a hands‑on role in project execution, client engagement, and team coordination, serving as a key liaison between technical staff, other Area and Discipline Leads and regional leadership.

Responsibilities

Operations:

• Oversee day‑to‑day operations across offices and teams within the area.
• Coordinate with office leaders to ensure consistent application of firm policies and procedures.
• Monitor area performance metrics and escalate issues to the Regional Lead as needed.
• Responsible for meeting or exceeding key performance indicators including, but not limited to, utilization and project profitability.
• Oversee project budgets and resource allocation, ensuring efficient use of staff and financial resources.
• Identify opportunities for process improvements and operational efficiencies.
• Conduct regular team meetings to review project progress and resolve outstanding issues.
• Responsible for meeting or exceeding performance KPIs including, but not limited to, utilization and project profitability.

Project Delivery & Client Development:

• Lead engineering teams to deliver projects on time and within budget.
• Serve as Project Manager on multiple large projects or a portfolio of clients within a defined geography or practice areas.
• Act as the primary point of contact for clients, addressing concerns and ensuring satisfaction.
• Develop and maintain client relationships to support business growth and new opportunities.
• Take lead role in developing and securing new business opportunities. Play a key role in achieving overall Water Market sales and bookings goals.
• Implement quality assurance and control processes throughout the project lifecycle.
• Identify risks and develop mitigation strategies to ensure successful delivery.

Team Leadership & Development:

• Supervise project managers, engineers, and technical staff, providing guidance and support.
• Foster a positive and inclusive team culture across offices in the area.
• Support onboarding, training, and development of staff.
• Identify and mentor emerging talent and provide input on performance reviews.

Strategic Support:

• Maintain regular communication with the Regional Lead and office leaders.
• Provide updates on area performance, staffing, and client activity.
• Participate in strategic planning and marketing efforts to promote the firm's capabilities in the region.

Qualifications

• A minimum of 10 years of experience in the engineering industry with a focus on managing projects.
• Strong track record of successfully leading teams and managing multiple projects simultaneously.
• Exceptional communication skills, both verbal and written.
• Proficiency in project management software and tools.
• Demonstrated experience in business development and client relationship management.
• Excellent problem‑solving abilities and a proactive approach to project management.
• Keen attention to detail and commitment to quality.
• Bachelor's degree in Environmental Sciences, Engineering, Construction or closely related field is required.
• PE license in California required.

Physical Demands: Must be able to regularly talk, hear and operate a computer, keyboard and mouse and occasionally lift, pull/push and carry up to 20 pounds with accommodations.

Work Conditions: Exposure to constant or intermittent sounds at a low or moderate level consistent with an office setting. Exposure to high‑stress, fast‑paced, deadline‑oriented environment. Travel to other BKF locations and client sites may be required.

Compensation & Benefits

• The typical base salary range for this position is $185,000 - $230,000 annualized, depending upon skills, experience, education, and geographical location. This is a salary position paid biweekly.
• Competitive salaries, end‑of‑year bonuses, profit sharing, and 401k.
• Generous paid time off packages.
• 9 Paid Holidays.
• Education reimbursement, paid annual dues for professional and societal organizations.
• BKF offers competitive and award‑winning benefits and perks. To learn more click here.

BKF Engineers provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.