Hydropower Project Manager

GHD; Los Angeles (CA); Hybrid; USD 108,158 - 180,263; Full time

Job summary

GHD is seeking an experienced Project Manager for their hydropower division in Los Angeles. The candidate should have a robust background in engineering, with a special focus on hydropower systems. Responsibilities will include managing multiple projects, preparing budgets and proposals, and ensuring compliance with quality and safety standards.

This role offers a hybrid work model, requiring three days in the office. A competitive salary range between $108,158 and $180,263 will be offered based on experience.

Qualifications

• 15+ years of experience in engineering, with at least 10 years as a project manager.
• Experience in dams and hydropower preferred.
• Strong technical skills in hydropower disciplines including structural, civil, and geotechnical engineering.

Responsibilities

• Manage multiple hydropower projects simultaneously within budget.
• Prepare budgets, proposals, tenders, and technical reports.
• Drive project closeout activities and contribute to successful client proposals.

Skills

Project management

Technical writing

Risk management

Client relationship management

Budget management

Multi-disciplinary teamwork

Education

Licensed PE, SE, GE, PG or PEG in California

Job description

Job Description

There’s no pledge more important than the one we make to look after our environment, and we’re committed to helping you do exactly that! Join us as we strive to ensure a sustainable future for our communities and the world we live in.

Become part of our global network of skilled engineers, scientists, auditors, planners and environmental specialists, all working together to leave this world better than we found it. GHD is dedicated to driving bold, sustainable, and profitable growth by expanding and investing in our most strategically important clients.

Who are we looking for?

The ideal candidate is a motivated, self‑starter, capable of managing multiple projects simultaneously. This candidate will have the desire to develop clients and help foster growth in the Hydropower clients for GHD in the US West. Strong technical skills within hydropower disciplines—structural engineering, civil engineering, geotechnical engineering, geology, electrical engineering, hydro‑mechanical engineering—are important as this role will require knowledge and oversight of dams and hydropower projects. Knowledge of financial tools and strong organizational skills is key to the success of a multi‑disciplined project manager.

Primary Responsibilities

• Project and time management skills, including preparation of budgets, work programs, proposals, tenders, technical submissions and reports
• A commitment to maintaining a healthy and safe workplace
• Completion of tasks for multiple projects within budget, to committed programs to support the timely completion of projects
• Contribution to the preparation of successful proposals to clients
• Ongoing compliance with GHD’s Quality, Environmental Management and Occupational Health Safety & Rehabilitation Systems Managers, Client Relationship Managers, Market Leaders, Service Line Leaders and other key people
• Delivering successful project outcomes
• Actively participate in client relationship management, business development, development of proposals, reports and technical analysis
• Manage project risks, deviations, and client issues proactively, using agreed controls and escalation pathways to support disciplined, no‑surprises delivery
• Drive project closeout activities, including complete documentation, lessons learned, continuous improvement actions, and effective handoff across teams and client stakeholders
• Prepare and review technical and project deliverables, including reports, client updates, and regulatory documentation, ensuring consistency, accuracy, and readiness for internal approval and external submission
• Manage day‑to‑day project execution, including performance, risks, issues, changes, and dependencies, while coordinating internal teams and external partners to maintain delivery, quality, and commercial outcomes
• Provide regular communications and reporting for active projects; keep clients and internal stakeholders informed on progress, financial performance, regulatory obligations, and upcoming milestones
• Coordinate vendors, subcontractors, and partner teams, ensuring consistent standards for field execution, site access requirements, health and safety expectations, and quality outcomes

Required Qualifications

• A minimum of 15 years’ experience in engineering, with a minimum of 10 years’ as a project manager. Experience in dams and hydropower is a plus
• Licensed PE, SE, GE, PG or PEG, in the state of CA or means to obtain license in 6 months
• Developed skills and understanding of hydropower structures
• A clear understanding of how the entire hydropower system works end to end, water to wire process (Reservoir‑intake‑penstock‑turbine‑generator‑tailrace)
• Experience related to permitting, FERC licensing, grid flexibility, pumped hydro, plant control or automation is a plus
• Experience related to existing hydropower modernization, refurbishment or upgrades is a strong plus
• Technical competency in technical writing with computer skills using MS Office Suite
• Experience working in multi‑disciplined teams, including geologists, structural engineers, hydraulic engineers, hydro‑mechanical and electro‑mechanical engineers
• Proven ability to lead complex, multi‑disciplinary projects while building strong client relationships and delivering high‑value outcomes
• Strong track record in managing budgets, aligning stakeholders, and supporting business growth through successful project delivery

Salary will be determined by candidate's experience and estimated range is $108,158 to $180,263.

Hybrid Work: Our workplace thrives on a hybrid model, combining in‑office collaboration and flexibility. Join us in the office, three days a week, to contribute, connect, and excel in our vibrant environment.

The use of artificial intelligence (AI) in recruiting is just getting started and may be used during the process to improve efficiency and fairness. Your application may be reviewed by both AI and our hiring team. While AI supports some steps through the process, all final hiring decisions are made by humans.