Principal

Haley & Aldrich; Walnut Creek (CA); On-site; USD 175,000 - 240,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Performance-based bonus program

Sign-on bonus opportunity

Job summary

Haley & Aldrich is seeking a Principal to lead resilience projects and grow client relationships. This position requires 15+ years of experience, a degree in geology or engineering, and strong communication skills.

The role offers a salary range of $175,000 - $240,000 annually, participation in a performance-based bonus program, and opportunities for a sign-on bonus. Join us in delivering measurable outcomes for our clients!

Qualifications

• 15+ years of experience on resilience projects in consulting.
• Established client relationships in the West region.
• Professional registration (e.g., PE, PG) preferred.

Responsibilities

• Drive growth and lead interdisciplinary teams.
• Develop and maintain strategic client relationships.
• Manage financial success across client accounts.

Skills

Client relationship management

Stakeholder engagement

Climate resilience knowledge

Consulting expertise

Strong communication skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in geology or engineering

Job description

Find your path and enjoy the journey at Haley & Aldrich. With us, you’ll tackle clients’ most meaningful challenges in the built and natural environments – and, in turn, build stronger communities. You’ll work with teams of passionate colleagues, driven by a commitment to technical excellence and continuous learning.

We are looking to add new talent to our growing team! We are currently seeking an experienced and accomplished Principal to drive growth, lead high‑performing interdisciplinary teams, cultivate deep client relations, and position our resilience practice for success. This full‑time, local hybrid position is located in Seattle, WA or Walnut Creek, CA or any of our West Coast offices: Portland, OR; Oakland, CA; San Jose, CA; Costa Mesa, CA; San Diego, CA; Honolulu, HI; or Maui, HI.

This role offers an exciting opportunity in delivering strategic growth and driving meaningful outcomes for our clients by working with highly skilled professionals on diverse and complex projects.

Duties/Responsibilities

• Lead and grow the company’s resilience portfolio by refining the market strategy, develop and maintain strategic client relationships, identify new business opportunities, and drive significant revenue growth in the resilience practice.
• Lead pursuit efforts for both new and existing clients, guide proposal development, and negotiate favorable contracts that align with our strategic goals and ensure financial health.
• Oversee the execution of projects, serving as a trusted advisor to address client challenges and deliver quality results. Collaborate with an interdisciplinary project team of scientists, planners and engineers to ensure a seamless client experience throughout the project life cycle.
• Build and lead high‑performing teams by fostering a collaborative environment and mentoring emerging talent to reach their full potential. Provide growth opportunities to develop future leaders within the organization.
• Ensure financial success across client accounts, overseeing areas like sales cost, collections, and profitability. Establish sound contracts that balance client needs with financial terms and risk management. Track and manage the client engagement pipeline to align with strategic goals.
• Actively participate in relevant professional organizations, representing the company, providing thought leadership, and influencing industry trends.
• Ensure that all work is performed in accordance with company and client Health & Safety protocols.
• Demonstrate our foundational safety behaviors.

Skills/Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in geology, civil engineering, environmental engineering, or a science‑related discipline.
• 15+ years of experience working on resilience projects, with proven experience in a consulting or professional services environment.
• Established client relationships in the West region, with preference for the Pacific Northwest and Bay Area, CA.
• Professional registration (e.g., PE, PG) as applicable.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with proficiency in preparing, reviewing, and editing technical reports to meet client and project objectives.
• Demonstrated business acumen and consulting expertise to identify client challenges, proactively address risks, and promote cross‑selling of services across the company.
• Deep understanding of climate resilience, adaptation and infrastructure challenges.
• Strong stakeholder management skills, including the ability to engage senior internal and external audiences, influence decision‑makers, and drive change.
• Market‑facing credibility, strategic thinking, and a strong client and account focus, with the ability to translate direction into measurable delivery and outcomes.
• Experience presenting at industry conferences or actively participating in professional organizations.
• Familiarity with local and regional codes, regulations, and market trends relevant to our services.

Preferred Skills

• Advanced degree in geology, civil engineering, environmental engineering, or a science‑related field.

The salary range for this position on the West Coast is $175,000 - $240,000 annually. Actual compensation will be based upon a variety of factors such as education, related work experience, certificates, skills, and current market conditions. Haley & Aldrich reviews salary ranges each quarter to assess competitiveness with the market.

This role is eligible to participate in the company's performance‑based bonus program. This bonus program is based on overall company performance and results achieved compared to peers. This role is eligible to receive a sign‑on bonus.

Haley & Aldrich is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applications will receive consideration for employment without regard to gender, race, age, disability, veteran, or any other legally protected status.