Program Manager - Waste

Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising; Woodcliff Lake (NJ); On-site; USD 120,000 - 170,000; Full time

Job summary

HDR is hiring a Program Manager in the Waste sector to lead a large, multidisciplinary infrastructure program across New York and New Jersey. You will coordinate engineering, estimating, scheduling, and construction delivery, working with HDR and subconsultant staff to meet contract requirements.

You will communicate with client executives, mentor staff, and promote a collaborative, performance-driven culture. Domestic travel across the NY/NJ metro area is expected in this role.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or closely related field required.
• Experience in program management for large infrastructure programs with high capital values.
• Experience with alternative delivery methods (DB, PDB, CMAR).

Responsibilities

• Lead large multidisciplinary infrastructure program with high technical complexity.
• Plan, direct and monitor all aspects of program execution and governance.
• Oversee HDR and subconsultant services; ensure contract compliance and resources.
• Monitor team performance and establish QA/QC processes.
• Identify risks and assist client with resolution and decision making.
• Develop processes to drive efficiencies and accountability.

Skills

Leadership

Program management

Communication

Cross-functional leadership

Public speaking

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Construction Management, Planning, Sciences, Business Administration, or a closely related field

Tools

PMIS

CMIS

Scheduling software

Cost control tools

Document management systems

Job description

At HDR, we specialize in engineering, architecture, environmental and construction services. While we are most well‐known for adding beauty and structure to communities through high‑performance buildings and smart infrastructure, we provide much more than that. We create an unshakable foundation for progress because our multidisciplinary teams also include scientists, economists, builders, analysts and artists. That's why we believe diversity is our greatest strength. HDR is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace and an affirmative action employer.

Watch our 'About Us' video

We believe that the way we work can add meaning and value to the world. That ideas inspire positive change. That coloring outside the lines can illuminate fresh perspectives. And that small details yield important realizations. Above all, we believe that collaboration is the best way forward.

We believe waste is more than management, it’s also an opportunity to innovate. As part of our Waste sector, you’ll help shape solid waste infrastructure and environmental stewardship. With a top‑tier industry ranking, our team delivers comprehensive solutions that span waste planning, remediation, engineering and implementation. You’ll collaborate closely with clients and communities to design sustainable, cost‑effective systems that contribute to cleaner environments and healthier communities. This isn’t just a job, it’s a chance to drive meaningful changes in the waste industry and build a legacy of sustainability.

Program Manager will be an executive level team member on the front line with the client, program management teams and construction teams to help shape delivery of the Waste program across New York / New Jersey. You are a seasoned leader with top‑notch communication skills. You are comfortable leading multi‑disciplinary teams necessary to complete complex projects ranging from engineering, estimating, scheduling, project controls and construction delivery - the entire life cycle.

Primary Responsibilities

• Assume leadership responsibilities for large multidisciplinary infrastructure program with a high‑degree of technical complexity.
• Plan, direct and monitor all aspects of program execution. This may involve the development and implementation of strategies, a governance structure, best practices, and business processes aimed at successful program delivery.
• Oversee all services provided by large program consultant team comprised of HDR and subconsultant staff. Ensure compliance with all contract terms and secure the resources required to deliver all services specified in the contract scope.
• Monitor team performance and establish robust QA/QC program to ensure all services provided meet client expectations.
• Anticipate and identify potential issues and risks that may impact program implementation, and assist the client with problem solving, issues resolution, risk mitigation and timely decision making.
• Develop and apply processes and tools to drive efficiencies, control outcomes and promote accountability.

Build client relationship

• Contribute to HDR’s program management growth strategy.
• Mentor and train staff while executing the program.
• Perform other program management related duties as needed
• Travel when needed across NY/NJ metro area

Preferred Qualifications

• Preference given to local candidates
• Experience working for an A/E/C consulting firm
• Professional registration, license or certification in NY/NJ

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Construction Management, Planning, Sciences, Business Administration, or a closely related field
• Program management experience consistent with one of the following requirements:
• A minimum of three (3) years of program management experience in a deputy role to the Program Manager for the delivery of one or more programs, with a cumulative capital value of $200 million or more, or;
• A minimum of five (5) years of program management experience as a Project Manager or Project Controls Manager for the delivery of one or more programs, each with a capital value of $200 million or more, or;
• A minimum of ten (10) years of project management experience as a Project Manager directing a multi‑disciplinary team for the delivery of at least two (2) projects, each with a capital value of $50 million or more
• Strong leadership skills with experience building a cohesive team culture and managing team members in various locations.
• Excellent communication skills. Comfortable presenting to client executives and in front of a large audience in a public setting
• Management experience with the implementation of projects or programs using alternative and collaborative delivery methods, including design‑build (DB), progressive design‑build (PDB), and/or construction management at‑risk (CMAR)
• Familiar with the various tools used to manage large programs - PMIS, CMIS, scheduling, cost control, document management, risk management, asset management, dashboard analytics, etc.
• An attitude and commitment to being an active participant of our employee‑owned culture is a must

What We Believe

HDR is our company. Together, we build on each other's life experiences and perspectives to make great things possible every day. This shapes our collaborative culture, encourages organizational trust and connects us closer to the clients and communities we serve.

Our Commitment

As employee owners, we all have a role in creating an inclusive environment where each of us is welcomed, valued, respected and empowered to bring our authentic selves to work every day.

Our eight Employee Network Groups (Asian Pacific, Black, Hispanic/Latino(a), LGBTQ+, People with Disabilities, Veterans, Women, Young Professionals) help create a sense of belonging and foster a supportive environment where everyone is empowered to engage and contribute. Each group has an executive sponsor and is open to all employees.

Primary Location

United States-New Jersey-Woodcliff Lake

Industry

Waste

Schedule

Full-time

Employee Status

Regular

BusinessClass : Program Management

Job Posting

Aug 21, 2026

At HDR, we are committed to the principles of employment equity.

We consider all qualified applicants, regardless of criminal histories, arrest and conviction records.