Senior Climate Adaptation Manager — Equity & Resilience

denver; Denver (CO); Hybrid; USD 101,000 - 134,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Lifelong pension after 5 years

457B Retirement Plan

PTO 140 hours + holidays + personal +

Wellness Day

Volunteer day

Medical/Dental/Vision plans

Job summary

City and County of Denver is seeking a Manager of Climate Adaptation to provide strategic leadership to the CASR team, guiding multi-year initiatives that strengthen Denver’s environments against climate risks. This role coordinates cross-departmental work with community partners, consultants, and agencies to advance data-driven, equity-centered adaptation.

You will lead staff, manage budgets, monitor outcomes, and report to executive leadership while championing environmental justice and

Qualifications

• At least 5+ years of experience leading and managing professional teams, including setting strategic direction and supervising staff.
• Strong track record of managing complex climate, environmental, adaptation or infrastructure programs.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage a high performing Climate Adaptation team by setting clear priorities, implementing effective work plans, and ensuring accountability for results.
• Support the development, implementation, and updates of the Climate Plan while tracking Climate Protection Fund investments to ensure compliance and impact.
• Utilize climate data, vulnerability assessments, and risk analyses into actionable policies and programs.
• Lead cross departmental coordination to embed adaptation considerations across city-wide projects.
• Monitor program outcomes and budgets, deliver clear reports and briefings to leadership and stakeholders, and oversee consultant and interagency contracts to ensure quality deliverables, precise scopes, timely execution, and effective budget management.
• Strengthen partnerships with community-based organizations, regional agencies, utilities, and research institutions to co-create adaptation solutions and leverage external expertise.
• Champion racial equity and environmental justice, ensuring adaptation initiatives reduce disproportionate climate burdens on under resourced communities.
• Provide exceptional leadership by coaching, mentoring, and supporting staff in continuous improvement and growth; formally evaluate employee performance, document progress, and deliver meaningful feedback while fostering an innovative, impact driven work environment.
• Other duties as assigned.

Skills

Leadership experience

Climate program management

Stakeholder engagement

Data-driven decision making

Budget management

Job description

City and County of Denver is seeking a Manager of Climate Adaptation to provide strategic leadership to the CASR team, guiding multi-year initiatives that strengthen Denver’s environments against climate risks. This role coordinates cross-departmental work with community partners, consultants, and agencies to advance data-driven, equity-centered adaptation.

You will lead staff, manage budgets, monitor outcomes, and report to executive leadership while championing environmental justice and