Area Lead - Water and Wastewater

About the role

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

• 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
• 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
• 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
• 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

• Bachelor's degree in Environmental Sciences, Engineering, Construction or closely related field is required
• PE license in California required
• 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

Physical demands and work conditions

• 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
• 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

Pay and 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