Principal -Water/Wastewater

Apex is a consulting and engineering firm focused on projects that shape communities, protect the environment, and create lasting impact. We invest in your development at every stage of your career, offering autonomy and flexibility to do your best work. Our success is driven by strong leadership, a collaborative culture, and a commitment to exceptional outcomes. As we grow, we seek high-performing professionals to lead, collaborate, and push what’s possible.

About the role

The Principal for our Water/Wastewater Practice in the Northeast will play a pivotal role in leading our team, shaping the company’s strategic direction, recruiting and mentoring staff, and driving value, success, and culture. This is a special designation requiring leadership skills, technical expertise, business acumen, and a strong commitment to the company’s growth. The role impacts many aspects of the business, including client relationships, project execution, and staff development. A sign-on bonus is offered, and relocation to Massachusetts, Rhode Island, or Connecticut will be considered.

Responsibilities

• Demonstrate and practice the company’s core values.
• Foster a culture of growth, innovation, collaboration, and continuous learning.
• Lead and inspire teams of engineers, scientists, project managers, and support staff to deliver high-quality project results.
• Recruit, mentor, and develop junior and mid-level staff, promoting career advancement.
• Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with new and existing clients and partners.
• Support implementation of business practices and processes.
• Lead projects from development through completion, including defining schedules, scopes, budgets, QA/QC, and risk management.
• Champion QA/QC procedures and policies.
• Understand contract risks, terms, and professional liability matters; mitigate risks in consultation with leadership.
• Serve as a subject matter expert in specific practice areas.
• Address complex situations related to project execution, client demands, fiscal management, and business development.

Project Execution

• Initiate projects: Prepare proposals/scopes of work and review/approve project budgets.
• Complete project initiation documents, including scope, budget, and schedule.
• Manage project implementation: Ensure adherence to company operating procedures and timely completion.
• Keep clients informed of project status and provide support to project teams.
• Delegate tasks appropriately to project managers and staff.
• Coordinate with peers and subconsultants to address scheduling and staffing conflicts.
• Supervise interdisciplinary teams, including project managers, subcontractors, and subconsultants.
• Provide technical advice and contribute to project recommendations.
• Ensure high-quality deliverables through excellent writing and adherence to QA/QC guidelines.
• Meet regularly with clients to discuss projects, evaluate performance, and identify cross-selling opportunities.
• Track project budgets and ensure timely invoicing per company policy.
• Negotiate amendments and change orders; consult leadership on sensitive matters.

Business Development

• Identify and pursue new opportunities, including competitive bids and cross-selling.
• Solicit new clients and projects through client interactions and proposal development.
• Set up meetings with clients and participate in proposal development and interviews.
• Proactively cross-sell services and collaborate with other Principals and Project Managers.
• Manage the sales process for existing clients, including large or multi-project relationships.
• Prepare proposals, lead proposal teams, negotiate fees, and present to potential clients.

Staff Development

• Lead, mentor, and develop staff, recognizing strengths and areas for improvement.
• Manage and evaluate direct reports, including performance reviews and career path development.
• Mentor and coach staff at all levels, with a focus on project managers.
• Oversee on-boarding, off-boarding, workload management, and time/expense approval.
• Assist in recruitment, interviews, and on-boarding of new hires.
• Identify strategic hires to support company goals and value creation.

Requirements

• BS or MS Degree in Civil or Environmental Engineering or a relevant discipline.
• 15+ years of experience in the water/wastewater industry.
• Registered Professional Engineer or relevant certification; ability to obtain by reciprocity preferred.

Benefits

• Company-subsidized medical and dental insurance.
• Company-paid life, short-term, and long-term disability insurance.
• 401k match, tuition assistance, and performance-based bonuses.
• Cross-training and opportunities to work on a variety of projects.
• Collaboration with industry-leading professionals.

Pay

Annual expected pay range: $180,000 USD - $220,000 USD.