Senior Dams Practice Leader

Engineering – Oakland, California – Salary: USD 150,000.00 – 250,000.00 annually

Overview

GEI’s California Water Resources practice is growing. The Oakland, CA office seeks a Senior Dams Practice Leader to assist with complex projects in Northern California and nationwide. The role leads engineering planning, design, and construction management for dams, spillways, outlet works, gates, water conveyance structures, powerhouses, and pump stations, and supports ongoing inspection, evaluation, design, and construction observation of hydroelectric facilities.

Responsibilities

• Contribute to setting the overall strategy and vision for the West Region Dams Practice.
• Identify, develop, and pursue opportunities with new and existing clients nationwide.
• Lead proposals and support other GEI offices with professional services.
• Plan, coordinate, and supervise design teams in scheduling and budgeting water infrastructure projects such as dams, spillways, outlet works, and flood control structures.
• Develop construction drawings, technical specifications, and bid documents related to dams and appurtenant facilities.
• Provide technical input and oversight in areas such as geotechnical and structural design of concrete hydraulic structures, embankment dam design, and roller‑compacted concrete dams.
• Prepare technical reports, letters, memoranda, and presentations.
• Collaborate with senior project managers and technical staff across the company.
• Travel to project sites and other offices as required, including overnight travel.

Minimum Qualifications

• B.S. Degree in Civil Engineering or Geology; M.S. Degree preferred.
• 15 years of experience in planning, design, project management, and construction of dams and/or hydropower projects.
• Registered professional Civil Engineer in California (other states a plus).
• Ability to work with limited supervision; organized; energetic and enthusiastic; and capable of building productive relationships within the firm and with project teams.
• Experience managing projects with $1M–$20M contract value (or $5M–$100M construction value).
• Understanding of regulatory and permitting environment in California, including the California Department of Water Resources, Division of Safety of Dams, and federal agencies (USACE, FERC).
• Excellent written and oral communication skills; ability to work well in a team atmosphere.
• Willingness to travel to site locations as needed, including field assignments.
• Valid driver’s license.

Preferred Qualifications

• Demonstrated experience in pursuing and winning opportunities for water clients in the West region.
• Strong reputation in the California market for dams and hydropower services.
• Over twenty years of experience in civil engineering and water resources fields.
• Specialization in water resource engineering with strong analysis and design experience on large civil works projects such as dams, pipelines, levees, canals, and pump stations.
• Ability to supervise and direct junior staff.
• Experience with project management concepts and software.
• Proficiency with computer applications, including Microsoft software and structural/hydraulic engineering programs.
• Knowledge of California water institutions and issues is desirable.

Benefits

• Market‑competitive compensation with eligibility for an annual performance bonus.
• Comprehensive benefits program: medical, dental, vision, life, disability, and more.
• Well‑being program and paid parental leave.
• Hybrid work schedules and cell phone stipends.
• GEI University with continuing education assistance and tuition reimbursement.
• Professional development and advancement opportunities.
• Support and financial rewards for publication awards, professional dues, and licenses.
• Paid holidays and generous paid time off program.
• Recognitions and rewards.
• GEI‑funded profit sharing and 401(k).
• Opportunity to be an owner and shareholder.

Physical Requirements

The role requires occasional physical activity, including standing, walking, climbing, and lifting from floor to waist height. Light to medium physical effort is expected; no intensive or hazardous physical demands. Visual precision (near and far vision) and hearing are required. The position involves occasional travel, including overnight stays, and may require working in environments with varied temperatures, dust, or uneven surfaces.

GEI is an equal opportunity employer, including disabled and veterans.