Surface Water Program Manager

Surface Water Program Manager

Michael Baker International's Surface Water Group provides innovative consulting, planning, and engineering solutions for the entire spectrum of NPDES and MS4 permit needs. We have proven experience in providing a full range of professional services from planning through design and construction. Protection and management of water resources starts at the watershed level and follows the movement of water through urban and agricultural areas, streams, lakes and reservoirs, water distribution systems, wastewater collection systems, and water/wastewater treatment plants.

We are seeking a highly proficient Surface Water Program Manager with expertise in California stormwater regulations, permits, and compliance programs. Joining an industry-leading team responsible for developing and implementing stormwater programs, this role is designed for a strategic, people-centered leader who thrives in a fast-moving environment and can confidently oversee a large, diverse team while managing a portfolio of projects and key client relationships.

You will support some of the largest stormwater permittees in the state, ensuring exceptional project delivery, operational excellence, and regulatory compliance across a dynamic workload.

This is a high-impact position for someone who enjoys balancing strategic thinking with relationship development and who can remain adaptable in the face of shifting client needs and regulatory landscapes.

Key Responsibilities

Project & Operational Management

• Lead, mentor, and develop a team of direct and indirect reports across multiple service lines.
• Oversee a high-volume portfolio of construction stormwater-related projects, ensuring quality, timeliness, and regulatory compliance.
• Manage project financials, including forecasting, budgeting, and profitability tracking.
• Optimize resource allocation through collaboration with Surface Water Managers and Practice Leaders.

Client Service & Business Development

• Cultivate and maintain trusted adviser relationships with key clients.
• Serve as a primary point of contact, responding quickly to evolving client needs.
• Lead project pursuits, including proposal development and interview presentations.
• Actively participate in professional organizations, conferences, boards, and technical committees to strengthen industry presence and secure new work.
• Identify emerging industry needs and contribute to thought leadership through technical articles and presentations.
• Cross-market additional company services to enhance client value and expand opportunities.

Technical Expertise

• Provide guidance on California stormwater regulations, including MS4 permits, industrial stormwater requirements, and construction stormwater compliance.
• Support the development of innovative solutions to meet evolving regulatory and client needs.

Qualifications

Required

• Prior project management experience with increasing levels of responsibility.
• Experience with California stormwater regulations, permits, and compliance programs.
• Strong skills in proposal development, project financial management, and staff coaching.
• Demonstrated adaptability and comfort working in fast-paced, dynamic environments.
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to convey complex information clearly to clients, regulators, and internal teams.

Preferred

• Familiarity with the California Construction General Permit (Order No. 2022-0057-DWQ).
• QSD and QSP certifications strongly desired, or ability to obtain within 3 months of hire.
• Professional Engineer (PE) license.
• Experience engaging with industry organizations and supporting business development initiatives.

What We're Looking For

A leader who:

• Brings strong technical judgment and strategic thinking.
• Thrives in a dynamic environment with shifting priorities.
• Enjoys developing people and building high-performing teams.
• Communicates clearly with clients, regulators, and internal teams while establishing lasting relationships.
• Identifies opportunities for innovation and continuous improvement.
• Is ready to be a visible, active member of the Surface Water community.

Compensation

The approximate compensation range for this position is $138,000 to $189,000. This compensation range is a good faith estimate for the position at the time of posting. Actual compensation is dependent upon factors such as education, qualifications, experience, skillset, and physical work location.

Benefits

We offer a comprehensive benefits package including:

• Medical, dental, vision insurance
• 401K Retirement Plan
• Health Savings Account (HSA)
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
• Life, AD&D, short-term and long-term disability
• Professional and personal development
• Generous paid time off
• Commuter and wellness benefits
• Project Manager Bonuses

Workplace Flexibility

Whether you want to work fully in the office or in a hybrid model, we accommodate a variety of preferences. We recognize our employees face many factors when it comes to selecting the best work location, and we are passionate about providing options and flexibility.