Senior - Principal Engineer
Job description
About the role
You will lead complex wastewater collection system hydraulic evaluations and master planning initiatives that define the technical direction of project solutions. You will own the development and application of advanced hydraulic modeling using specialized software to assess system performance and resiliency. You will guide the preparation of capital improvement programs that align with client regulatory obligations and long-term service goals. You will mentor engineering staff and junior modelers to elevate the technical capacity and quality of project deliverables. You will serve as a trusted technical advisor, interpreting data and regulations for clients during critical decision points. You will coordinate with cross-functional teams to integrate hydraulic findings into broader project scopes and timelines. You will contribute to business development by supporting proposal efforts and demonstrating thought leadership in water resource management. You will uphold rigorous standards for quality assurance and peer review to ensure accurate and defensible engineering outcomes.
Key facts
What you'll do
Analyze wastewater collection networks using hydraulic modeling software such as Infoworks ICM, AquaTwin Sewer, and SewerGems to evaluate system performance under varied conditions.
Perform infiltration and inflow analysis, flow monitoring, and risk assessments to identify vulnerabilities and opportunities for system improvements.
Develop master plans and capital improvement programs that address current system deficiencies and future service demands.
Prepare detailed technical reports and regulatory compliance documents to support permitting and agency review processes.
Utilize CAD, GIS, and Microsoft Access to integrate spatial and attribute data into planning and design workflows.
Lead and coordinate project activities for teams across California and Oregon, ensuring alignment with client expectations and deadlines.
Provide training and mentorship to staff on wastewater collection evaluation methods, modeling techniques, and best practices.
Serve as a project manager directing hydraulic modeling and master planning efforts for senior level and other engineering staff.
Conduct QA/QC reviews of engineering deliverables produced by team members to maintain accuracy and consistency.
Engage directly with clients to understand objectives, present findings, and deliver high-level customer service.
Support marketing and proposal development activities by contributing technical expertise and project insights.
Maintain awareness of evolving regulations and industry standards to ensure collection system designs remain compliant and resilient.
Contribute to business growth activities by participating in technical discussions that strengthen client relationships and project opportunities.
Document methodologies, analyses, and decisions to create clear records that support future work and knowledge transfer.
Requirements
Hold a Bachelor's degree in Civil or Environmental Engineering from an accredited institution.
Possess a minimum of 8 years of experience focused on Wastewater Collection System Planning and Hydraulic Modeling.
Demonstrate excellent verbal and written communication skills in professional written documents and presentations.
Show proficiency with CAD, GIS, Microsoft Access, and hydraulic modeling software such as InfoWater Pro.
Maintain an active Professional Engineer (PE) license in the State of California; licensure in other states where the firm practices may also be considered.
Ability to process accurate engineering calculations independently and prepare clear, technically sound reports.
Proven capacity to manage multiple priorities and deadlines in a fast-paced project environment.
Strong attention to detail to ensure accuracy, consistency, and compliance in technical deliverables.
Effective interpersonal skills to collaborate with multidisciplinary teams and interact professionally with clients and stakeholders.
Nice to have
Hold a Master's degree in Civil or Environmental Engineering.
Demonstrate proven ability to manage complex projects with competing demands and tight schedules.
Show skill in summarizing technical information using precise grammar, punctuation, and spelling for reader-friendly clarity.
Bring experience with direct client interaction and formal proposal writing.
Show high proficiency with InfoWater PRO and experience with Aquanet software.
Commit to maintaining professional competency through ongoing education, participation in professional society meetings, and reading current industry publications.
Practical notes
This position may require travel to other offices and/or client offices, including occasional evening and overnight assignments.
This role operates on a hybrid schedule with 3 days in the office and 2 days remote.
Work is based in Davis, California, and may be eligible for alternate office locations within California and Oregon based on business needs.