Client Manager - Water Services

About the role

You will own the end to end client relationship for municipal water projects in the Northeast, acting as the primary strategic advisor to large, complex public sector partners. You will translate technical capabilities into client value by shaping project scope, driving deliverable quality, and ensuring alignment with municipal priorities. You will lead cross functional teams that integrate consulting, engineering, operations and maintenance to execute projects from initial assessment through long term service agreements. You will leverage deep municipal sector knowledge to anticipate client needs, remove barriers, and position Woodardcurran as the trusted partner for critical water infrastructure. You will champion innovative delivery models, including design build and design build operate solutions, to address funding, regulatory, and operational constraints. You will build and mentor internal teams, providing technical guidance, career development, and clear communication across disciplines. You will contribute directly to the firm's mission by advancing clean water, environmental protection, and community health through visible, accountable leadership.

Key facts

What you'll do

Lead the development of municipal water accounts across New England by identifying strategic opportunities and aligning Woodardcurran capabilities with client priorities.

Own the client relationship for a portfolio of drinking water, wastewater, stormwater, and water resources projects, ensuring satisfaction and repeat business.

Translate complex technical and regulatory requirements into clear, actionable project strategies for municipal stakeholders.

Collaborate with operations and maintenance teams to design and deliver sustainable solutions that meet long term performance goals.

Partner with the Integrated Solutions Division to advance design build and design build operate projects that differentiate our value to clients.

Develop and manage project scopes, schedules, and budgets while maintaining rigorous attention to technical quality and regulatory compliance.

Establish and nurture relationships with key public sector stakeholders, including utility managers, engineers, and elected officials.

Champion the use of innovative delivery methods that align project risk and reward with municipal funding and operational realities.

Provide subject matter expertise during bid and proposal efforts, ensuring responses reflect client needs and Woodardcurran capabilities.

Mentor junior team members, fostering a collaborative environment that supports professional growth and knowledge sharing.

Monitor emerging trends, regulations, and technologies affecting municipal water systems and advise clients accordingly.

Identify and pursue new business opportunities that expand Woodardcurran's presence in the Northeast municipal water market.

Serve as a visible leader at client sites and within the firm, demonstrating commitment to safety, inclusivity, and operational excellence.

Act as a bridge between technical teams and client decision makers, ensuring alignment from concept through implementation and closeout.

Requirements

Candidates must hold a bachelor's degree in engineering, environmental science, or a related technical field.

You must possess a valid Professional Engineer license or be eligible for licensure in at least one U.S. state.

You must have a minimum of seven years of progressively responsible experience in water sector project delivery or public sector engineering.

You must have at least five years of demonstrated experience managing teams of three or more professionals.

You must have direct experience working with municipal clients, including utilities, public works departments, or regulatory agencies.

You must be comfortable working within complex regulatory frameworks such as the Clean Water Act and Safe Drinking Water Act.

You must have a strong understanding of water treatment processes, distribution systems, and collection infrastructure.

You must demonstrate excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present to senior municipal leadership.

Nice to have

Preferred experience with design build and design build operate project delivery methods in the water sector.

Familiarity with operations and maintenance business models and long term service agreements.

Experience supporting integrated solutions delivery for municipal water and wastewater challenges.

Practical notes

Travel: up to 20% within the New England and Mid-Atlantic region.

Candidate

Location: Open to remote work locations; preferred New England.