Director of Public Works
Director, Engineering Practice Growth
Location: Orange County
Location: $180,000 - $210,000
About the Company
Our client is a multidisciplinary engineering consulting firm providing civil engineering, water resources,stormwater, environmental, and construction support services to public and private-sector clients. The firm is known for delivering practical, client-focused solutions while fostering long-term relationships with the communities and agencies it serves.
As the organization continues to expand, it is seeking a strategic leader to help drive growth, strengthen client partnerships, and build upon an established foundation of successful project delivery.
Position Overview
The Director will play a key leadership role in growing the firm's existing business throughout Southern California. This individual will focus on developing client relationships, identifying new opportunities, expanding service offerings, mentoring staff, and helping shape the long-term strategic direction of the organization.
The ideal candidate is a respected engineering leader with a strong network, proven business development success, and the ability to lead teams while driving sustainable growth.
Key Responsibilities
Business Development & Market Growth
- Lead efforts to expand the firm's presence across Southern California.
- Develop and execute growth strategies aligned with company goals.
- Identify and pursue new business opportunities with municipalities, public agencies, developers, and private-sector clients.
- Cultivate and strengthen executive-level client relationships.
- Lead pursuit strategies, proposal development, interviews, and contract negotiations.
- Collaborate with leadership on strategic planning and revenue growth initiatives.
Leadership & Team Development
- Mentor and develop project managers, technical leaders, and emerging staff.
- Foster a culture centered on collaboration, accountability, and client service.
- Support recruiting, retention, and succession planning efforts.
- Help attract and develop top engineering talent.
Client Relationship Management
- Serve as a trusted advisor to key clients and stakeholders.
- Maintain a visible presence in industry organizations and professional associations.
- Expand existing client relationships and identify opportunities for cross-selling services.
- Represent the firm at conferences, industry events, and community functions.
Operational Leadership
- Support practice and office performance, including revenue goals, resource planning, and profitability.
- Work closely with project managers to ensure successful project execution.
- Help establish priorities that align business growth with operational excellence.
- Assist leadership with organizational planning and long-term market positioning.
Qualifications
Required
- Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Environmental Science, Planning, or a related field.
- 15+ years of consulting experience with increasing levels of leadership responsibility.
- Demonstrated success generating revenue and developing new client relationships.
- Experience managing teams, business units, or technical practices.
- Strong understanding of the Southern California infrastructure and consulting market.
- Excellent communication, presentation, and relationship-building skills.
Preferred
- Professional Engineer (PE) or other relevant professional credential.
- Established network of municipal, utility, agency, or private-sector clients.
- Experience leading strategic growth initiatives and managing P&L performance.
- Proven track record of expanding market presence and winning new work.
FAQs
Congratulations, we understand that taking the time to apply is a big step. When you apply, your details go directly to the consultant who is sourcing talent. Due to demand, we may not get back to all applicants that have applied. However, we always keep your resume and details on file so when we see similar roles or see skillsets that drive growth in organizations, we will always reach out to discuss opportunities.
Yes. Even if this role isn’t a perfect match, applying allows us to understand your expertise and ambitions, ensuring you're on our radar for the right opportunity when it arises.
We also work in several ways, firstly we advertise our roles available on our site, however, often due to confidentiality we may not post all. We also work with clients who are more focused on skills and understanding what is required to future-proof their business.Â
That's why we recommend registering your resume so you can be considered for roles that have yet to be created.Â
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