Senior Project Manager (Surface Water)

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AECOM is seeking a Senior Project Manager (Surface Water) to lead delivery of complex water resources projects and manage a small team of engineers and technical staff in our Sacramento office. In this role, you will own project execution, provide day-to-day people leadership, and support business development activities with key West Coast water clients. You will work closely with the Engineering Manager and other senior leaders to advance our Surface Water practice across the Pacific West Division.

Key Responsibilities

Project Management and Delivery

• Lead planning and delivery of surface water and water-infrastructure projects including dams and reservoirs, levees and canals, flood risk reduction and resilience projects, watershed and river restoration, and conveyance and tunnel systems.
• Manage scope, schedule, budget, risk, and quality for assigned projects, ensuring disciplined execution and alignment with AECOM standards.
• Coordinate multidisciplinary project teams and subconsultants, providing clear direction and resolving issues to keep work on track.

Client Engagement and Business Development

• Serve as the primary point of contact for selected clients and projects, building strong, trust-based relationships through clear communication and reliable delivery.
• Lead and support business development activities including opportunity identification, capture planning, proposal development, and interview preparation for targeted pursuits.
• Collaborate with the Engineering Manager and market leaders to develop client account strategies and position AECOM for follow-on and new work with key agencies such as Reclamation, DWR, USACE, and other West Coast water agencies.

People Leadership

• Supervise a small group of engineers and technical staff, providing day-to-day direction, coaching, mentoring, and performance feedback.
• Support staffing and resource planning for your projects, and coordinate with the Engineering Manager on broader workload balancing.
• Help develop emerging talent by providing meaningful stretch assignments, technical guidance, and opportunities for client exposure.

Technical Excellence

• Provide technical oversight and QA/QC for analyses, design work, plans, specifications, cost estimates, and technical reports for water resources infrastructure projects.
• Apply sound engineering judgment to evaluate alternatives, manage project risks, and ensure compliance with applicable standards and regulatory requirements.
• Contribute to the growth of technical capabilities within the team through knowledge sharing and collaboration with the broader AECOM Surface Water practice.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering or related field and 8+ years of relevant experience delivering water resources or water-infrastructure projects, or demonstrated equivalency of experience and/or education.
• California Professional Engineer (PE) license or ability to obtain within 6 months of hire.

Preferred Qualifications

• 15+ years of civil engineering experience related to water resource projects.
• Prior experience providing technical direction and/or formal supervision to other engineers or technical staff.
• Demonstrated experience working with Reclamation, DWR, USACE, or other West Coast water agencies.
• Strong track record managing complex projects, communicating with clients, and supporting or leading project pursuits.

 

• Sponsorship is not available now or in the future for this role.

About AECOM 

AECOM is proud to offer comprehensive benefits to meet the diverse needs of our employees. Depending on your employment status, AECOM benefits may include medical, dental, vision, life, AD&D, disability benefits, paid time off, leaves of absences, voluntary benefits, perks, flexible work options, well-being resources, employee assistance program, business travel insurance, service recognition awards, retirement savings plan, and employee stock purchase plan. 

AECOM is the global infrastructure leader, committed to delivering a better world. As a trusted professional services firm powered by deep technical abilities, we solve our clients’ complex challenges in water, environment, energy, transportation and buildings. Our teams partner with public- and private-sector clients to create innovative, sustainable and resilient solutions throughout the project lifecycle – from advisory, planning, design and engineering to program and construction management. AECOM is a Fortune 500 firm that had revenue of $16.1 billion in fiscal year 2025. Learn more at aecom.com. 

What makes AECOM a great place to work 

You will be part of a global team that champions your growth and career ambitions. Work on groundbreaking projects - both in your local community and on a global scale - that are transforming our industry and shaping the future. With cutting-edge technology and a network of experts, you’ll have the resources to make a real impact. Our award-winning training and development programs are designed to expand your technical expertise and leadership skills, helping you build the career you’ve always envisioned. Here, you’ll find a welcoming workplace built on respect, collaboration and community—where you have the freedom to grow in a world of opportunity. 

As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we believe in your potential and are here to help you achieve it. All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.