Director / Principal - Aquatic Resources Practice

Rincon Consultants

  • San Luis Obispo, CA
  • $150,000-190,000 per year
  • Permanent
  • Full-time
  • 2 days ago
Rincon Consultants is seeking a strategic, Director- or Principal-level aquatic resources professional with expertise in CEQA/NEPA and/or natural resources permitting to lead the continued growth of our aquatic resources practice. This is a unique opportunity to join a collaborative, entrepreneurial firm and play a key role in expanding Rincon’s aquatic resources services while leading high-impact projects across California. The ideal candidate is a self-starter who excels in business development, client relationships, and team leadership. This position can be based out of any of our 13 California offices, with a preference for candidates located in the Bay Area, Sacramento, or Central Coast regions.While this role may offer flexible work arrangements that can include a mix of in-office and remote work, our changing business needs will ultimately determine our level of remote-work flexibility. Additionally, to promote in-person collaboration and client teaming, we prioritize hiring those who reside within 50 miles of a Rincon office, which currently includes: Carlsbad, Fresno, Los Angeles, Monterey, Oakland, Palm Springs, Riverside, Sacramento, San Luis Obispo, San Diego, San Jose, Santa Barbara, and Ventura.Overview of Key Duties and Responsibilities:Business and Program Development
  • Lead growth and development of Rincon’s aquatic resources practice, with the opportunity to influence strategic direction and staffing
  • Cultivate and grow client relationships in the aquatic resources market
  • Lead proposal strategy and development, including technical approach, cost estimating, and team composition
  • Attend and present at conferences, agency coordination meetings, and industry events to build Rincon’s visibility and network
  • Identify market trends and emerging opportunities aligned with Rincon’s capabilities, specifically supporting the fisheries program growth
  • Collaborate with natural and aquatic resources leadership in business operations, including contract/risk management and program oversight
Technical Work
  • Serve as technical lead or principal-in-charge on CEQA, NEPA, permitting, and biological resources projects, with responsibility for overall scope, schedule, budget, and quality assurance
  • Lead or support the preparation and review of environmental documents, technical studies, and regulatory compliance materials
  • Develop and oversee permitting strategies and documentation, including Clean Water Act (Sections 404/401), CDFW LSAA, and federal/state endangered species consultations (FESA/CESA)
  • Foster collaboration across Rincon’s environmental planning, regulatory, and biological resources teams to deliver integrated solutions
  • Provide technical guidance and mentorship to staff, including QA/QC of deliverables and support for professional development
This Job Might Be for You If You Have the Following:
  • Minimum of a BS or BA in Environmental Science, Biology, Ecology, Planning, or related field (MS/advanced degree preferred)
  • At least 12+ years of relevant technical experience
  • Demonstrated success in client development, proposal writing, and pursuit strategy
  • Strong understanding of environmental review and/or permitting requirements for complex infrastructure projects in California
  • Demonstrated success in supervising employees, being solution-oriented, and fostering positive relationship with staff, clients, agencies and subconsultants
  • Familiarity with fisheries and aquatic resource issues—especially related to salmonids, Delta/Bay species, or restoration planning—is preferred
Rincon Consultants is an award-winning leader in providing quality environmental consulting services throughout California and is recognized as a ‘Best Environmental Services Firm to Work For’ by the Zweig Group. We partner with clients in sectors such as water, transportation, energy and utilities, and local government. Our 500+ associates in our 13 California offices are dedicated professionals who combine their passion with our purpose.The base salary range for this full-time position is $150,000–$190,000, plus a generous benefits program. At Rincon, our salary ranges are based on market median of similar jobs, according to third party salary benchmark surveys. The base pay that is actually offered will take into account internal equity and also may vary depending on the candidate’s job-related knowledge, skills, and experience.We are proud to offer a comprehensive Total Rewards Package, providing our valued employees with many benefits to enhance their well-being and financial security. Our health benefits include a range of options such as HMO, PPO, HDHP, and Health Savings Account choices, ensuring you have the flexibility to select the plan that best suits your needs.Additionally, you can enjoy peace of mind with employer-paid life and long-term disability insurance, as well as dental, vision, and prescription drug coverage. We prioritize your well-being by offering three weeks of vacation accrual in the first year, paid sick leave, and paid holidays, ensuring you have ample time off to rejuvenate. Planning for your future is made easier through our 401(k) / Profit Sharing Retirement Plan and bonus opportunities.Beyond the essentials, Rincon recognizes the importance of personal and professional growth, that's why we provide opportunities for professional development and mentoring. Our commitment extends to the community through Volunteer Pay for a Day, reinforcing the values of social responsibility. Moreover, we go the extra mile with additional perks like Flexible Spending & Dependent Care, Supplemental life insurance, Legal Shield, Identity Protection, Pet Insurance, and much more. Check out more details on our Rincon Consultants webpage !Individuals offered employment must successfully complete a pre-employment drug screening as a condition of employment. Additionally, those hired who may be assigned to federal projects will be subject to further drug testing, including screening for cannabinoids (THC/marijuana), in compliance with the Drug-Free Workplace Act of 1988 and other applicable federal regulations, which take precedence over California state and local laws.Rincon Consultants, Inc does not accept unsolicited applicant/candidate resumes from search firm recruiters and/or temporary agencies that do not have a signed contract and specified work order with Rincon Consultants. Further, such resumes received will be deemed the sole property of Rincon Consultants and no fees will be paid in the event Rincon Consultants subsequently hires such individual. Rincon Consultants is an equal opportunity employer. All aspects of employment will be based on merit, competence, performance, and business needs. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, marital status, age, national origin, ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical condition, pregnancy, genetic information, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, veteran status, or any other status protected under federal, state, or local law.

Rincon Consultants