Director of Talent Development
About The Position
Environmental Science Associates (ESA) is a 100% employee-owned environmental consulting firm. We plan, design, permit, mitigate, and restore for projects across our communities, infrastructure systems, open spaces, and wildlands. We are 50 years strong in 21 offices across California, the Pacific Northwest, and the Southeastern United States. ESA is seeking a visionary Director of Talent Development to architect and lead our firm-wide talent ecosystem. From early career growth to executive leadership, you’ll design and deliver programs that empower our people to learn, lead, and thrive. This is a strategic, high-impact role for a leader who blends behavioral insight, AI innovation, and a deep commitment to inclusion and continuous improvement. This role will be based out of our San Francisco, CA office, and working on a hybrid schedule of being onsite 1-3 days per week.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in HR, Business, or related field (master’s or certifications preferred).
- 10+ years leading employee development, learning, and engagement programs.
- Proven success in succession planning, career pathing, and leadership pipelines.
- Expertise in learning technologies, performance management, and AI-based tools.
- Strong communication, facilitation, and collaboration skills.
- Strategic thinking and data-informed decision-making.
- Change leadership experience and a passion for innovation.
Responsibilities
- Lead and evolve career pathways, mentorship, and leadership programs from entry-level to executive.
- Launch and scale emerging leader and executive development initiatives.
- Oversee ESA’s Consulting 101 program to build foundational consulting and communication skills.
- Align all development programs with ESA’s strategic goals and values.
- Develop and implement ESA’s Manager Expectations Framework.
- Deliver training that equips managers to coach, develop, and retain top talent.
- Design custom learning experiences using tools like DiSC® and behavioral analytics.
- Reimagine performance management to foster a culture of continuous feedback and growth.
- Build a robust succession planning framework to identify and develop future leaders.
- Partner with senior leaders to anticipate gaps and create targeted development plans.
- Use data analytics to monitor bench strength and readiness for key roles.
- Promote transparency and mobility across career paths.
- Serve as a trusted advisor on talent, engagement, and organizational design.
- Integrate AI and digital platforms to deliver scalable, personalized learning.
- Champion innovation in leadership development and workforce strategy.
- Embed JEDI principles in all talent and leadership programs.
- Foster a culture where diverse perspectives are valued and all employees feel they belong.
- Lead and support diverse impact projects across ESA.
- Build trusted partnerships with internal clients to align talent strategies with business goals.
- Translate organizational priorities into impactful people programs.
- Facilitate leadership forums and learning sessions that spark reflection and action.
Benefits
- medical, dental, and vision insurance (paid at 70% for you AND your family)
- annual allocations of company shares through our Employee Stock Option Program
- a 401(k) plan with company match
- paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays
- tuition reimbursement
- professional development bonuses
- attendance at conferences
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Director
Number of Employees
251-500 employees
