Director / Principal — Aquatic Resources Practice

Rincon Consultants, Inc•Oakland, CA

29d•$140,000 - $190,000•Hybrid

About The Position

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. 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. 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. 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.

Requirements

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

Nice To Haves

Familiarity with fisheries and aquatic resource issues—especially related to salmonids, Delta/Bay species, or restoration planning—is preferred

Responsibilities

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
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

Benefits

generous benefits program
health benefits include a range of options such as HMO, PPO, HDHP, and Health Savings Account choices
employer-paid life and long-term disability insurance
dental, vision, and prescription drug coverage
three weeks of vacation accrual in the first year
paid sick leave
paid holidays
401(k) / Profit Sharing Retirement Plan
bonus opportunities
opportunities for professional development and mentoring
Volunteer Pay for a Day
Flexible Spending & Dependent Care
Supplemental life insurance
Legal Shield
Identity Protection
Pet Insurance