Director / Principal - Aquatic Resources Practice

Rincon Consultants, Inc • Oakland, CA

3d • $140,000 - $190,000 • Hybrid

About The Position

We are 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.

Requirements

• BS or BA in Environmental Science, Biology, Ecology, Planning, or related field (MS/advanced degree preferred).
• 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

• We offer a comprehensive Total Rewards Package designed to support employee well-being, growth, and financial security. Our benefits are designed to offer flexibility and choice, including health coverage options, employer-sponsored insurance, retirement benefits, generous time off, and programs that support learning, growth, and community engagement.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Director
• Number of Employees: 251-500 employees