Director / Principal - Utilities Practice
About The Position
We are seeking a Director/Principal to lead our Utilities practice within the Environmental Planning and Natural Resources teams. This is an opportunity for a proven leader in the utilities sector to shape Rincon’s statewide strategy, guide high-profile projects, and expand our market presence. You will direct multidisciplinary teams, strengthen key client relationships, and drive innovation in service delivery—while mentoring senior staff and advancing strategic growth initiatives. The ideal candidate has a strong track record in business development, complex project delivery, and regulatory navigation, with expertise in utility infrastructure, operations and maintenance planning, licensing, and energy delivery solutions.
Requirements
- BS or BA in Environmental Science, Biology, Planning, or related field (MS/advanced degree preferred).
- 12+ years’ senior-level experience in utilities-focused consulting, project delivery, and business development.
- Demonstrated ability to lead complex, multidisciplinary projects, navigate regulatory frameworks, and deliver strategic solutions for clients.
- Experience in licensing, permitting, and programmatic compliance for utility infrastructure projects.
- Knowledge of CPUC processes, General Orders, and utility O&M permitting.
- Proven track record of building long-term client relationships and securing repeat business.
- Strong business acumen with expertise in budgeting, forecasting, and resource allocation.
- Exceptional communication and presentation skills.
- Proficiency in digital project management tools.
Responsibilities
- Shape and lead Rincon’s statewide strategy for utilities services.
- Cultivate and sustain senior-level client relationships, positioning Rincon as a trusted advisor.
- Lead business development, including opportunity identification, proposal strategy, and industry representation.
- Collaborate across service lines to deliver integrated solutions for transmission, distribution, power generation, and utility infrastructure projects.
- Develop and maintain relationships with major California utilities, including SoCalGas, SDG&E, PG&E, LADWP, and SCE.
- Oversee project portfolios, ensuring technical excellence, compliance, and on-time, on-budget delivery.
- Provide QA/QC review for technical studies, environmental documentation, and regulatory filings.
- Guide strategy for CPUC, FERC, utility-specific permitting, and licensing.
- Oversee planning and permitting of operations and maintenance programs, including execution of PEA (Proponent’s Environmental Assessments) and DER (Detailed Engineering Review) where applicable.
- Streamline operations and enhance service delivery through process improvements.
- Recruit, develop, and retain top talent for the Utilities practice, fostering a high-performance, collaborative culture.
- Mentor senior staff on business strategy, technical leadership, and client management.
- Lead succession planning to ensure long-term practice sustainability.
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.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Principal
Number of Employees
251-500 employees
