Associate or Project Management Engineer (Central Valley, CA)

Are you ready to take the next step in your engineering career by gaining hands-on experience in full program management?

Our client, located in the heart of the California Central Valley, is seeking an Associate or Project Manager Level Engineer to join their team.

This role offers a rare combination of hands-on engineering, construction management, and operational oversight, allowing you to grow your technical skills while gaining exposure to broader operational and strategic challenges.

As part of a tight-knit team, you will work on critical water management projects that include surface water conveyance, water quality programs, and modernization initiatives.

This is an ideal role for someone who enjoys working in a collaborative environment, managing the complete lifecycle of water conservation projects, and getting involved in technical design and operational execution.

Key Responsibilities (depending on your experience, the degree of responsibility will vary) :

• Manage and oversee water resource projects from initial planning and design through construction and completion.
• Prepare engineering design documents, including construction plans and specifications, for water delivery systems and infrastructure.
• Lead modernization efforts in water and drainage facilities as part of long-term improvement initiatives.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to support operations, maintenance, and other departments.
• Conduct field surveys, manage data systems (GIS, SCADA), and ensure compliance with water quality and conservation standards.
• Oversee contractors and ensure projects are completed on time, within budget, and according to District goals.
• Support public outreach efforts and represent the organization to external stakeholders.

What You’ll Gain :

• Hands-on experience in water resources, including surface water management, hydraulic design, and conservation projects.
• Opportunity to develop leadership and program management skills while being mentored by senior-level engineers and management.
• A comprehensive understanding of construction management and the operational side of water systems.
• The chance to be part of a collaborative, high-impact team where your work makes a difference in water sustainability.

About You :

You are a resourceful and technically skilled civil or agricultural engineer with a passion for water resources and the drive to take on new challenges.

You are excited to build upon your experience in water systems and ready to contribute to meaningful projects that will impact the region’s future.

Qualifications :

• Bachelor’s Degree in Civil or Agricultural Engineering.
• Depending on experience, EIT or PE.
• Minimum of 1 year of professional experience with water resource projects, including open and closed water conveyance systems.
• Proficiency with GIS and AutoCAD (Civil 3D and HEC-RAS experience is a plus).
• Strong understanding of (or desire to specialize in) surface water systems, hydraulic calculations, and project management.
• Familiarity with public agency operations and the regulatory environment for water resources is preferred.
• California driver’s license and a good driving record.

Work Environment :

The role requires occasional fieldwork in outdoor conditions, including exposure to dust, dirt, and varying temperatures.

The ability to respond to operational needs outside of standard working hours may be required.

Our client is a California Equal Opportunity Employer committed to diversity and inclusion. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.

We encourage individuals from underrepresented groups to apply.