Senior Project Manager, Water/Wastewater

Senior Water/Wastewater Engineering Project Manager
About the Role
David Evans and Associates (DEA) is seeking a Senior Water/Wastewater Engineering Project Manager (PM V) to lead complex, multi-phase municipal water and wastewater programs in the Puget Sound region. This role is a high-impact leadership position, responsible for overseeing large-scale programs, developing key client relationships, and driving business growth.
As a technical and business leader, you will direct major infrastructure projects, engage in long-term strategic planning, and mentor future leaders within DEA. The position reports to DEA's Water/Wastewater Practice Leader and collaborates with the Water and Environment (WEBU) Puget Sound Market Leader and other senior leadership.
Key Responsibilities
Program & Project Leadership
Lead and manage large, complex water/wastewater programs with multiple stakeholders, subconsultants, and long-term phased deliverables.
Oversee the planning, design, and execution for water and wastewater systems, including water supply and storage, water and wastewater pumping and conveyance and treatment systems.
Drive project financial success, managing budgets, forecasting revenue, and ensuring high profitability.
Ensure seamless coordination between engineering teams, regulatory agencies, and municipal clients.
Client & Business Development
Serve as a strategic advisor to municipal agencies, developing and maintaining strong client relationships across the Puget Sound region.
Actively lead business development initiatives, including identifying opportunities, securing new work, and expanding DEA's regional footprint.
Represent DEA at industry events, professional organizations, and community initiatives to strengthen relationships and market presence.
Team Leadership & Mentorship
Build and develop high-performing, cross-disciplinary project teams.
Provide mentorship and guidance to mid-level project managers, ensuring knowledge transfer and leadership development.
Establish clear expectations, accountability, and a collaborative team culture to successfully deliver project outcomes.
Financial & Operational Oversight
Oversee project financials, including contract negotiations, invoicing, accounts receivable, and profitability tracking.
Ensure project revenue portfolio falls within the $2M - $5M range, or serve as a Program Manager overseeing multiple high-value projects.
Maintain a PM Composite Score consistently exceeding 100, demonstrating excellence in project delivery.
Minimum Qualifications
Bachelor's degree in Civil or Environmental Engineering or a related field.
Registered Professional Engineer (PE) in Washington
Certified or provisionally certified DEA Project Manager (PM V) or ability to obtain upon hire.
8 - 15 years of experience in municipal water/wastewater engineering, including project and program management.
Strong written and verbal communication skills, with experience leading multidisciplinary teams and engaging directly with public agencies.
Demonstrated success in program management, business development, and strategic client engagement.
5+ years in a business development role with clients in the Washington market
Preferred Qualifications
15+ years of experience in municipal water/wastewater engineering.
Deep expertise in public sector project delivery, long-term capital improvement planning, and regulatory compliance.
Experience managing large-scale, multi-phase projects with significant complexities, including stakeholder coordination, subconsultant management, and phased funding.
Proven ability to lead business development efforts, secure contracts, and expand regional market presence.
Familiarity with WaterGEMS, SewerGEMS, and advanced hydraulic modeling tools.
Why Join DEA?
At DEA, we take pride in lea