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Surface Water Project Manager

Michael Baker International

Santa Ana, CA · Posted November 13, 2026

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About the job

What We’re Looking For:

Michael Baker International is seeking a Surface Water Project Manager to spearhead stormwater compliance and project delivery within our Surface Water Group in California . In this role, you will support some of the largest stormwater permittees in the state—spanning NPDES and MS4 permits, industrial stormwater requirements, and construction stormwater compliance. ( Hybrid work schedule )

We are looking for a developing technical and project leader who:

Brings strong technical judgment and strategic thinking.

Thrives in a dynamic environment with shifting priorities.

Enjoys collaborating with multidisciplinary teams and mentoring junior staff.

Communicates clearly with clients, regulators, and internal teams while establishing lasting relationships.

Identifies opportunities for innovation and continuous improvement.

Is interested in growing project management and client development responsibilities over time.

Is ready to be a visible, active member of the Surface Water community.

What You’ll Do:

Project & Team Support

Manage a high volume of construction stormwater-related projects, ensuring quality, timeliness, and regulatory compliance.

Perform regular construction stormwater site inspections throughout the service area to evaluate site conditions, BMP implementation and maintenance, and compliance with applicable permit requirements.

Coordinate project assignments and collaborate with technical staff to meet project schedules and client expectations.

Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior staff as experience develops.

Client Service & Business Development

Cultivate and maintain trusted adviser relationships with key clients.

Serve as a primary point of contact, responding quickly to evolving client needs.

Support project pursuits, including proposal development and interview presentations.

Actively participate in professional organizations, conferences, boards, and technical committees to strengthen industry presence and secure new work.

Identify emerging industry needs and contribute to thought leadership through technical articles and presentations.

Technical Expertise

Provide guidance on California stormwater regulations, including MS4 permits, industrial stormwater requirements, and construction stormwater compliance.

Work with senior technical staff to address complex regulatory and project-specific challenges.

Stay current on changing stormwater regulations, permit requirements, guidance, and industry practices.

Support the development of innovative solutions to meet evolving regulatory and client needs.

What You Need to Succeed:

Required

Experience with California stormwater regulations, permits, and compliance programs.

Demonstrated adaptability and comfort working in fast-paced, dynamic environments.

Excellent communication skills, with the ability to convey complex information clearly to clients, regulators, and internal teams.

Preferred

Familiarity with the California Construction General Permit (Order No. 2022-0057-DWQ).

QSD and QSP certifications strongly desired, or ability to obtain within 3 months of hire.

Experience engaging with industry organizations and supporting business development initiatives.

Compensation: The approximate compensation range for this position is $116,727 - $150,000 per year . This compensation range is a good faith estimate for the position at the time of posting. Actual compensation is dependent upon factors such as education, qualifications, experience, skillset, and physical work location.

Why Choose Us:

Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance

401(k) Retirement Plan with company match

Health Savings Account (HSA) & Flexible Spending Account (FSA) options

Company-paid Life, AD&D, short-term, and long-term disability insurance

Robust professional and personal development programs

Generous paid time off (PTO) and holiday schedule

Commuter benefits and wellness incentives

#LI-MF1 #hybrid

Michael Baker International, a leading provider of engineering and consulting services, including design, planning, architectural, environmental, construction and program management, has been solving some of the world’s most complex infrastructure challenges for more than 85 years with a legacy of expertise, experience, innovation and integrity.

Based in Pittsburgh and with over 100 offices nationwide, we partner with clients on everything from roads, bridges, tunnels, mass transit, and airports, to water treatment plants, arctic oil pipelines, environmental restoration and specialized overseas construction. We serve as a trusted adviser to the communities we serve, making them safer, more accessible, more sustainable and more prosperous.

We provide visionary leadership in facilitating transformational change for our clients. Our work delivers differentiating innovations and dedicated experts who challenge the status quo and share a world of diverse experience and an impassioned entrepreneurial spirit. We deliver quality of life.

We Make a Difference.

Michael Baker International is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. Michael Baker International provides equal employment opportunity for all persons, in all facets of employment. Michael Baker International maintains a drug-free workplace and performs pre-employment substance abuse testing and background checks. We encourage all qualified applicants to apply for any open position for which they feel they are qualified and all will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, creed, age, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship status, marital status, familial status, pregnancy or childbirth, genetic information, disability, protected veteran status, status with regard to public assistance, or membership or activity in a local human rights commission, or any other legally protected status.

EEO is the Law. Applicants to and employees of Michael Baker International are protected under Federal law from discrimination.

*It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

*There is no current application deadline. Michael Baker will continue to accept applications on an ongoing basis until the position is filled or no longer needed.