Operations Manager: Water & Wastewater

Description

• Identify, pursue, and secure new business opportunities in the water and wastewater markets, focusing on municipal, industrial, and private sector clients.
• Act as the principal-in-charge or project manager for key projects, ensuring technical excellence, budget adherence, and on-time delivery.
• Oversee the successful planning, design, and execution of complex water and wastewater projects, including treatment plants, pipelines, and distribution/collection systems.
• Stay informed of industry trends, regulations, and innovations to anticipate client needs and market shifts.
• Serve as a mentor and technical leader, fostering the development of junior staff and cultivating a culture of collaboration and excellence.
• Provide strategic input to the company’s growth initiatives, market positioning, and operational efficiency.
• Manage MKN’s Ventura office, including business development, client services, and Ventura staff workload
• Represent the firm at industry events, conferences, and community meetings, strengthening the company’s reputation and visibility.
• Build and maintain strong client relationships to understand their needs and position the firm as a trusted partner.
• Lead proposal preparation, presentations, and negotiations to win projects and grow the firm’s presence in the region.
• Coordinate multidisciplinary teams and subcontractors to deliver innovative, sustainable, and client-focused solutions.

Requirements

MKN does not sponsor foreign nationals for employment-based visas or permanent residence.

MKN, an Ardurra company, is seeking an experienced and dedicated Operations Manager to drive business development and lead projects in the water and wastewater industry for our Ventura office. This role blends client engagement with technical project delivery, offering the opportunity to build relationships, develop solutions, and execute impactful infrastructure projects across Southern California.

• Professional Engineer (PE) license in California required.
• 15+ years of experience in the water and wastewater industry, including a mix of technical project delivery and business development. Experience managing delivery of design projects is a plus.
• Bachelor’s degree in Civil, Environmental, or related Engineering field (Master’s preferred).
• Deep knowledge of California water and wastewater markets, including municipal agency clients, funding mechanisms, and regulatory requirements.
• Strong leadership, communication, and negotiation skills, with the ability to inspire confidence and build lasting relationships.
• Proven experience managing teams and mentoring staff in a collaborative, growth-oriented environment.

Benefits

MKN strongly believes in and understands the importance of balancing work and personal life. Our recent awards, Great Place to Work and Zweig Top Firms, are based on employee surveys and a testament to this value and the support we provide for our fellow team members. Our collaborative and inclusive work environment allows us to maintain a positive work culture while providing excellent service to our clients.

most importantly, an opportunity for engagement and support from an engineering team that has led major regional water resource projects throughout California.

Compensation is based on experience and qualifications. The salary range for this position is $175,000 to $220,000. The firm offers a highly competitive salary and fringe benefits, and

• Enjoy a strong commitment to work-life balance, as recognized by Great Place to Work and Zweig Top Firms awards.
• Access to professional development opportunities and career growth within a thriving industry leader.
• Competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits package.
• Work with a highly collaborative and supportive team dedicated to innovation and excellence.

Training + Development

Interview process

Visa Sponsorship

Security clearance