Project Manager/ Project Director - Water Design Build

Industry

Water

At Jacobs, we're challenging today to reinvent tomorrow by solving the world's most critical problems for thriving cities, resilient environments, mission-critical outcomes, operational advancement, scientific discovery and cutting-edge manufacturing, turning abstract ideas into realities that transform the world for good.

Your impact

Role Overview

Support our Design-Build water clients across the U.S. while helping deliver critical infrastructure projects that protect one of our planet's most vital resources. As Project Manager/ Project Director - Water Design Build , you will lead multiple project teams and oversee the successful execution of water, wastewater, and water resources projects across the region.

This role combines strong project delivery leadership with team development and client engagement, while also contributing to business growth and operational excellence.

Key Responsibilities

Project & Program Delivery

• Provide leadership and oversight for multiple concurrent Design-Build water and wastewater projects
• Ensure successful delivery across cost, schedule, quality, safety, and contractual performance metrics
• Oversee project execution from planning and design through construction, commissioning, and closeout
• Implement and drive Design-Build best practices, including cost estimating, risk management, procurement strategy, and scheduling
• Monitor portfolio performance and proactively address risks, issues, and variances

Operational Management

• Oversee budgets, schedules, scope development, and contract compliance for assigned projects
• Review and approve consultant invoices, contractor pay applications, and change orders in coordination with project controls
• Ensure consistency in project reporting, forecasting, and documentation standards
• Lead resolution of complex construction issues, disputes, and escalations

Team Leadership

• Lead, mentor, and develop Project Managers and project teams
• Foster a collaborative, accountable, and high-performance culture
• Support workforce planning, staffing strategies, and professional development initiatives

Client Engagement & Business Development

• Serve as a key client-facing leader, maintaining strong relationships with project stakeholders
• Support business development efforts, including proposal development, pursuit strategy, and client presentations
• Participate in identifying and pursuing new opportunities within the water market

Here's what you'll need

• Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering or related discipline (or equivalent experience)
• 12-15+ years of experience in Design-Build delivery for water, wastewater, water resources, or conveyance projects
• Demonstrated success managing multiple complex projects or programs simultaneously
• Strong understanding of Design-Build delivery methods, including commercial, procurement, and risk management practices
• Professional Engineer (PE), Certified Construction Manager (CCM), or similar credential preferred

Core Competencies

• Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills
• Ability to manage competing priorities in a fast-paced environment
• Proven problem-solving skills with the ability to navigate complex project challenges
• Client-focused mindset with a track record of building lasting relationships

Posted Salary Range: Minimum

230,800.00

Posted Salary Range: Upper

360,700.00

Our health and welfare benefits are designed to invest in you, and in the things you care about. Your health. Your well-being. Your security. Your future. Employees have access to medical, dental, vision, and basic life insurance, a 401(k) plan, and the ability to purchase company stock at a discount. Eligible employees may also enroll in a deferred compensation plan or the Executive Deferral Plan. Jacobs has an unlimited U.S. Personalized Paid Time Off (PPTO) policy for full-time salaried/exempt employees, seven paid holidays, and caregiver leave. And certain roles may be eligible for additional rewards, including merit increases, performance discretionary bonus, and stock.

The base salary range for this position is $230,800.00 to $360,700.00. Within the range, individual pay is determined by work location and additional factors, including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. Job posted on June 23, 2026. This position will be open for at least 3 days.

Onsite employees are expected to attend a Jacobs Workplace on a full-time basis, as required by the nature of their role.

Your application experience is important to us, and we're keen to adapt to make every interaction even better. If you require further support or reasonable adjustments with regards to the recruitment process (for example, you require the application form in a different format), please contact the team via Careers Support.

Locations

CityStateCountrySan FranciscoCaliforniaUnited StatesLos AngelesCaliforniaUnited States