Project Director - Engineering Lead, Southwest Region

What we are looking for

 

The Project Director – Engineering Lead, Southwest Region provides strategic, technical, and operational leadership for a high-impact engineering practice within the Southwest region. This role is responsible for driving market growth, strengthening key client relationships, and advancing the firm’s solid waste capabilities while ensuring exceptional project delivery, financial performance, and alignment with company-wide objectives.

 

As a senior leader, the Project Director partners closely with business unit leadership, corporate market leaders, and national technical experts to shape strategy, pursue complex opportunities, and deliver innovative solutions for clients. The role oversees and mentors Project Directors, Project Managers, and technical staff, fostering a high-performing, collaborative team culture while serving as a trusted advisor to clients, regulators, and industry organizations. You will report to the Southwest Solid Waste Leader. The preference is for you to be hybrid out of any Southwest SCS Office located in California, Arizona, Utah, or Nevada. Remote work or hybrid work out of another SCS office may be considered. 

 

How you can make an impact

Leadership & Culture

• Build and sustain a high-performing, collaborative engineering team aligned with company core values and strategic priorities.
• Lead succession planning and develop future leaders across PD, PM, and staff levels.
• Foster a culture of accountability, productive conflict, engagement, and continuous improvement.
• Promote health, safety, and employee development as core operational priorities.

Strategy & Market Leadership

• Develop and execute business unit and market strategies aligned with company growth objectives.
• Drive expansion in key service areas, including solid waste, landfill gas, and organics.
• Lead market growth initiatives, including new client development and service expansion.
• Represent the firm in industry organizations, conferences, and strategic forums.

Technical Leadership & Quality

• Serve as Technical Leader and/or reviewing principal on complex projects.
• Ensure delivery of high-quality, innovative engineering solutions consistent with company Quality Management System (QMS).
• Provide technical oversight, guidance, and mentorship to project teams.
• Promote standardization, best practices, and continuous improvement across projects.

Operational & Team Management

• Oversee staffing, resource planning, and workforce development to support project delivery and growth.
• Conduct regular performance coaching, mentoring, and development discussions with staff.
• Support cross-training and knowledge sharing across disciplines and business units.
• Drive improvements in productivity, utilization, and operational efficiency.

Business Development & Client Management

• Develop and implement business development plans to support revenue growth and market positioning.
• Build and maintain strong client relationships, ensuring long-term partnerships and client satisfaction.
• Lead or support proposal development, including RFP responses, qualifications, and interviews.
• Expand services to existing clients through cross-selling and collaboration across business units.

                     Financial Performance

• Drive revenue growth, profitability, and sustainable financial performance.
• Monitor key financial metrics including net revenue, utilization, and profit margins.
• Support budgeting, forecasting, and financial planning processes.
• Ensure projects are delivered on schedule, within budget, and at expected profitability levels.

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Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in civil engineering or related engineering field required. Master’s degree preferred.
• Professional Engineer (PE) license in one Southwest Region state required. California state registration preferred.
• Minimum of 12 years of experience in environmental services or solid waste engineering with increasing leadership responsibility required.
• Demonstrated experience in business development and client relationship management.
• Proven track record of managing teams, projects, and financial performance.
• Valid driver’s license with a good driving record required.

Pay Range

USD $160,000.00 - USD $210,000.00 /Yr.

Additional Information

Please note that our pay ranges are determined by several factors, including relevant experience, internal pay equity, and l