Civil Engineering Manager

This position is located onsite in Montecito, CA in the County of Santa Barbara.

The Widroe Group is pleased to conduct this recruitment on behalf of the Montecito Water District. Since 1998, we have helped special districts, cities, and counties across California build strong organizations through exceptional public sector recruiting. We are proud to support this District once again in the search for its next Engineering Manager.

This is an outstanding opportunity for a California-licensed Professional Engineer to take on a high-impact leadership role with broad responsibility for engineering, operations, capital delivery, regulatory compliance, and long-range infrastructure planning. Reporting to the General Manager, the Engineering Manager serves as a key member of the executive management team and helps shape the future of a respected public utility organization.

Engineering Manager

Under the direction of the General Manager, the Engineering Manager plans, directs, and manages the District’s engineering and operations functions, including capital improvement planning and implementation, engineering design, construction management, development review, permitting, environmental and regulatory compliance, and water treatment and delivery operations.

This role leads and supervises engineering and operations staff, manages consultants and contractors, administers departmental budgets, and coordinates with District departments, regulatory agencies, developers, contractors, and the public. As a member of the executive management team, the Engineering Manager provides technical and strategic support to the General Manager and Board of Directors and contributes to District-wide planning, policy development, emergency response, and organizational initiatives.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the District’s engineering and operations programs in alignment with organizational priorities
• Supervise treatment and distribution superintendents and engineering staff, while supporting team development and performance
• Direct the planning, budgeting, design, permitting, construction, and implementation of the capital improvement program and infrastructure master plans
• Manage complex infrastructure and engineering projects from planning through completion
• Oversee asset management, infrastructure resiliency, and long-term capital rehabilitation planning
• Review and approve engineering studies, plans, specifications, technical reports, and cost estimates
• Oversee development review, permitting, connection requirements, fees, and inspections related to private development affecting District facilities
• Manage consultant and contractor procurement, contract negotiation, administration, performance, schedule, and budget
• Oversee environmental planning, permitting, and regulatory compliance
• Develop and administer the Engineering Department budget and related resources
• Prepare and present staff reports, recommendations, and project updates to the General Manager, Board of Directors, and committees
• Represent the District in meetings and negotiations with agencies, consultants, contractors, developers, community organizations, and the public
• Identify and implement improvements to engineering processes, systems, and service delivery

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in civil engineering or a closely related field from an accredited college or university
• Valid California Professional Engineer (P.E.) license in Civil Engineering or a closely related field
• Five to seven years of progressively responsible professional civil engineering experience, preferably in water utility infrastructure, capital improvement projects, and construction
• Two to three years of supervisory or managerial experience overseeing staff, consultants, and complex capital projects
• Current driver’s license
• Grade II Water Distribution and Treatment Operator Certificates required within two years of hire

Ideal Candidate

The ideal candidate is a licensed Professional Engineer with strong technical depth, leadership ability, and sound judgment. The District seeks a collaborative and effective manager who brings:

• Experience with water utility infrastructure, capital project delivery, and construction oversight
• Knowledge of applicable laws, codes, permitting requirements, environmental regulations, and engineering standards
• Strength in staff leadership, consultant and contractor management, budgeting, and organizational planning
• Strong analytical skills and the ability to make practical, well-supported decisions
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills and the ability to present complex issues clearly and professionally

Compensation and Benefits

• Salary Range: $178,000 to $219,000
• Benefits: Generous benefits package including medical, dental, vision, PTO, a great work environment, and more

Work Environment

This role includes both office and field work at District facilities and project sites. Field activities may involve construction areas, uneven terrain, traffic, weather exposure, noise, chemicals, confined spaces, and mechanical or electrical hazards, along with occasional bending, climbing, kneeling, and lifting up to 30 pounds.

About The Widroe Group

Since 1998, The Widroe Group has helped California special districts, cities, and counties recruit outstanding leaders and professionals who strengthen organizations and advance public service. Our long-standing partnership with this District reflects that same commitment and gives us a deep understanding of the leadership qualities, technical strengths, and cultural fit needed for success here.

This is a compelling opportunity for a California-licensed P.E. seeking a leadership role with meaningful impact on infrastructure, operations, and public service. The District offers the chance to help guide critical systems, lead a capable team, and contribute at the executive level in a high-performing organization.

Interested candidates should apply directly through The Widroe Group, the District’s retained recruitment partner.

The Widroe Group is proud to support California public agencies in building great organizations, and we are honored to assist the District in identifying its next Engineering Manager.

Since 1998, The Widroe Group has partnered with organizations across engineering, professional services, technology, healthcare, government, agriculture, manufacturing, and more. Built on a foundation of trust, we’ve earned the confidence of both clients and candidates through consistent discretion, integrity, and results-driven execution.

We understand that every hiring decision and career move carries meaningful impact. That’s why we approach every search with the highest level of confidentiality, care, and professionalismwhether you’re building your team or advancing your career.

Let’s move forwardtogether.