Principal Engineer, Water Resources (Principal Engineer Water Resources)

Job Description and Duties Are you ready to lead a multidisciplinary team providing funding opportunities for communities across California’s water sector? The California Department of Water Resources, Financial Assistance Branch (FAB) is seeking a new leader to guide its team. Under the general direction of the Division of Regional Assistance Manager, you will guide professional, technical, and administrative staff who deliver financial and technical assistance programs and support regional water management. You will set priorities, develop staff and managers, coordinate across DWR and partner agencies, and provide direction on complex program and funding decisions. In this role, you will oversee the development of grant program guidelines and delivery of grant funded projects, manage Branch budget and staffing needs, and advise leadership on policies and legislation. As a visible representative of the Branch, you will lead meetings and workshops and build productive relationships with Tribes, funding recipients, regional partners, community organizations and the public. You will find additional information about the job in the Duty Statement. Special Requirements The Department of Water Resources is committed to its mission and employees, and we are grounded in our commitment to public safety. Regular and consistent attendance is essential to the successful performance in this position. All employees are responsible for contributing to an inclusive, safe, and secure work environment that values diverse cultures, perspectives, and experiences, and is free from discrimination. Must be able to travel anywhere in California at least once per month and as needed. Desirable Qualifications In addition to evaluating each candidate's relative ability, as demonstrated by quality and breadth of experience, the following factors will provide the basis for competitively evaluating each candidate: The ideal candidate demonstrates: • Strong leadership of multidisciplinary teams, including coaching staff, setting priorities, and managing performance. • Experience administering grants or financial-assistance programs, with knowledge of California water-resources issues and regional planning. • Excellent communication and judgment, with an inclusive approach to working with executives, Tribes, communities, agencies, and other partners. • Skill in managing budgets and using program data to track outcomes, meet accountability requirements, and inform policy decisions.