Program Manager - Natural Resources

Company: Sequoia Ecological Consulting
Location: Walnut Creek
Posted on: February 19, 2026

Job Description:

Job Description Job Description Salary: $124,800-$160,160 annually/ DOE Program Manager- Natural Resources Job Overview The Program Manager is responsible for business development for existing and prospective clients, cradle-to-grave program and project oversight, and leading complex projects and programs with no oversight. They are expected to act independently to build and develop programs and associated work products to completion. The Program Manager leads teams, drives business development, and builds new service lines by dedicating time to marketing, recruiting, and fostering partnerships. They take on complex projects requiring advanced technical skills, address challenging situations, and spearhead new initiatives to grow Sequoias practices and operational efficiency. The Program Manager is responsible for supervising up to 5 direct reports and a team of up to 20 individuals who support their assigned programs. This position reports to the Principals or Director. Responsibilities and Duties Program Leadership and Development Foster a safe, collaborative, and inclusive team environment, promoting knowledge sharing and continuous learning Lead technical and grant writing efforts for Sequoia and/or its clients Build a team dedicated to work on the line(s) of business they oversee The team should also support projects outside that business lines as needed Supervise, mentor, and coach all levels of staff Provide program support to HR team in hiring, onboarding, and offboarding employees assigned to their program(s) Support and guide staff in achieving their professional development goals Program and Project Oversight Ensure highest quality and accuracy in planning, implementing, and completing all assigned program projects Develop comprehensive project plans, including timelines, budgets, and resource allocation, ensuring alignment with Sequoias strategic objectives Conduct regular project reviews and pursue operational adjustments to ensure compliance with applicable local, state, and federal laws and regulations Identify potential risks associated with projects and develop mitigation strategies Oversee and perform quality review of all work products Collaborate with Sequioa or partnering experts to integrate the latest research and best practices in project execution Develop and lead monthly meetings and/or trainings in the regulatory practices sector Frequently handle projects requiring remediation, whether due to high-touch clients, staffing challenges, or complex field situations Relationship Management Maintain and cultivate new relationships within the environmental consulting industry Act as primary liaison with clients, stakeholders, and community groups, meeting and managing all needs and expectations Senior Leadership Contributions Participate in senior leadership initiatives Identify growth and engagement opportunities for staff Explore new service lines and opportunities Provide strategic input and advice on Sequoias overall direction and growth Work with the other Program Managers and senior leadership to collaboratively define the direction of the company, set policies and procedures, plan and lead meetings, and provide other leadership support Business Development Act as an external lead for Sequoia representing the firm at virtual or in-person conferences and other events Develop and lead Responses to Proposals/Quotes, engaging in project and business development Work closely with marketing team to lead or co-lead business development efforts, attend key meetings, and represent Sequoia at relevant conferences Actively participate in key trade organizations, professional societies, and potentially board memberships in the marketplace Identify and pursue new market opportunities Attend Go/No Go meetings with senior leadership team Qualifications Progressive success working as a Project Manager, Senior Project Manager, or Program Manager for at least 10 years Demonstrated success working as a senior-level Project Manager for at least 4 years Demonstrated success supervising teams for at least 5 years Proven capability of mentoring new supervisors Thorough understanding of FESA, CESA, CWA Sections 401 and 404, CFGC Section 1600, CEQA, NEPA, and other federal and state regulatory requirements Routinely viewed by peers, principals, and other employees as a technical expert Routinely relied upon by other employees as a leader and mentor Demonstrated ability to motivate and inspire teams and individuals; effectively negotiate, communicate, listen, and influence; and build and improve team performance Demonstrated, clear understanding of Sequoias mission, vision, and values Ability to manage complex projects independently without supervision Bachelors degree in biology, ecology, environmental science, planning, or related field Sophisticated understanding of California flora/fauna and/or regulatory environment Demonstrated verbal and written communication and editing skills Proficiency in MS Office Suite Familiarity with GIS mapping tools and ability to navigate existing tools Valid drivers license Other Requirements An insured vehicle that does not leak fluids Ability to perform fieldwork and/or travel up to 5% of time Overnight stays up to 5% of the time, depending on projects assigned

Keywords: Sequoia Ecological Consulting, North Highlands , Program Manager - Natural Resources, Executive , Walnut Creek, California