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Capital Program Manager Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Sr Program Manager

Los Angeles, CA ยท On-site

$125K - $125K/yr

Hill International is seeking a Sr. Program Manager in Los Angeles, California The Sr. Program Manager is responsible for leading complex capital programs and major construction projects from ...

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Capital Program Manager information

What are some common challenges a capital program manager faces when coordinating large-scale projects across multiple departments?

Capital Program Managers often face the challenge of aligning the objectives and timelines of various departments, such as finance, engineering, and procurement, while managing multiple projects simultaneously. Effective communication and stakeholder management are crucial, as unexpected delays or changes in one area can impact the entire program. Balancing competing priorities, staying within budget, and maintaining regulatory compliance also require strong organizational and leadership skills. Successful Capital Program Managers proactively address these challenges by fostering collaboration, setting clear expectations, and implementing robust project management frameworks.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a capital program manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Capital Program Manager, you need expertise in project management, budgeting, and construction or infrastructure planning, usually backed by a relevant degree and experience in large-scale capital projects. Familiarity with project management software (such as MS Project or Primavera), financial analysis tools, and often PMP or similar certifications is expected. Strong leadership, negotiation, and stakeholder communication skills set top performers apart in this role. These competencies ensure effective delivery of complex capital projects on time, within budget, and in alignment with organizational goals.

What is the difference between Capital Program Manager vs Project Manager?

AspectCapital Program ManagerProject Manager
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree in engineering, construction management, or related field; certifications like PMP or PgMP are commonUsually holds a bachelor's degree in a relevant field; PMP certification is often preferred
Work EnvironmentOversees multiple large-scale capital projects within infrastructure, construction, or public works sectorsManages individual projects across various industries, including construction, IT, or manufacturing
Employer & Industry UsageCommonly employed by government agencies, large corporations, and infrastructure firmsFound across diverse industries including construction, technology, and healthcare

The main difference is that a Capital Program Manager oversees multiple related projects within a capital program, focusing on strategic alignment and large-scale investment, while a Project Manager handles specific projects, ensuring their successful completion. Both roles require similar credentials but differ in scope and scale of responsibilities.

What does a capital program manager do?

A capital program manager oversees large-scale infrastructure or construction projects from planning through completion, ensuring they meet budget, schedule, and quality standards. They coordinate between stakeholders, manage resources, and monitor progress, often using project management tools and techniques. Strong leadership, communication, and knowledge of construction or engineering processes are essential for success in this role.

What are popular job titles related to Capital Program Manager jobs in California?

For Capital Program Manager jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in California are hiring for Capital Program Manager jobs?

Cities in California with the most Capital Program Manager job openings:

Infographic showing various Capital Program Manager job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution.

Program Manager - Water & Wastewater Infrastructure

GFT.

San Francisco, CA โ€ข Hybrid

$180K - $280K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 27 days ago


Job description

GFT is seeking a Program Manager - Water & Wastewater Infrastructureย to join our Water Team! This role follows a hybrid work model, requiring regular attendance in any of our offices nationwide.

What you'll be challenged to do:

We are seeking an experienced Program Manager to lead the delivery of complex water and wastewater capital programs for municipal and utility clients. This role is ideal for a leader who thrives at the intersection of strategy, governance, and execution, and brings a strong track record supporting medium- to large-scale Capital Improvement Programs (CIPs).

You will serve as a trusted advisor to owners, guiding programs from planning through design and construction, often within diverse delivery models such as progressive design-build.

In this capacity, the successful candidate will be responsible for the following:ย 

  • Lead program management services for water and wastewater capital programs ranging from $50M to $2B+
  • Lead integrated teams within complex program environments with multiple disciplines and stakeholders
  • Coordinate with design-builders, contractors, and subconsultants
  • Serve as Owner's Advisor/Consultant, supporting procurement, design, and construction phases
  • Develop and implement Program Management Plans (PMPs) including governance, controls, and reporting frameworks
  • Establish and oversee program controls (cost, schedule, risk, change management, and performance metrics)
  • Advise clients on delivery strategy (DBB, CMAR, Design-Build, Progressive Design-Build)
  • Drive effective stakeholder engagement including utility leadership, regulators, and community representatives
  • Support funding strategies including SRF/WIFIA and grant applications
  • Drive continuous improvement in project delivery, digital solutions (including PMIS and collaborative tools), and reporting systems
What you will bring to our firm:ย 
  • Bachelor's degree in Civil, Environmental, or related engineering fieldย 
  • 15+ years of experience in water/wastewater engineering and program or project management including 5 years in program or project leadership
  • Demonstrated experience managing large, complex infrastructure programs
  • Strong understanding of treatment facilities, pump stations, and conveyance systems
  • Experience with collaborative delivery models (Design-Build, Progressive Design-Build, CMAR)
  • Proven ability to manage program controls, risk, and stakeholder coordination
  • Professional Engineer (PE) license required
What we prefer you bring:ย 
  • Master's Degree in Civil, Environmental, or related engineering field
  • Associate DBIA or DBIA certification preferred
  • Professional certification (PgMP, PMP, APMPMQ, or equivalent) preferred but not essential.
ย Compensation:The salary range for this role is $180,000 - $280,000. Salary is dependent upon experience and geographic location.ย Featured Benefits:ย  Hybrid (in-person and remote) work environment. Comprehensive benefits package including wellness programs, parental leave, and pet insurance, in addition to medical, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance. Tax-deferred 401(k) savings plan. Competitive paid-time-off (PTO) accrual. Tuition reimbursement for continued education. Commitment to professional development, access to internal and external training programs, and support of active participation in professional organizations Incentive compensation for eligible positions.

At GFT, a privately held AEC firm, we innovate where transportation, water, power, and buildings converge. We call this the Infrastructure of Life. We measure our success by the strength of our relationships - that's why we're the employer of choice for 5,000+ of the industry's brightest engineers, planners, architects, inspectors, designers, and more.

Our clients choose us for our expertise and prefer us for our nimble approach, creativity, and personal touch. Backed by over a century's experience, together we're building a lasting legacy for future generations: stronger communities, a healthier planet, and better lives.GFT: Ingenuity That Shapes Lives is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veterans' status or other characteristics protected by law.

Unsolicited resumes from third party agencies will be considered the property GFT.

GFT does require the successful completion of a criminal background check for all advertised positions.ย 

Location:ย NationwideCore Business Hours: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PMEmployment Status: Full-Time

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Employment Type: FULL_TIME