Marine Services Business Development Lead / Operations Manager - Southern California

Marine Jobs with David Evans and Associates:

At David Evans and Associates, Inc., our Marine team leads in hydrographic and marine geophysical surveying. With advanced technologies like high-resolution multibeam bathymetry, vessel-based LiDAR, and underwater imaging, we deliver precise, comprehensive data. Our commitment to accuracy, cost-efficiency, and timely delivery consistently exceeds client expectations. From precision charting to habitat mapping, we offer a wide range of innovative solutions tailored to fulfill our clients' specific needs. Our work goes beyond current industry demands to pave the way for a more sustainable and progressive future, contributing to the advancement of marine sciences and enhancing the quality of marine life.

DEA is seeking a Business Development Lead / Operations Manager - Southern California to build and grow our Marine Services presence in the region.

Based in Southern California, this leader will establish and expand DEA's hydrographic operations, growing a local team, driving client engagement, and ensuring the successful delivery of projects.

This role is ideal for a proven leader who thrives in dynamic environments, enjoys growing teams, has existing connections/clients aligned with DEA Marine Services offerings, and is motivated by the opportunity to build on DEA's marine business line in Southern California.

Business Development & Client Leadership

• Achieve annual net sales goals of $2M-$10M by developing new business opportunities and expanding existing client relationships.
• Lead business development visioning and strategy, driving proposal development, contract negotiations, and project pursuit activities.
• Build strong, trust-based relationships with ports, municipalities, AE firms, energy clients, and other stakeholders across Southern California.
• Serve as Client Team Lead, coordinating pursuit efforts and aligning DEA's capabilities to client needs.

Operations & Team Leadership

• Work with the Marine Services Director, Operations Manager, and Market Leader to build, manage, and mentor a multidisciplinary team of hydrographers, project managers, and technical staff.
• Align staff strengths with project and business needs, fostering career growth and professional development.
• Oversee staffing, scheduling, and resource allocation to maximize efficiency, utilization, and project delivery.

Project & Technology Oversight

• Ensure projects meet quality, safety, and compliance standards while exceeding client expectations.
• Guide the selection, implementation, and advancement of marine survey technologies to keep DEA's operations competitive.
• Manage the lifecycle of vessels, instrumentation, and other marine assets to ensure reliability, readiness, and cost efficiency.

Compliance & Safety

• Ensure adherence to DEA contracting policies, firm-wide BD processes, and maritime safety standards.
• Provide oversight on projects and maintain alignment with regulatory requirements.
• Collaborate with DEA's Health & Safety team to maintain a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.

• Bachelor's degree in Hydrography, Oceanography, Geomatics, Marine Science, or a related discipline.
• 12+ years of experience in marine geophysical or hydrographic operations, including business development and operations leadership.
• Demonstrated ability to generate and sustain multimillion-dollar business lines.
• Proven leadership in growing teams, developing career paths, and aligning employee strengths with business needs.
• Strong project management, financial, and client development skills.
• Excellent communication and collaboration abilities, with a servant leadership style.

• NSPS-THSOA Hydrographer Certification or ability to obtain certification.
• California Professional Survey License or ability to obtain licensure in California.
• Experience with autonomous survey platforms (ROVs, AUVs, USVs) and AI-enabled workflows.
• Membership in professional associations such as MTS, THSOA, or related societies.
• Background in preventive maintenance and marine asset management.

We foster an environment where talented professionals have the freedom and support to do their most meaningful work. Our values and company culture form the foundation of our success, creating a positive and collaborative work environment. These guiding principles are vital to our continued achievements and unwavering commitment to improving the world around us.

As a member of our team, you will have the opportunity to cultivate and develop your skills and work alongside talented colleagues who are committed to improving the quality of life while demonstrating stewardship of the built and natural environments.

• Comprehensive health coverage: Medical, Dental, Vision, Disability, and Life Insurance
• Financial wellness: Health Savings Account (HSA) and Lifestyle Spending Account with employer contributions
• Professional development: Support for continuing education and training opportunities.
• Work-life balance: Paid Time Off (PTO) and Holiday Pay
• Retirement: 401k plan
• Wellbeing focus: Holistic Wellbeing Program centered on physical, emotional, financial, career, and community health
• Growth opportunities: Access to mentorship, professional support, and pathways for career advancement
• Potential salary range: $135,000 - $215,000

* The posted salary range represents the typical range for this position and is provided in accordance with applicable state and local transparency laws. Actual compensation will be commensurate with experience, qualifications, and geographic location.

If you are a recruiter, search agency, or otherwise wish to refer a candidate to DEA, you will not be compensated in any way for your referral of a candidate to DEA without an active and signed written agreement in place in advance with DEA Human Resources. Any resume submitted to any DEA employee by an external recruiter without a written agreement in place at the time of submission will be considered the property of DEA and DEA will not be liable for the payment of a placement fee. If you would like to notify DEA of your interest in initiating a written agreement for services or to resumes, please e-mail careers@deainc.com.

Potential office locations include: Long Beach, CA; Los Angeles, CA; Apple Valley, CA; Santa Clarita, CA.