Adaptation Planning Manager

Job Information

Job Category

Environmental

Company Name

CMG Landscape Architecture

Position Level

Managerial

Job Description

Over the past decade, CMG has established itself as a leader in resilience and adaptation planning and design across the Bay Area. We have helped lead San Francisco’s Waterfront Resilience Program, are leading the OAAC ADAPT team in developing Alameda and Oakland’s Regional Shoreline Adaptation Plan and are partnering with communities throughout the region on transformative coastal flood protection projects. As climate challenges accelerate, the need for bold, design-driven, science-based adaptation leadership has never been greater. To meet that moment, we are growing our resilience and adaptation planning team. We are seeking a landscape architect, urban designer, or planner to lead high-impact adaptation planning and design projects. Note, that although the focus is currently on planning efforts, we believe strong design skills are an integral part of job. In this role, you will draw on your expertise in urban and adaptation planning, design, climate science, coastal ecology, and regional landscape systems to lead ambitious climate adaptation planning efforts. You will bring a strong grasp of big-picture systems and long-term change, paired with the ability to guide strategic, practical, and collaborative processes with multidisciplinary teams, stakeholders, and communities. We are seeking a person who will:
  • Lead innovative climate adaptation planning processes and shape forward-looking adaptation strategies.
  • Partner closely with principals to direct complex, multidisciplinary consultant teams, client groups, and stakeholders.
  • Build trusted relationships that advance project goals and strengthen collaboration across teams.
  • Design and lead effective community and stakeholder engagement processes using strong communication and facilitation skills.
  • Drive project delivery, including fees, work plans, and teaming strategies.
  • Help strengthen workplace culture and institutional knowledge by sharing ideas and information across the practice.
To apply, please email the following materials as a single PDF to [email protected] with “ADAPTATION PLANNING MANAGER” included in the subject line:
  • Cover letter (500 words maximum).
  • Resume.
  • Portfolio of planning and design work, including clear descriptions of your role and responsibilities for each project.
  • References – at least two.
  • Submit a single PDF combining all the materials above. 15MB maximum.
  • Links will not be considered.

Required Skills / Experience / Education

Resilience and adaptation planning demand cross-disciplinary thinking, design fluency, and strong project leadership. We are seeking a mid-level professional with experience spanning disciplines and urban planning and design. Most of all, we are looking for a passionate, capable person ready to deepen the skills outlined below and help shape this growing area of practice. We hope to find someone with: • A degree in landscape architecture, urban design, and/or urban planning. • 5 – 10+ years professional experience in landscape architecture, architecture, planning, or urban design. • Experience with climate science, vulnerability and risk assessment, and adaptation strategies for coastal or inland flooding and/or other climate risks. • Strong project management and consultant coordination experience. • Excellent communication and organizational skills. • Experience with community engagement methods. • Experience with ArcGIS and the ability to analyze large data sets. • Ability to translate complex planning data and concepts into clear, engaging graphics and narratives. • Working knowledge of how to carry planning or design ideas through to implementation. • Ability to manage digital design tools and workflows. We work in highly collaborative teams and place real value on the distinct strengths, perspectives, and initiative each person brings to the studio. We’d love to connect if you: • Take initiative, own the accuracy of your work, and ask for help when needed. • Bring both independence and enthusiasm to design studies and technical documentation. • Enjoy finding creative solutions to complex challenges. • Value others’ input, see dialogue as essential to constructive review, and approach work with curiosity. • Can thoughtfully develop and guide processes for colleagues and clients toward a shared goal. • Live in the San Francisco Bay Area and can work in our studio weekly.

US Citizenship Required?

Yes

Will security clearance be required?

No

Salary Range

$100,000-$125,000

Application Deadline

07/24/2026

Position Type

Permanent Full-Time

Travel

None

Primary Language Required

English

Industry

Landscape Architecture

Job Location

Location Address

444 Bryant St
San Francisco, California
94107

Contact Information

Hiring Contact Name

Lauren Bergenholtz

Email

[email protected]

Website

https://www.cmgsite.com/practice/careers/