Selection process developed by matteria

La Paz, Baja California Sur, Mexico - Hybrid

Who we are

The Center for Applied Dryland Water Studies (CADWS) is a research and innovation center dedicated to advancing water security, ecological regeneration, and watershed resilience in arid and semi-arid regions. Based in Baja California Sur, CADWS integrates applied science, local knowledge, fieldwork, and cross-sector collaboration with communities, academia, government, and the private sector to develop real solutions to water scarcity.
Its purpose is clear: to turn drylands into living laboratories for sustainability and regenerative hydrology.

CADWS is part of a broader initiative supported by Innovaciones Alumbra (iAlumbra), an ecosystem committed to catalyzing models of economic development that restore nature, strengthen communities, and promote sustainable prosperity.
Through investments, operating companies, philanthropy, and strategic alliances, Alumbra advances regenerative initiatives across ocean, land, and place, with a strong focus on Baja California Sur.

Our impact

Impact (CADWS) in numbers:

• Over 200 hectares of land under regenerative management in Baja California Sur.
• Pilot projects on managed aquifer recharge (MAR), enhancing groundwater recovery in the Los Planes watershed.
• Alliances with local and international partners, including universities, NGOs, and private sector stakeholders.
• Applied research and knowledge-sharing initiatives bridging science, policy, and community practice.

Purpose of the Position

The Water and Sanitation Manager will lead the design, coordination, and implementation of integrated water systems across CADWS and iAlumbra’s operations.

This role ensures innovation, ecological efficiency, and sustainability in all water-related projects, from potable water and wastewater systems to desalination and aquifer recharge, advancing CADWS’s mission of regenerative water management in arid landscapes.

Key Responsibilities

• Project Design and Coordination: Lead the design, planning, and supervision of water-related infrastructure projects, including potable water, wastewater, desalination, and groundwater recharge systems.
• Supervision: Oversee and mentor the Field Coordinator, ensuring data accuracy and integration of fieldwork into broader hydrological planning.
• Innovation and Sustainability: Incorporate nature-based solutions, low-carbon technologies, and circular water management practices.
• Permitting and Compliance: Ensure compliance with Mexican regulatory frameworks (CONAGUA, SEMARNAT, municipal authorities).
• Cross-team Collaboration: Work with CADWS and iAlumbra units (land operations, tourism, agroecology, and construction) to strengthen hydrological design and implementation.
• Budget and Administration: Develop project budgets, supplier benchmarks, and procurement processes aligned with CADWS’s financial management standards.
• Data and GIS Management: Use GIS tools (ArcGIS) for integrating spatial data into technical reports, diagnostics, and planning documents.
• Representation: Engage with partners, universities, and community stakeholders, showcasing CADWS’s applied research and sustainable water management initiatives.

Requirements and competences to work with us

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in Hydraulic, Civil, Environmental, or Sanitary Engineering (mandatory).
• Master’s degree in Water Resources, Hydraulics, or related engineering fields (mandatory).

Experience

• 10+ years in the design, implementation, and supervision of:
• Climate resilience through ecosystem restoration.
• Community
• Proven experience in arid or semi-arid environments.
• Familiarity with Mexican environmental and water-use regulations.
  
• Proven experience in arid or semi-arid environments.
• Familiarity with Mexican environmental and water-use regulations.

Knowledge and Skills

• Advanced use of GIS (ArcGIS) for project monitoring and data integration.
• Strong understanding of water purification, treatment, and reuse technologies.
• Proven skills in project budgeting, procurement, and supplier management.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills for cross-sector collaboration.
• Fluent in Spanish and English (spoken and written).

Competencies

• Strategic and analytical thinking
• Problem-solving and adaptability
• Technical leadership and mentoring
• Integrity and accountability
• Resilience and teamwork under field conditions

Our team profile

At CADWS, our culture is rooted in curiosity, integrity, and regeneration. We are a mission-driven team that believes in combining scientific rigor with empathy for people and ecosystems. Collaboration, humility, and innovation are not just values—they are daily practices.
Organizational DNA:

• Regenerative mindset and respect for nature.
  
• Evidence-based decision-making and transparency.
  
• Collaboration across disciplines and communities.

Key interests for working with us

• We are committed to addressing one of the most pressing global challenges: water scarcity in arid zones.

Our work contributes to:

• Climate resilience through ecosystem restoration.
• Community well-being via sustainable water access.
• Knowledge democratization by sharing applied science for social good

Reasons to join our team

• The opportunity to lead one of the most innovative water regeneration programs in Latin America.
• A collaborative environment within the Alumbra ecosystem—where business meets sustainability.
• Competitive compensation aligned with managerial-level positions.
• Health insurance and relocation support for national candidates.

Relevant details before applying for this vacancy

• Contract Type: Permanent (with 3–6 month trial period).
• Work Format: Hybrid – La Paz, Baja California Sur, Mexico.
• Preferred Start Date: January 2026.
• Languages: English and Spanish fluency required.