Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Awards
Leadership Training
Selective Accomplishments
Timeline
Generic

David van Rijn

West Sacramento

Summary

Dynamic leader with extensive experience at the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation and Army Corps of Engineers. Excelling in program and project management of water resource initiatives. Proven track record in stakeholder engagement and strategic planning, successfully directing multi-million dollar initiatives. Adept at fostering team collaboration and achieving compliance with federal regulations, while optimizing resource allocation for impactful outcomes.

Overview

32
32
years of professional experience

Work History

Deputy Program Manager

U.S. Bureau of Reclamation, Regional Office
Sacramento
07.2022 - 04.2025
  • Led planning, design, construction, permitting, and land acquisition for two infrastructure projects exceeding one billion dollars.
  • Supervised a diverse team in creating solutions for fish passage, channel capacity, water delivery and habitat restoration.
  • Project features including fish ladders, screens, recovery facilities, flumes, levees, flood plain habitats and river bypass channels.
  • Coordinated with 10 water districts, environmental groups, and federal and state agencies to achieve program objectives.
  • Negotiated effectively to balance competing interests among stakeholders while developing schedules and budgets.
  • Ensured compliance with federal and state laws, including NEPA, ESA, and Clean Water Act regulations.
  • Oversaw land acquisition for approximately 6,000 acres while pursuing an additional 2,500 acres for program needs.
  • Implemented accountability measures and initiated regular meetings to enhance transparency within the program.

Chief of Staff

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, U.S. Bureau of Reclamation
San Francisco, Sacramento
09.2020 - 07.2022
  • Directed operations as Chief of Staff for Corps of Engineers South Pacific Division, with 2,500 personnel in 5 Districts across ten states.
  • Ensuring effective implementation of Division activities and execution of an annual budget of approximately $2.2 billion.
  • Collaborated with senior staff to standardize processes for onboarding, awards, morale initiatives, and event management.
  • Established strategic engagement plans to enhance relationships with key stakeholders, Congressional members and federal agencies.
  • Served as liaison to HQ in Washington D.C., addressing union matters and coordinating VIP visits.
  • Led development of Communities of Practice to enhance efficiency and reduce redundancy within SPD.
  • Implemented new SharePoint document tracking system, significantly improving correspondence response times.
  • Streamlined hiring processes in collaboration with HR, facilitating reassimilation of deactivated Border District staff.

Regional Planning Officer

U.S. Bureau of Reclamation, Regional Office
Sacramento
08.2017 - 09.2020
  • Oversaw five Area Offices and two specialty offices across three states in Planning Studies preparation.
  • Led a diverse team to deliver technical expertise in planning, economics, hydraulic modeling, and Title XVI Program.
  • Ensured adherence to Directives & Standards during planning studies, including NEPA and ESA compliance.
  • Advised Department of Interior staff and leadership on prioritization and activities within Planning Office.
  • Reviewed draft legislation and policies for impacts on planning, economic, and hydraulic modeling initiatives.
  • Supervised development of schedules and budgets for Regional Planning Projects.
  • Elected Chair of Reclamation’s Planning Group to interpret legislation and ensure proper implementation.
  • Collaborated with various stakeholders on feasibility studies to identify water needs and secure funding.

Detail - Director of Policy and Administration

U.S. Bureau Of Reclamation
Denver
01.2020 - 03.2020
  • Led a team of six employees in Commissioner’s Reclamation Law Division to interpret laws and provide guidance on implementation.
  • Reviewed documents for compliance with Reclamation’s policies and regulations.
  • Developed processes for implementing Major Rehabilitation and Replacement policies for existing assets.
  • Prepared guidance on definitions of terms related to Water Infrastructure Improvement for the Nation (WIIN) legislation.
  • Reviewed draft legislation for Commissioner to present to Senators and Congressional representatives.
  • Delivered briefings to Directors of Policy and Program, and Reclamation Law Administration Division.

Science Division Cheif

U.S. Bureau of Reclamation, Bay Delta Office
Sacramento
01.2010 - 07.2017
  • Supervised and managed Bay Delta Office’s Science Division with annual budget of $20–30 million.
  • Implemented various science programs within complex ecosystems, leading a staff of nine.
  • Represented Reclamation’s Regional Director in various science-related forums.
  • Collaborated with Area Manager on developing policies, setting priorities, and reviewing legislation related to science and the Bay Delta objectives.
  • Coordinated integration of Reclamation’s science program with Federal, State, and local efforts.
  • Identified opportunities to maximize funding and staffing resources for science initiatives.
  • Developed budgets, schedules, and strategies for sensitive science activities related to operations and implementation NMFS reasonable and prudent alternatives.
  • Monitored risks to projects and adjusted plans accordingly.

Detail - Program Manager

U.S. Bureau of Reclamation, San Joaquin River Restoration Program
Sacramento
08.2016 - 01.2017
  • Directed San Joaquin River Restoration Program with annual budget of approximately $35 million.
  • Supervised a team of approximately 18 staff, optimizing resource allocation and performance.
  • Assumed various management roles within San Joaquin River Restoration Program during temporary promotion.
  • Coordinated efforts across multiple projects to drive successful outcomes.
  • Ensured compliance with federal regulations and guidelines throughout project execution.
  • Facilitated communication among stakeholders to align objectives and priorities.

Detail - Deputy Area Manager

U.S. Bureau of Reclamation, Bay Delta Office
Sacramento
01.2016 - 03.2016
  • Oversaw responsibilities as Science Division Chief while collaborating with Area Manager to ensure timely completion of all Bay Delta Office initiatives, including management of California Water Fix project and budget staffing.

Section Chief

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Civil Works
Sacramento
03.2009 - 01.2010
  • Led team of 13 project managers to deliver over 30 water resource projects within a $30 million annual budget.
  • Executed large-scale watershed studies, dam safety programs, and ecosystem restoration initiatives.
  • Cultivated strong partnerships with project sponsors, stakeholders, and resource agencies.
  • Participated in executive meetings to guide direction for complex district projects, including Lake Isabella dam safety initiative.

Detail - Deputy Branch Chief

US Army Corps of Engineers, Sacramento District
Sacramento
03.2009 - 12.2009
  • Executed duties as Deputy of Civil Works Branch for nine months while managing Senior Project Manager workload.
  • Collaborated with Branch Chief to restructure the Branch into three sections.
  • Reorganization enhanced supervisor-to-staff ratio, introducing more leadership and mentorship opportunities.
  • Achieved improved morale, work quality, and sustainable workload through structural changes.

Senior Project Manager

U.S. Army Corps of Egnieers, Sacramento District
Sacramento
03.2008 - 12.2009

Served as primary contact for seven complex District projects, ensuring effective management and execution.

Managed multi-disciplinary teams, developing project management plans, budgets, and schedules to meet deadlines.

  • Led Corps' first project utilizing cost allocations, securing authorization for Hamilton City ecosystem restoration.
  • Oversaw District's largest watershed study spanning over 43,000 square miles, impacting 25 million water users.
  • Communicated with sponsors and stakeholders on sensitive issues to ensure compliance with Federal regulations.
  • Briefed high-level officials, including Assistant Secretary of the Army, on project status and challenges.
  • Volunteered thirty days in New Orleans as Quality Assurance Supervisor during Hurricane Katrina response.
  • Reinstated employee survey to identify trends and develop solutions for staff concerns through two terms as Chair of Employee Council.

Detail - Programs Appropriation Manager

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Headquarters
Washington D.C.
10.2007 - 03.2008
  • Assisted with the distribution of $2.4 billion in Operation and Maintenance funds for critical infrastructure projects.
  • Served as Operation and Maintenance Account Manager at Corps Headquarters during detail assignment.
  • Assisted in management of funds supporting National priorities, ensuring efficient allocation.

Project Manager

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Sacramento District
Sacramento
11.2003 - 03.2008
  • Served as primary contact for seven complex District projects, ensuring effective communication and resolution.
  • Managed multi-disciplinary teams to develop project management plans, budgets, and schedules while maintaining adherence.
  • Directed Corps' first project utilizing cost allocations, resulting in successful authorization of Hamilton City ecosystem restoration.
  • Oversaw largest watershed study covering over 43,000 square miles, impacting water supply for 25 million people.
  • Communicated effectively with sponsors and stakeholders on sensitive issues to ensure compliance with Federal regulations.
  • Briefed high-level appointees and executives, including Assistant Secretary of the Army, on project progress.
  • Volunteered thirty days in New Orleans as Quality Assurance Supervisor during Hurricane Katrina response.
  • Developed mandatory New Employee Orientation Program, receiving positive feedback from participants.

Ecologist

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
Sacramento
06.2001 - 11.2003
  • Performed Section Chief duties for up to 30 days, ensuring quality control of environmental documents.
  • Mentored junior environmental specialists on regulations and Corps policies, fostering professional development.
  • Led multi-agency teams in crafting multifunctional mitigation and monitoring plans.
  • Established first multi-agency Adaptive Management Teams in Sacramento District, enhancing collaboration.
  • Selected for Sacramento District and South Pacific Division 2002 Leadership Development Program.
  • Initiated National Share and Learn Conference within Corps to promote knowledge sharing.
  • Prepared and negotiated multi-year contracts for monitoring restoration sites focusing on vegetation, water quality, and fish species.
  • Conducted assessments of diverse environmental projects to ensure compliance with regulations.

Biologist

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Seattle District
Seattle
01.1999 - 06.2001
  • Executed Water Quality Program for Seattle District, enhancing water quality and allocation for endangered species.
  • Formulated and conducted studies to optimize water quality and allocation practices.
  • Implemented new reservoir operations to improve water conditions for endangered species.
  • Represented Corps in multi-agency committees, shaping regulations on water management.
  • Participated in District Emergency Operations team, managing Corps reservoirs to mitigate flood risks.
  • Collaborated with Instream Flow Commission and Columbia River Transboundary Gas Group on policy development.
  • Regulated multiple reservoirs to prevent flood damage in densely populated regions during tenure.

Regulatory Project Manager

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Seattle District
Seattle
01.1994 - 01.1999
  • Reviewed permit applications and investigated violations for compliance with Section 10 of Rivers and Harbor Act and Section 404 of Clean Water Act.
  • Coordinated Section 7 consultations with U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
  • Managed up to 50 application and violation projects simultaneously.
  • Participated in two-year Department of the Army career development program.

Student Intern

Bureau of Land Management
Anchorage
05.1993 - 06.1993
  • Performed vegetation, water quality, and waterfowl surveys in remote Alaska tundra wilderness.

Education

Graduate Studies - Biogeochemistry

George Mason University
Fairfax, VA

B.S. - Biology & Environmental Management

George Mason University
Fairfax, VA

High School Diploma -

Hayfield High School
Alexandria, VA

Skills

  • Program and project management
  • Stakeholder engagement
  • Team leadership
  • Strategic planning

Awards

  • Hiring incentive (cash), 2020
  • Hiring incentive (cash), 2022
  • Performance Award, 2019
  • Performance Award, 2020
  • Performance Award, 2022
  • Performance Award, 2023
  • Team Award (cash), 2019
  • Team Award (cash), 2020
  • Two Team Awards (cash), 2019
  • With-in Grade Increase, 2019

Leadership Training

  • Contracting Officer Representative Level II, 2024
  • Grants Officer Representative, 2024
  • Construction Management Training, 2024
  • Mandatory supervisory training, 2017-2023
  • Ethics, 2017-2023
  • Professional Coaching, 2019-2020
  • True Colors, 2019
  • Creating a Culture of Civility Within Reclamation’s Workplace, 2019

Selective Accomplishments

  • Working across Headquarters/National, Division, Regional, and District levels, I led teams to develop a new method of cost allocation for multi-purposes projects, a new project purpose category, and phase identification. These efforts improved how Army Corps and Reclamation assess feasibility studies, determined authorization, utilized appropriations for large infrastructure projects, and set cost shares ratios.
  • Provided strategic leadership to improve effectiveness and efficiencies in organizations and mission execution at the National, Regional and District levels. I improved Reclamations’ Planning Group to be more effective and useful, changed the Community of Practice (CoP) for Chief of Staffs to become effective and consistent and developed the CoP for Administrative staff, for Executive Officers, and Planners. Set up the Employee Council, Employee survey, Civil Works 101 training at the Corps. I also developed a modeling group, so Reclamation didn’t have to hire contractors to run the water operations models.
  • Provided review and interpretation of bill language, court orders, and legislation to high management. Supervised the implementation of these legal directives. Some examples of this are the American Recovery Act, Water Infrastructure for the Nation, and legislations for the authorizing and appropriations committees.
  • Driving results of multi-million- and billion-dollar infrastructure projects and programs through the development of strategic implementation plans that are focused on budgets, schedules and accountable. These projects and programs included the San Joaquin River Restoration Program, Isabella Dam, Sites Reservoir, Temperance Flat, Los Vaqueros, Shasta Dam Raise, Del Puerto Canyon Reservoir, San Louis Low Point Improvement Project, Water Smart Program and the Hamilton City Riparian Restoration project.

Timeline

Deputy Program Manager

U.S. Bureau of Reclamation, Regional Office
07.2022 - 04.2025

Chief of Staff

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, U.S. Bureau of Reclamation
09.2020 - 07.2022

Detail - Director of Policy and Administration

U.S. Bureau Of Reclamation
01.2020 - 03.2020

Regional Planning Officer

U.S. Bureau of Reclamation, Regional Office
08.2017 - 09.2020

Detail - Program Manager

U.S. Bureau of Reclamation, San Joaquin River Restoration Program
08.2016 - 01.2017

Detail - Deputy Area Manager

U.S. Bureau of Reclamation, Bay Delta Office
01.2016 - 03.2016

Science Division Cheif

U.S. Bureau of Reclamation, Bay Delta Office
01.2010 - 07.2017

Section Chief

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Civil Works
03.2009 - 01.2010

Detail - Deputy Branch Chief

US Army Corps of Engineers, Sacramento District
03.2009 - 12.2009

Senior Project Manager

U.S. Army Corps of Egnieers, Sacramento District
03.2008 - 12.2009

Detail - Programs Appropriation Manager

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Headquarters
10.2007 - 03.2008

Project Manager

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Sacramento District
11.2003 - 03.2008

Ecologist

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
06.2001 - 11.2003

Biologist

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Seattle District
01.1999 - 06.2001

Regulatory Project Manager

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Seattle District
01.1994 - 01.1999

Student Intern

Bureau of Land Management
05.1993 - 06.1993

Graduate Studies - Biogeochemistry

George Mason University

B.S. - Biology & Environmental Management

George Mason University

High School Diploma -

Hayfield High School
David van Rijn