Meet Rick Warner

With a career spanning more than 36 years in the water sector, Rick Warner is a nationally recognized leader in integrated water resource management, water recycling and public utility planning. Based in Reno, Nevada and working predominately from Jacobs’ offices in San Franciso, California and Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Rick serves as Jacobs’ Water Market Strategic Growth Leader for the Americas, where he works with communities to develop and implement transformative water infrastructure strategies.

Rick’s journey began in the lab as a chemist at the Truckee Meadows Water Reclamation Facility in Nevada, where he honed his technical expertise in environmental compliance and process optimization. Over the years, he has held leadership roles in public utilities, private consulting, and national water organizations — bringing a unique blend of technical depth, strategic vision and collaborative spirit to every project.

He has led regional initiatives like OneWater Nevada, a pioneering potable reuse program, and founded the Nevada Water Innovation Institute and Partnering for Impact, both of which foster innovation and collaboration across the water sector. His work has helped shape regulatory frameworks, pilot advanced technologies and engage diverse stakeholders in meaningful dialogue. Rick’s expertise lies in helping communities navigate the intersection of water scarcity, climate resilience and infrastructure modernization. With a deep background in integrated capital improvement planning, he has led efforts across drinking water, wastewater, stormwater and water recycling systems — creating sustainable, multi-benefit solutions that balance technical, environmental and social priorities. 

At Jacobs, Rick continues to lead strategic growth efforts for water mega markets, helping clients implement regional programs that deliver affordable, equitable and lasting results. His work bridges technical excellence with community engagement, delivering infrastructure that reflects the values and needs of the people it serves.

Rick has served as president of the Water Environment Federation (WEF), director of the Water Research Foundation (WRF) and chair of independent expert panels for the National Water Research Institute (NWRI). He has also contributed to national initiatives with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), State Department and WateReuse Association.

With a passion for mentoring and a commitment to public service, Rick continues to shape the future of water through thought leadership, advocacy and collaboration.