Principal Consultant, Environmental Permitting

Are you ready to influence the next era of energy development? At ERM, we’re looking for a seasoned leader who thrives on complexity, drives strategic outcomes, and shapes industry standards. This is more than project management—it’s about guiding clients through the most challenging regulatory landscapes and leaving a lasting impact on the energy transition.

Energy infrastructure is at a turning point. As a Principal Consultant, Environmental Permitting, you’ll be the trusted advisor for major natural gas, LNG, and emerging energy projects—helping clients achieve compliance, sustainability, and success in a rapidly evolving market. Your expertise will directly influence policy, permitting, and the future of clean energy solutions.

• Lead permitting and compliance for Natural Gas Act-regulated projects nationwide.
• Serve as a strategic partner to clients, guiding projects from concept through operations.
• Represent ERM in industry forums and regulatory discussions, shaping policy and best practices.
• Expand ERM’s leadership in natural gas, LNG, hydrogen, renewables, and carbon sequestration.
• Drive business growth through client development and innovative project delivery.

Required:

• Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent experience) in Environmental Studies, Planning, Engineering, Geology, or related field.
• Prior consulting experience and FERC project expertise essential.
• 6+ years (10 preferred) in environmental impact assessment and permitting for FERC-regulated projects.
• At least 5 years managing large-scale natural gas and LNG permitting projects.
• Deep knowledge of NEPA and key natural resource regulations (Clean Water Act, Rivers and Harbors Act, NHPA, ESA).
• Proven ability to manage complex, multi-site projects on time and within budget.
• Exceptional communication skills for engaging clients, agencies, and stakeholders.

Preferred:

• Advanced degree in a relevant discipline.
• Experience with hydrogen, renewables, and carbon sequestration projects.
• Established industry network and demonstrated business development success.

• Manage large, multi-faceted projects, ensuring scope, budget, and timelines are met.
• Act as primary client contact and lead interdisciplinary teams through permitting and compliance phases.
• Oversee FERC applications and coordinate with federal, state, and local agencies.
• Develop technical proposals, identify new opportunities, and maintain strong client relationships.
• Represent ERM in strategic regulatory meetings and industry forums.
• Ensure quality control across environmental impact assessments and compliance deliverables.

For the Principal Consultant, Environmental Permitting position, the anticipated annual base pay is $110,000 - $161,00 (USD). Actual pay will depend on factors such as education, experience, skills, location, performance, and business needs. In some cases, pay may fall outside this range. This role may be eligible for bonus pay subject to the sole discretion of ERM and its policies and procedures (casual and fixed term/flex force employees are not bonus eligible).

• Paid time off (vacation, sick, and floating holidays)
• Parental leave
• Medical
• Dental
• Vision
• Life
• Disability
• AD&D insurance
• 401(k)
• Other applicable benefits to eligible employees

As the largest global pure play sustainability consultancy, we partner with the world’s leading organizations, creating innovative solutions to sustainability challenges and unlocking commercial opportunities that meet the needs of today while preserving opportunity for future generations.

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