Managing Consultant, Scientist

Lead the Future of Renewable Energy Permitting with ERM Are you ready to shape the environmental landscape for some of the most impactful renewable energy projects in the U.S.? At ERM, we’re not just managing projects—we’re driving sustainable progress. As a Managing Consultant, Scientist, based in Cincinnati, OH, you’ll play a strategic role in guiding permitting processes for solar, wind, transmission, and other large-scale developments, ensuring compliance while influencing the future of clean energy infrastructure.

This position is pivotal to ERM’s mission of delivering innovative environmental solutions for capital projects across the eastern U.S. Your expertise will help clients navigate complex regulatory frameworks, accelerate renewable energy deployment, and meet critical sustainability goals. You’ll be the trusted advisor who ensures projects move forward responsibly and efficiently.

• Lead permitting and biological field assessments for renewable energy and transmission projects.
• Drive compliance with NEPA and state‑level environmental reviews for large‑scale developments.
• Build lasting client relationships and contribute to ERM’s growth in the southeastern market.
• Mentor and develop junior consultants, shaping the next generation of environmental leaders.

• BS/MS in biology, ecology, or environmental sciences, or equivalent experience.
• 4–6 years of due diligence and permitting experience (7–10 years preferred).
• Proven expertise in wetland delineations, habitat assessments, and species‑specific surveys.
• Strong knowledge of biological impact assessment and permitting practices.
• Experience with federal, state, and local permitting in GA, NC, SC, and VA.
• Excellent communication, writing, and client relationship skills.
• Driver’s License
  
  Required:
  
  valid driver’s license and/or ability to operate a company vehicle due to frequent travel to client locations.
• Commitment to safety and adherence to Health & Safety protocols.
• Not eligible for immigration sponsorship.
• Preferred:
  Solar project experience.
• Federally permitted bat biologist credentials.
• Established reputation and technical expertise in the local marketplace.
• Ability to influence and lead teams effectively.

• Manage and provide technical expertise on wetland and Waters of the U.S. delineations, habitat assessments, and species‑specific surveys.
• Lead preparation of local, state, and federal permitting documents and ensure quality standards.
• Oversee multiple projects within scope, budget, and schedule expectations.
• Prepare technical proposals, scopes, and cost estimates; support business development efforts.
• Collaborate with ERM practitioners on Impact Assessment and Permitting (IAP) projects.
• Supervise and mentor junior and mid‑level staff to build technical and leadership capabilities.
• Maintain awareness of regional projects and staffing needs; assist in recruiting efforts.
• Build strong collaborative relationships across ERM’s regional and national teams.

For the Managing Consultant, Impact Assessment and Permitting position, the anticipated annual base pay is $94,990–$124,245 (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 (casual and fixed‑term/flex‑force employees are not bonus eligible). We offer a comprehensive benefits package, including paid time off, parental leave, medical, dental, vision, life, disability, AD&D insurance, 401(k) or RRSP/DPSP, and other applicable benefits to eligible employees.

Note:

Bonuses, commissions, and other forms of additional compensation are not guaranteed and subject to the sole discretion of ERM and its policies and procedures.

ERM is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. We do not discriminate based upon race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability, or other applicable legally protected characteristics.