Environmental Planner

Job Description

CEQA/NEPA Project Technical Lead

Preferred locations for this position include Greater Los Angeles and Southern California.

Join our dynamic team and drive CDM Smith's success as a Project Technical Leader for CEQA/NEPA projects in Southern California, where you'll shape the future of environmental compliance.

Lead and orchestrate the technical direction of CEQA/NEPA projects by championing innovative solutions, guaranteeing technical excellence, assembling the optimal team at critical moments, mentoring emerging talent, and fostering strong client partnerships. Additional responsibilities include.

• Provide hands‑on technical leadership and strategic oversight of CEQA/NEPA environmental and planning projects.
• Developing project documentation of proposed activities for compliance, with federal and state environmental/planning regulations and guidance.
• Craft compelling and technically rigorous reports that influence environmental policy and decision‑making.
• Providing quality reviews of CEQA/NEPA documents/projects.
• Champion the development of emerging professionals through mentorship and advanced training, building the next generation of CEQA/NEPA experts.
• May supervise the work of junior planning and environmental staff on project work.

Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering, Urban, Community or Regional Planning or related discipline. AICP, PTP, PE, CEP or approved certification in a related field. Or Master's degree in Civil Engineering, Urban, Community or Regional Planning or related discipline. 10 years of related experience with a Bachelor's degree or 9 years of experience with Master's degree. Domestic and/or international travel may be required.

The frequency of travel is contingent on specific duties, responsibilities, and the essential functions of the position, which may vary depending on workload and project demands. Equivalent additional directly related experience will be considered in lieu of a degree.

• Expertise/knowledge of CEQA and NEPA processes and requirements.
• Expertise in writing CEQA and NEPA documents for a variety of agencies and project types and sizes.
• Transit and Aviation CEQA/NEPA experience.

Master complex principles and innovative methods for large‑scale land use planning, with deep insight into strategic cost‑benefit analysis and sustainable development solutions. Expert knowledge of laws, legal codes, court procedures, precedents, government regulations, executive orders, agency rules, and the democratic political process. Expert knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. This includes applying principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to the design and production of various goods and services.

Exceptional ability to communicate complex technical concepts with clarity and persuasion to diverse audiences, from clients to regulatory agencies.

10% or less

We attract the best people in the industry, supporting their efforts to learn and grow. We strive to create a challenging and progressive work environment. We provide career opportunities that span a variety of disciplines and geographic locations, with projects that our employees plan, design, build and operate as diverse as the needs of our clients. CDM Smith Inc. and its divisions and subsidiaries are an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, pregnancy related conditions, childbirth and related medical conditions, sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression), national origin, age, marital status, physical or mental disability, veteran status, citizenship status, genetic information or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.

CDM Smith Inc. and its divisions and subsidiaries (hereafter collectively referred to as “CDM Smith”) reserves the right to require background checks including criminal, employment, education, licensure, etc. as well as credit and motor vehicle…