Senior Environmental Project Manager

Position Overview

GAI Consultants, Inc. is seeking a Senior Environmental Project Manager to lead permitting and regulatory compliance efforts for inter- and intra- state energy infrastructure projects in the renewables, utilities and gas sectors. The role combines technical expertise with strategic project leadership, client engagement, and a business development mindset.

• Lead complex environmental permitting and regulatory strategy for power/energy projects across the full project lifecycle: routing/siting, NEPA documentation (EA/EIS), permitting, licensing and construction compliance.
• Serve as the primary client contact and agency liaison: facilitate and present at stakeholder meetings and public hearings; negotiate permitting pathways with USACE, USFWS, state wildlife agencies, SHPOs, and local jurisdictions.
• Develop long‑term client relationships to secure repeat business and act as a client account manager.
• Guide strategy and direct technical teams in the preparation, submission, and tracking of environmental studies for licensing/permit applications.
• Provide senior‑level review for technical studies, environmental documentation, and regulatory filings.
• Negotiate complex permit/licensing conditions and mitigation strategies with agencies and stakeholders.
• Manage multidisciplinary project teams, budgets, schedules, risks, and QA/QC processes to ensure timely and cost‑effective project delivery.
• Lead business development: identify opportunities, draft proposal strategies, and support account growth across energy infrastructure markets.
• Recruit, mentor, and train junior and mid‑level staff in environmental project management and regulatory compliance.

• Bachelor's degree in Environmental Science, Planning, Engineering, or a closely related discipline.
• Minimum 12 years leading environmental licensing and permitting for intrastate and interstate energy infrastructure projects, with proven expertise in Section 7(b)/7(c) filings under the Natural Gas Act, NEPA/CEQA documentation, and agency engagement.
• Strong project management skills with a track record of delivering multiple complex projects on time and on budget.
• Proven ability to author, manage, and review permit applications and technical studies supporting federal, state, and local regulatory documentation.
• Demonstrated business development, forecasting, and client relationship management experience within an environmental consulting setting.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills with proven ability to present at public hearings, agency, and stakeholder meetings.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office suite (MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
• Ability to travel up to 25% and maintain a valid driver's license.

• Master's Degree in Environmental Science, Planning, Engineering, or a closely related discipline.
• Experience with energy transition projects (hydrogen, CCUS, CO transport, renewables) and associated regulatory frameworks in the Midwest and Gulf states.
• Familiarity with EPC delivery environments and third‑party NEPA contracting.
• Proven track record of team leadership and project management with energy projects, including experience obtaining FERC authorizations for interstate energy projects on time and within budget.
• Established working relationships with FERC, USACE, USFWS, and related state regulatory agencies.
• Preferred candidates located in Texas or with extensive Texas, Arizona, or California project experience in the Midwest or Southwest US.

The salary range for this position is $130,000 to $170,000 per year, commensurate with experience.

• Competitive market‑based salary.
• Comprehensive benefits package: medical, vision, dental, long‑term disability, short‑term disability (start within 30 days of hire).
• New paid maternity/paternity/adoption program.
• Generous paid time off and 7 paid holidays.
• 401(k) company match.
• Tuition reimbursement.

GAI Consultants, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer and provides opportunities for all qualified individuals. The firm follows federal and state laws and regulations governing equal employment opportunity for all employees and job applicants.