Principal Environmental Planner,
📍 San Francisco, CA (Hybrid/Remote)
The Opportunity
A growing environmental consulting team is looking for a senior leader to drive complex planning and permitting efforts across California. This role sits at the intersection of technical delivery, client advisory, and business growth - ideal for someone who can operate as both a subject matter expert and a strategic partner to clients.
You’ll play a key role in shaping project strategy, navigating regulatory pathways, and guiding multidisciplinary teams across high-impact infrastructure, utilities, and environmental programs.
What You’ll Be Responsible For
- Directing environmental planning and compliance efforts from early-stage strategy through approvals and delivery
- Acting as a trusted advisor to clients - providing regulatory insight, risk assessment, and pragmatic solutions
- Coordinating closely with internal specialists as well as external stakeholders and agencies
- Leading and contributing to business development efforts, including proposals, pricing strategies, and client presentations
- Overseeing quality control of technical deliverables across multiple concurrent projects
- Managing project performance - staffing, budgets, timelines, and execution
- Mentoring junior and mid-level staff, supporting technical development and career progression
- Supporting broader growth initiatives alongside senior leadership
What You Bring
- Degree in environmental planning, environmental science, biology, or a related discipline (advanced degree a plus)
- ~15+ years of experience in environmental consulting, planning, or permitting
- Deep understanding of California environmental regulations and land use processes (CEQA expertise highly relevant)
- Proven experience managing permitting processes and engaging with relevant agencies
- Track record of leading multidisciplinary teams and delivering complex projects independently
- Experience managing and developing staff in a consulting environment
- Demonstrated success in winning work and leading competitive pursuits
- Strong technical writing and review capabilities across environmental documentation
- Willingness to travel within California as needed
