Consulting Director, Power, Energy & Regulatory Advisory

Are you ready to lead transformative environmental projects that power communities and drive sustainable innovation? ERM is seeking a visionary Consulting Director to join our high-growth Capital Project Delivery team. This leadership opportunity will influence the future of renewable energy and infrastructure development across California.

About the Role

ERM’s Capital Project Delivery (CPD) service is our fastest-growing global offering, expanding over 20% annually. With more than 1,000 professionals worldwide, our CPD team tackles the toughest environmental challenges in power, technology, telecom, mining, and infrastructure sectors. This role is pivotal in advancing ERM’s reputation and capabilities in California’s electric/gas transmission and renewable energy markets. You’ll be at the forefront of environmental permitting, regulatory strategy, and stakeholder engagement—helping clients achieve project success while protecting natural and cultural resources.

Responsibilities

• Lead environmental permitting and CEQA/NEPA efforts for major capital projects, including renewable energy, transmission, and data centers.
• Shape regulatory strategies and negotiate with key agencies such as the California Coastal Commission, USFWS, and CPUC.
• Drive business growth through strategic client relationships, leveraging existing contracts with California public utilities.
• Mentor and develop high-performing teams, fostering a culture of excellence and innovation.
• Contribute to ERM’s global leadership community, with potential eligibility for our Partner Path after your first year.
• Serve as a senior technical expert for CEQA/NEPA assessments and natural resource permitting.
• Oversee preparation of EIRs, Mitigated Negative Declarations, and technical studies.
• Lead permit strategy development and application processes with state and federal agencies.
• Manage compliance for linear infrastructure projects, including telecom and energy.
• Collaborate with Account Directors to expand ERM’s footprint and deliver enterprise-wide solutions.
• Mentor staff consultants, identify emerging talent, and support career development.
• Innovate within ERM’s Impact Assessment and Planning services to stay ahead of market needs.
• Ensure excellence in health & safety, financial performance, client satisfaction, and risk management.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in biology, environmental science, or related field (or equivalent experience).
• 8+ years of consulting experience in California’s electric/gas transmission and generation markets.
• Proven success in leading CEQA/NEPA permitting and environmental impact assessments.
• Established relationships with California utility companies with the ability to leverage existing contract agreements to unlock new project opportunities.
• Experience with CPUC General Order 131-E and CEQA best practices.
• Business acumen and strategic selling capabilities.
• Leadership skills with a passion for mentoring and team development.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s degree in biology, environmental science, or related field.
• 15+ years of consulting experience.
• Recognized technical expertise and positive reputation with key regulators.

Pay

The anticipated annual base pay is $145,482 – $183,509 (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.

Benefits

• Comprehensive benefits package, including paid time off and parental leave.
• Medical, dental, vision, life, disability, and AD&D insurance.
• 401(k) or RRSP/DPSP.

As the largest global pure play sustainability consultancy, ERM partners with leading organizations to create innovative solutions to sustainability challenges. Our diverse team of experts supports clients across their organizations to operationalize sustainability, addressing environmental, health, safety, risk, and social issues.