Director of Environmental Planning

About the role

The Director of Environmental Planning at Environmental Science Associates (ESA) is a leadership position in the Northern California area. The ideal candidate will lead a team of environmental professionals, manage complex projects, and pursue new business opportunities.

Responsibilities

• Lead large, complex projects and tasks as well as serve as a technical specialist.
• Develop technical approaches and strategies to address project issues for a wide range of complex environmental planning studies and interdisciplinary projects.
• Manage the overall project life cycle, from developing project proposals to overseeing day-to-day project assignments and tracking financial performance.
• Mentor and support junior and mid-level staff, providing career development guidance and constructive feedback.
• Represent ESA in the marketplace, participating in and leading client meetings, and presenting at community workshops and public hearings.
• Participate in marketing and business development efforts, contributing to proposal development and strategic reviews.

Requirements

• A minimum of 20 years of experience leading complex projects and guiding high-performing teams in California, with a bachelor's degree or a master's degree with 18 years of relevant experience.
• Proven ability to serve as a primary author or senior reviewer of specialized and complex environmental documents.
• Comprehensive knowledge of NEPA, CEQA, and similar state/federal regulations.
• Experience managing the project life cycle, from proposal development to oversight and financial performance.
• Excellent communication skills and ability to speak persuasively about complex topics.
• Knowledge of local regulatory practices and procedures, including current legislation and case law.
• Experience in community planning, climate action and adaptation planning, and natural resources science.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in environmental science or a related interdisciplinary field.

Skills

• Project and client management principles and practices.
• Technical document development and creative solutions creation.
• Client interaction and relationship building.
• Effective communication and presentation skills.
• Leadership and mentorship abilities.

Benefits

At ESA, employees receive benefits such as medical, dental, and vision insurance, annual ESOP share allocations, a 401(k) plan with company match, and paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays. Additional programs include tuition reimbursement, professional development bonuses, and conference attendance.

Pay

$170,000 - $210,000 USD

Schedule

Full-time position