Managing Consultant, Scientist

About the role

Lead the future of renewable energy permitting with ERM. As a Managing Consultant, Scientist, based in Cincinnati, OH, you’ll play a strategic role in guiding permitting processes for solar, wind, transmission, and other large-scale developments, ensuring compliance while influencing the future of clean energy infrastructure.

Responsibilities

• Manage and provide technical expertise on wetland and Waters of the U.S. delineations, habitat assessments, and species-specific surveys.
• Lead preparation of local, state, and federal permitting documents and ensure quality standards.
• Oversee multiple projects within scope, budget, and schedule expectations.
• Prepare technical proposals, scopes, and cost estimates; support business development efforts.
• Collaborate with ERM practitioners on Impact Assessment and Permitting (IAP) projects.
• Supervise and mentor junior and mid-level staff to build technical and leadership capabilities.
• Maintain awareness of regional projects and staffing needs; assist in recruiting efforts.
• Build strong collaborative relationships across ERM’s regional and national teams.

Requirements

• BS/MS in biology, ecology, or environmental sciences, or equivalent experience.
• 4–6 years of due diligence and permitting experience (7–10 years preferred).
• Proven expertise in wetland delineations, habitat assessments, and species-specific surveys.
• Strong knowledge of biological impact assessment and permitting practices.
• Experience with federal, state, and local permitting in GA, NC, SC, and VA.
• Excellent communication, writing, and client relationship skills.

Preferred

• Solar project experience.
• Federally permitted bat biologist credentials.
• Established reputation and technical expertise in the local marketplace.
• Ability to influence and lead teams effectively.

Benefits

Comprehensive benefits package including paid time off, parental leave, medical, dental, vision, life, disability, AD&D insurance, 401(k) or RRSP/DPSP, and other applicable benefits. Bonus pay may be available based on factors such as education, experience, skills, location, performance, and business needs.