Principal Consultant, Planner

Why This Role Matters

Transportation planning sits at the core of every successful infrastructure project. In this role, you’ll provide strategic direction and technical leadership across a diverse portfolio—from electric transmission and renewable energy (wind, solar, hydropower, battery storage) to large-scale extractive projects. Your expertise will ensure projects are compliant, efficient, and aligned with both U.S. regulatory standards and global sustainability benchmarks—directly advancing ERM’s mission to deliver innovative, responsible solutions.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead multimodal transportation impact assessments (road, rail, vessel, air) for both construction and operational phases of major projects.
• Develop and apply methodologies aligned with NEPA, FHWA/FTA guidance, state/local regulations, and international standards.
• Contribute to proposal development by defining scope, methodology, and level of effort for transportation components.
• Build and strengthen client relationships while leading pursuits for new transportation planning opportunities.
• Mentor junior team members and foster an inclusive, collaborative, and high-performing team culture.
• Occasional travel for client meetings and field reviews across project locations.

Required

• Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, Transportation Engineering, Urban/Transportation Planning, or related field or equivalent experience.
• 6+ years (10+ years preferred) of progressive experience in transportation planning/engineering for major capital projects.
• Strong expertise in U.S. transportation standards and frameworks (NEPA, FHWA/FTA guidance, HCM, MUTCD) and state/local requirements.
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to translate complex technical concepts into clear insights for clients and stakeholders.
• Authorization to work in the U.S.

PREFERRED

• Master’s degree in Transportation Engineering/Planning or related field.
• Professional licensure or certification (PE, PTOE, AICP, RSP, or equivalent).
• Proficiency in transportation and traffic modeling tools (Synchro/SimTraffic, HCS, VISSIM/SIDRA, GIS, travel demand modeling).
• Experience supporting international projects and working within IFI-funded frameworks.
• Demonstrated success in business development and industry thought leadership.