Principal Consultant, Scientist

About the role

ERM is seeking a seasoned Principal Consultant, Environmental Permitting and Impact Assessor to shape the future of energy infrastructure—traditional and renewable—across the Gulf region. This role is pivotal in helping clients navigate complex regulatory landscapes, accelerate project timelines, and ensure environmental integrity across capital developments. You’ll be a key player in ERM’s mission to build a more sustainable future, while advancing your own career toward Partner or Technical Director pathways.

What your impact is

• Strategic Leadership: Guide clients through siting, permitting, and environmental impact assessments for major energy projects.
• Client Growth: Expand ERM’s footprint by leveraging your industry relationships and commercial acumen.
• Project Excellence: Deliver high-quality, compliant, and timely outcomes across diverse energy portfolios—from pipelines to offshore wind.
• Team Development: Mentor and lead multidisciplinary teams, fostering a culture of collaboration and innovation.

Required

• Bachelor’s or Master’s in Environmental Science, Engineering, or related field. Or equivalent experience
• 6+ years of consulting or energy sector experience (10+ preferred)
• Proven success in project management and client relationship development
• Expertise in local, state, and federal permitting (e.g., USACE, FERC, BOEM, USFWS)
• Strong communication skills—technical and commercial
• Business acumen and a track record of delivering annual sales
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and lead teams effectively

Preferred

• NEPA and ESHIA experience
• Established reputation and network in the Gulf Coast energy market
• Experience with low-carbon and renewable energy projects
• Line management or mentorship experience
• Desire to grow into Partner or Technical Director roles

Responsibilities

• Lead permitting and impact assessment for capital energy projects (traditional and renewable)
• Lead multi-media permitting for capital projects, ensuring compliance with local, state, and federal regulations—including oversight from agencies like the USACE, USFWS, FERC, and BOEM.
• Serve as Project Manager on complex, multi-disciplinary initiatives
• Build and maintain trusted client relationships
• Collaborate with ERM’s leadership and account teams to drive commercial growth
• Contribute to go-to-market strategies and business development efforts
• Deliver high-quality technical work and ensure regulatory compliance
• Support team development and contribute to ERM’s inclusive, high-performance culture