Principal Environmental Planner / NEPA Lead

About the Role

GFT is seeking an experienced Principal Environmental Planner/NEPA Lead for a hybrid position located in Texas, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, New York, New Jersey, or South Florida. The Environmental team delivers integrated planning, permitting, and compliance solutions for infrastructure development across North America, guiding clients through Environmental Assessments, permitting processes, ecological and regulatory assessments, and remediation efforts on transportation, power, water, and facilities projects.

Responsibilities

• Lead environmental planning and compliance work, developing NEPA and other environmental documents and studies.
• Serve as project manager, deputy project manager, task manager, or environmental lead depending on assignment.
• Provide oversight, guidance, and management of NEPA and permitting efforts, coordinating with engineering design teams during pursuit and project phases.
• Interact with agencies and the public, acting as an effective client liaison on NEPA projects.
• Prepare technical and cost proposals; contribute to business development through cross‑selling and expanding client relationships.
• Monitor budget, scope, and schedule; be accountable for project performance.
• Collaborate with project teams to develop innovative technical work programs.
• Mentor personnel, review work for accuracy and clarity, and provide constructive feedback.
• Supervise staff by planning, assigning, directing work, and evaluating performance.
• Oversee subcontractor coordination, ensuring quality protocols and client satisfaction.
• Contribute to market positioning, client engagement, and capture strategy for NEPA‑related services.
• Assist with business development strategies and growth of revenues and client portfolios.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Environmental Science, Engineering, Planning, Biology, Physical Sciences, or a related field.
• Approximately 20 years of progressive experience (or equivalent education/experience) in environmental planning for linear infrastructure, facility siting, permitting, community engagement, and NEPA or similar impact assessments.
• Proven ability to prepare technical proposals and fee estimates for large, complex projects.
• Strong leadership, negotiation, and conflict‑resolution skills.
• Experience developing and executing business‑development strategies and growing client portfolios.
• Track record managing complex environmental compliance projects, coordinating interdisciplinary teams, budgets, and schedules.
• Excellent verbal and written communication and interpersonal skills.
• Experience in marketing and business development.
• Self‑motivated, detail‑oriented, and collaborative.
• Professional certification (e.g., AICP, PMP) preferred but not required.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite.
• Valid U.S. driver’s license.

Pay

Salary range: $140,000 – $190,000, dependent on experience and geographic location.

Benefits

• Hybrid (in‑person and remote) work environment.
• Comprehensive benefits package: medical, dental, vision, disability, life insurance, wellness programs, parental leave, and pet insurance.
• Tax‑deferred 401(k) savings plan.
• Competitive paid‑time‑off (PTO) accrual.
• Tuition reimbursement for continued education.
• Professional development support, including internal and external training and participation in professional organizations.
• Incentive compensation for eligible positions.

Schedule

• Location: Various (Texas, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, New York, New Jersey, South Florida).
• Working hours: 8 AM – 5 PM.
• Employment status: Full‑time.
• Hybrid work model (in‑person and remote).