Principal Environmental Planner / NEPA Lead

What You Will Do

• Lead environmental planning and compliance work and support the development of environmental documents and studies in compliance with NEPA, and other state and federal environmental regulations.
• Be an effective client liaison on NEPA projects.
• Prepare effective technical and cost proposals and take an active role in the development of new business through internal cross-selling and through developing and expanding client relationships that generate new business.
• Perform project management role on NEPA/environmental planning projects by monitoring budget, scope and schedule and being accountable for project performance.
• Collaborate with project teams to develop technical work programs designed to provide innovative and progressive project solutions.
• Provide leadership in mentoring personnel, including reviewing their work for accuracy and clarity and providing constructive feedback on project tasks.
• Carry out supervisory responsibilities, including planning, assigning, and directing work; evaluating and coaching team member performance.
• Oversee and manage subcontractor coordination on projects and ensure adherence to quality protocols, and client satisfaction.

What You’ll Be Challenged To Do

• Manage complex contracts and task orders for large environmental planning programs.
• Contribute to business development, and assist with executing growth strategy for NEPA related services.
• Engage with our expanding pool of public and private sector clients.

Education | Experience

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Environmental Science, Engineering, Planning, Biology, Physical Sciences, or related field.
• 20 years of progressive, relevant experience or demonstrated equivalency of experience and/or education in environmental planning, including linear infrastructure, facility siting, permitting, community engagement, and impact assessment (analytical/technical writing) for NEPA or similar requirements.
• Demonstrated ability to apply sound business acumen and strategies to prepare technical proposals and fee estimates on large, complex projects and programs that respond to our clients’ needs.
• Demonstrated leadership, negotiation, and conflict resolution skills.
• Experience with preparing and executing business development strategies and helping to grow revenues and client portfolios.
• Experience managing complex environmental compliance projects or programs, requiring coordination of interdisciplinary teams, management of budget(s), and meeting schedule(s).
• Successfully interface with clients and other teaming partners (e.g., JV partners).
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills as well as interpersonal skills to effectively manage projects and interact with teams of staff, subconsultants, and clients.
• Experience in marketing and business development efforts in pursuit of new business.
• Must be self-motivated, detail-oriented, and able to collaborate within a team environment.
• Professional certification (AICP, PMP, or similar) is preferred but not required.
• Proficient with MS Office Suite.
• Valid US Driver’s License.

Compensation

The salary range for this role is $140,000 - $190,000; Salary is dependent upon experience and geographic location.

Featured Benefits

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

Company Overview

At GFT, a privately held AEC firm, we innovate where transportation, water, power and buildings converge. We call this the Infrastructure of Life. We measure our success by the strength of our relationships – that’s why we’re the employer of choice for 5,000+ of the industry’s brightest engineers, planners, architects, inspectors, designers, and more. Our clients choose us for our expertise and prefer us for our nimble approach, creativity, and personal touch. Backed by over a century’s experience, together we’re building a lasting legacy for future generations: stronger communities, a healthier planet, and better lives.

GFT is an Equal Opportunity Employer

All qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veterans’ status or other characteristics protected by law. Unsolicited resumes from third party agencies will be considered the property of GFT. Location: Various Working Hours: 8 AM – 5 PM Employment Status: Full-time #HYBRID "California Applicants" Applicants in the County of Los Angeles - Qualified applications with arrest or conviction records will be considered for employment in accordance with the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers and the California Fair Chance Act. Applicants in the State of California - Qualified applications with arrest or conviction records will be considered for employment in accordance with the California Fair Chance Act. Gannett Fleming does require the successful completion of a criminal background check for all advertised positions. Application deadline 8/1/2026