Principal Environmental Planner - Project Manager

About the role

GFT is seeking an experienced Principal Environmental Planner/Project Manager to join our growing Environmental team. This is a hybrid position reporting to the Chicago, IL office.

Responsibilities

• Engage with public and private sector clients, manage contracts and task orders for large environmental planning programs, and coordinate with team to complete environmental compliance processes and documentation.
• Lead environmental planning and regulatory compliance work and support the development of environmental documents and studies in compliance with NEPA and other state and federal environmental regulations.
• Perform project management duties on NEPA/environmental planning projects by monitoring budget, scope and schedule and being accountable for project performance.
• Establish and execute a NEPA/environmental planning focused business development/growth strategy for both new and existing clients in the Chicago and U.S. Central region transportation market.
• Function as a mentor to staff and manage client relationships.
• Lead environmental compliance projects or programs, requiring coordination of interdisciplinary teams, management of budgets, and meeting schedules.
• 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.
• 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.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in planning, Environmental Science, Engineering, Biology, Physical Sciences or related field.
• 15+ years of progressive, relevant experience or demonstrated equivalency of experience and/or education in environmental planning, including linear infrastructure, facility siting, permitting, and community engagement, and impact assessment (analytical/technical writing) for NEPA and related regulatory requirements.
• American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP), Certified Environmental Professional or equivalent certification.
• Experience managing environmental compliance projects or programs, requiring coordination of interdisciplinary teams, management of budgets, and meeting schedules.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills as well as interpersonal skills to effectively manage projects and interact with teams of staff, subconsultants and clients.

Qualifications

• Obtain IDOT Pre-Qualifications for Environmental Lead for EA, EIS, and additional certifications.
• Detail-oriented.
• Ability to collaborate within a team environment.
• Leadership, negotiation and conflict resolution skills.

Skills

• Technical responsibilities of this position would include providing guidance and management of NEPA and permitting efforts, providing planning assistance to design teams for project development, and interacting with agencies and the public.

Benefits

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.

Pay

The salary range for this role is $125,000 - $145,000. Salary is dependent upon experience and geographic location.

Schedule

Core Business Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Location

Chicago, IL