Senior Sustainability Analyst

About the role

The Los Angeles office of SmithGroup is seeking a Senior Sustainability Analyst to lead a high-performing team of sustainability and climate professionals.

Responsibilities

• Lead a high-performing team of sustainability and climate professionals within the IMPACT group, including specialists in performance modeling, certification, climate adaptation, and decarbonization planning.
• Oversee technical excellence across projects, ensuring quality control of sustainability narratives, certification documentation, performance models, and climate risk assessments.
• Guide strategic planning and design integration for complex projects, establishing a cohesive sustainability vision across disciplines and markets.
• Supervise the development of technical specifications, design narratives, and client-facing materials, ensuring alignment with project goals and certification requirements.
• Facilitate project charrettes and workshops, leading goal-setting and decision-making sessions with clients and project teams.
• Manage IMPACT team staffing, scope, and fee negotiations in coordination with project managers, ensuring timely and high-quality deliverables.
• Mentor and coach junior and intermediate staff, conducting performance reviews and supporting professional development plans.
• Develop tools, processes, and standards to improve modeling efficiency and sustainability service delivery across the firm.
• Represent IMPACT in client meetings, technical conferences, and industry events, strengthening relationships and expanding business opportunities.
• Lead proposal development and strategic business development efforts, coordinating with marketing and sector leaders to position IMPACT services.
• Serve as a thought leader in sustainability, contributing to national organizations (e.g., USGBC, ILFI, IWBI) and driving innovation in wellness, equity, and resilience.
• Oversee internal education programs and staff training to elevate sustainability knowledge across project teams.
• Travel as needed to client sites and conferences to support project delivery and professional engagement.

Requirements

• A Bachelor of Science degree in Engineering, Environmental Sciences, Economics, Architecture, or a related technical field; Master’s degree or equivalent preferred.
• Professional licensure and relevant sustainability credentials such as LEED AP, WELL AP, LFA, or Fitwel Ambassador.
• A minimum of 10+ years of experience in sustainability, specific to design and construction of the built environment, ideally LEED, WELL, LBC and other sustainability targets on projects, with at least 2 years of direct supervisory experience.
• Experinence in climate adaptation, performance modeling, or related topics is a plus.
• Proven expertise in integrating holistic green building strategies across diverse markets and project scales.
• Demonstrated success managing multiple sustainability certifications and ESG documentation simultaneously.
• Strong leadership and mentoring skills, with the ability to develop high-performing teams.
• Experience in strategic planning, project management, and client engagement, with a track record of delivering high-quality, impactful work.
• Excellent presentation and facilitation skills, with the ability to lead charrettes, workshops, and client meetings.
• Active involvement in industry organizations and thought-leadership initiatives, preferably in a national leadership role.
• A collaborative mindset and the ability to influence across disciplines to achieve ambitious sustainability goals.

Qualifications

• Passionate about sustainability and design, with a proven track record of delivering impactful projects.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, dynamic environment, with strong organizational and communication skills.
• Experience in leading sustainability initiatives and collaborating with interdisciplinary teams.
• Knowledge of sustainability frameworks and methodologies, such as LEED, WELL, LBC, and others.
• Experience in project management, including budgeting, scheduling, and resource allocation.
• Understanding of regulatory requirements and compliance with environmental regulations.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Ability to communicate complex sustainability concepts to non-specialist audiences.

Skills

• Proficiency in sustainability software and tools, such as LEED Green Associate, WELL Building Standard, and other relevant certifications.
• Experience with performance modeling, climate adaptation, and decarbonization planning.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to build and maintain relationships with clients, stakeholders, and team members.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines, with a focus on quality and client satisfaction.
• Experience in developing and implementing sustainability strategies and policies.
• Knowledge of sustainable design principles and practices, including energy efficiency, water conservation, waste reduction, and indoor air quality.

Benefits

At SmithGroup, we offer:

• Flexible scheduling
• A hybrid work environment
• 3 weeks of PTO within your first year of employment with the option of purchasing additional time off
• 8 paid federal holidays
• Plus 15 extra Fridays off!
• Medical, dental, and vision coverage
• Wellbeing resources
• Paid parental leave
• A flex spending account and voluntary insurance options
• 401(k) program with employer matching
• Tuition reimbursement program
• One-on-one career coaching and professional development opportunities

Pay

The anticipated salary range for this position is $115,000 to $135,000 annually.

Schedule

Flexible scheduling is offered.

Equal Opportunity Employer

We are an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, pregnancy, genetic information, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other protected category under applicable federal, state, and local laws.