Principal Consultant, Environmental Permitting and Impact Assessor at ERM in Houston, TX

Job description

Lead the Future of Energy Development Are you a strategic leader who thrives at the intersection of environmental stewardship, energy infrastructure, and business growth? ERM is seeking a Principal Consultant, Environmental Permitting and Impact Assessor based in the Gulf Coast Region to help shape the next generation of traditional, renewable, and low-carbon energy projects. In this highly visible leadership role, you will guide clients through complex environmental permitting and impact assessment challenges, influence major capital investment decisions, and help deliver projects that support a more sustainable future. If you are passionate about solving complex regulatory challenges, building lasting client relationships, and driving meaningful growth, this is an opportunity to make a lasting impact while advancing your career within a global sustainability leader. Why This Role Matters The energy sector is evolving rapidly, creating unprecedented opportunities and challenges for project developers, investors, and regulators. ERM works alongside leading energy organizations to navigate this transformation, helping clients advance critical infrastructure projects while meeting environmental and regulatory requirements. As a Principal Consultant, you will play a key role in helping clients successfully site, permit, and deliver capital projects across the Gulf region. Your expertise will directly influence project success, regulatory outcomes, and sustainable development initiatives. At the same time, you will help expand ERM’s market presence, strengthen client relationships, and contribute to the continued growth of our Energy business. This role also offers a clear pathway for professional advancement toward senior leadership opportunities, including Partner and Technical Director career tracks. What Your Impact Is Strategic Leadership Guide clients through siting, permitting, and environmental impact assessment processes for complex energy infrastructure projects. Provide trusted technical and strategic advice on regulatory and environmental compliance requirements. Support the successful development of traditional, renewable, and low-carbon energy projects. Client Growth and Relationship Building Leverage industry knowledge, business acumen, and market relationships to expand ERM’s presence within the Gulf Coast energy sector. Develop and maintain strong client partnerships built on technical excellence and trusted advisory support. Contribute to business development initiatives and annual sales objectives. Project Excellence Deliver high-quality, compliant, and timely permitting and environmental assessment solutions across diverse energy portfolios, including pipelines, offshore wind, and other capital projects. Lead multidisciplinary project teams to achieve successful client outcomes while maintaining ERM’s standards of excellence. Team Leadership and Mentorship Foster collaboration, innovation, and professional growth within project teams. Mentor and support emerging professionals while contributing to ERM’s inclusive and high-performance culture. Help develop future leaders within the organization. What You'll Bring Required Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Environmental Science, Engineering, or a related field, or equivalent experience. 6+ years of consulting or energy sector experience (10+ years preferred). Proven success in project management and client relationship development. Expertise in local, state, and federal permitting programs and regulatory frameworks, including agencies such as USACE, FERC, BOEM, and USFWS. Strong communication skills with the ability to convey technical and commercial concepts effectively. Demonstrated business acumen and a track record of delivering annual sales. Ability to manage multiple priorities while effectively leading teams. Driver's License Required: This position requires a valid driver's license and/or the ability to operate a company vehicle due to the nature of job du