Principal Consultant, Senior Environmental Project Manager (Planning & Permitting) at ERM in Houston, TX

Job description

Lead the Future of Energy Development Across the Gulf Region Are you a strategic environmental leader ready to influence the next generation of energy infrastructure projects? ERM is seeking a Principal Consultant, Senior Environmental Project Manager (Permitting and Impact Assessor) to join our team in Houston, TX, Austin, Tx, and Dallas, Tx . In this highly visible leadership role, you will help clients navigate complex environmental and regulatory challenges while advancing critical traditional, renewable, and low-carbon energy projects. This is an opportunity to combine technical expertise, client leadership, and commercial growth in a role that directly shapes sustainable development outcomes and supports the future of the energy sector. Why This Role Matters As the energy sector continues to evolve, organizations are facing increasingly complex permitting, regulatory, and environmental requirements. ERM partners with leading energy clients to deliver innovative, sustainable solutions that help move critical projects forward responsibly and efficiently. As a Principal Consultant, you will play a key role in guiding major energy developments from concept to execution, helping clients navigate regulatory landscapes, reduce project risk, and achieve successful environmental outcomes. Your expertise will directly contribute to the delivery of transformative infrastructure projects while supporting ERM's continued growth and leadership in the energy market. This role also offers a clear pathway toward future leadership opportunities, including Partner and Technical Director career tracks. What Your Impact Is Strategic Leadership: Guide clients through siting, permitting, and environmental impact assessments for major energy projects. Client Growth: Expand ERM's footprint by leveraging your industry relationships and commercial acumen. Project Excellence: Deliver high-quality, compliant, and timely outcomes across diverse energy portfolios, from pipelines to offshore wind developments. Team Development: Lead and mentor multidisciplinary teams while fostering collaboration, innovation, and technical excellence. Sustainable Outcomes: Support the responsible development of traditional, renewable, and low-carbon energy infrastructure projects that create long-term value for clients and communities. What You'll Bring Required Bachelor's or Master's degree in Environmental Science, Engineering, or 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 (e.g., USACE, FERC, USFWS). Strong communication skills with the ability to communicate effectively in both technical and commercial settings. Ability to manage multiple priorities while leading teams and project delivery efforts effectively. 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 duties, which include frequent travel to various client locations across a large geographical area. Preferred NEPA and ESHIA experience. Established reputation and professional network within the Gulf Coast energy market. Experience supporting low-carbon and renewable energy projects. Previous line management and/or mentorship experience. Interest in pursuing future Partner or Technical Director career opportunities. Key Responsibilities Serve as Project Manager on complex, multidisciplinary projects and programs. Lead permitting and environmental impact assessment efforts for capital energy projects across traditional and renewable energy sectors. Lead multi-media permitting for capital projects, ensuring compliance with local, state, and federal regulations, including oversight from agencies such as the USACE, USFWS, and FERC. Build, strengthen, and maintain trusted client relationships through technical excellence and s