Consulting Director – Power, Energy & Regulatory Advisory

ERM

Consulting Director leading CEQA/NEPA permitting and regulatory strategy for ERM, a global sustainability consultancy. Managing utility, renewable-energy, and infrastructure projects across California and Washington.

Posted 8/11/2026full-timeWalnut Creek • California, Washington • 🇺🇸 United StatesLead💰 $145,482 - $183,509 per yearWebsite

Core Competencies

Role fit

Core Competencies

Use this summary to align your resume positioning with the role.

Demonstrates expertise in CEQA/NEPA permitting and environmental impact assessments, with a strong focus on regulatory strategy development and compliance management for major capital projects. Proven ability to lead teams, mentor staff, and drive business growth through strategic client relationships in California's utility sector.

Highest-signal resume keywords

CEQA/NEPA PermittingEnvironmental Impact AssessmentsCalifornia Utility RelationshipsLeadership and Team DevelopmentStrategic Client Management

ATS Keywords

Tailor your resume

Applicant Tracking System Keywords

Tip: use these terms in your resume and cover letter to boost ATS matches.

Hard Skills

Environmental PermittingEIR PreparationMitigated Negative DeclarationsTechnical StudiesRegulatory Strategy DevelopmentCompliance ManagementBusiness AcumenStrategic SellingCEQA Best PracticesCPUC General Order 131-E

Soft Skills

MentoringTeam DevelopmentClient SatisfactionRisk Management

Industry Keywords

California Coastal CommissionUSFWSCPUCElectric TransmissionGas TransmissionRenewable EnergyData CentersLinear Infrastructure ProjectsImpact AssessmentPlanning Services

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Lead environmental permitting and CEQA/NEPA efforts for major capital projects, including renewable energy, transmission, and data centers
Shape regulatory strategies and negotiate with agencies such as the California Coastal Commission, USFWS, and CPUC
Drive business growth through strategic client relationships and existing California public-utility contracts
Mentor and develop high-performing teams
Serve as a senior technical expert for CEQA/NEPA assessments and natural-resource permitting
Oversee preparation of EIRs, Mitigated Negative Declarations, and technical studies
Lead permit-strategy development and application processes with state and federal agencies
Manage compliance for linear infrastructure projects, including telecom and energy
Collaborate with Account Directors to expand ERM’s footprint and deliver enterprise-wide solutions
Mentor staff consultants, identify emerging talent, and support career development
Innovate within ERM’s Impact Assessment and Planning services
Ensure excellence in health and safety, financial performance, client satisfaction, and risk management

Requirements

What you’ll need

Bachelor’s degree in biology, environmental science, or related field, or equivalent experience
8+ years of consulting experience in California’s electric/gas transmission and generation markets
Proven success leading CEQA/NEPA permitting and environmental impact assessments
Established relationships with California utility companies and ability to leverage existing contract agreements
Experience with CPUC General Order 131-E and CEQA best practices
Business acumen and strategic selling capabilities
Leadership skills and passion for mentoring and team development
Master’s degree in biology, environmental science, or related field preferred
15+ years of consulting experience preferred
Recognized technical expertise and positive reputation with key regulators preferred

Benefits

Comp & perks

Potential eligibility for ERM’s Partner Path after the first year
Bonus pay eligibility
Paid time off
Parental leave
Medical insurance
Dental insurance
Vision insurance
Life insurance
Disability insurance
AD&D insurance
401(k) or RRSP/DPSP
Other applicable benefits for eligible employees
Ongoing development opportunities across technical, business, and personal growth subject areas