Consulting Director, Power, Energy & Regulatory Advisory (Walnut Creek)

Consulting Director, Regulatory Analyst (Utilities/Power/Renewables)

Are you ready to lead transformative environmental projects that power communities and drive sustainable innovation? ERM is seeking a visionary Consulting Director, Power, Energy & Regulatory Advisory to join our high-growth Capital Project Delivery team. This is more than a job—it's a leadership opportunity to influence the future of renewable energy and infrastructure development across California. As part of ERM’s continued expansion, you’ll work alongside industry‑leading experts, drive strategic client engagements, and deliver impactful solutions for some of the most complex and high‑profile projects in the region.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead environmental permitting and CEQA/NEPA efforts for major capital projects, including renewable energy, transmission, and data centers.
• Shape regulatory strategies and negotiate with key agencies such as the California Coastal Commission, USFWS, and CPUC.
• Drive business growth through strategic client relationships, leveraging existing contracts with California public utilities.
• Mentor and develop high‑performing teams, fostering a culture of excellence and innovation.
• Contribute to ERM’s global leadership community, with potential eligibility for our Partner Path after your first year.
• 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 to stay ahead of market needs.
• Ensure excellence in health & safety, financial performance, client satisfaction, and risk management.

Qualifications

• Required:
  • 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 in leading CEQA/NEPA permitting and environmental impact assessments.
  • Established relationships with California utility companies with the ability to leverage existing contract agreements to unlock new project opportunities.
  • Experience with CPUC General Order 131‑E and CEQA best practices.
  • Business acumen and strategic selling capabilities.
  • Leadership skills with a passion for mentoring and team development.
• Preferred:
  • Master’s degree in biology, environmental science, or related field.
  • 15+ years of consulting experience.
  • Recognized technical expertise and positive reputation with key regulators.

Compensation and Benefits

For the Consulting Director, Planner Regulatory Specialist position, the anticipated annual base pay is $143,250–$183,509 (USD). Actual pay will depend on factors such as education, experience, skills, location, performance, and business needs. In some cases, pay may fall outside this range. This role may be eligible for bonus pay (casual and fixed term/flex force employees are not bonus eligible). We offer a comprehensive benefits package, including paid time off, parental leave, medical, dental, vision, life, disability, AD&D insurance, 401(k) or RRSP/DPSP, and other applicable benefits to eligible employees.

Equal Employment Opportunity

ERM is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. We do not discriminate based upon race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability, or other applicable legally protected characteristics.