Environmental Planner: NEPA, Permitting & Impact Analysis

About the opportunity SWCA Environmental Consultants is seeking an experienced, dynamic, self‑motivated Staff‑Level Environmental Planner to manage projects from early planning through construction, with strong interpersonal skills and expertise in natural resources evaluation and impact assessment. The role requires a deep understanding of environmental permitting in the Gulf Coast (Texas, Louisiana) across oil/gas, transportation, renewables, and land development sectors, strong communication, and a proven track record in land use planning and permitting activities such as critical issues analyses, ESA consultation, CWA permitting (Sections 404/401), NHPA compliance and related regulatory requirements. This is a full‑time, hourly, regular position based in the Houston, Texas office with potential hybrid work flexibility. Pay is based on qualifications and experience, and the position includes competitive salaries and benefits, including an ESOP, health, dental, vision, life and disability plans, and a 401(k) plan. Assistant Staff Environmental Planner – minimum 1 year of relevant industry experience. Staff Environmental Planner – minimum 2 years of relevant industry experience. Application deadline: Open until qualified candidates are identified. Interviews are scheduled on a rolling basis. What you will accomplish The selected candidate will contribute to environmental impact analyses, support the development of EAs and EISs, and facilitate public and agency outreach. Assist project managers or technical leads with the development of EAs and EISs for oil & gas, land use, generation, transmission, and other business lines. Prepare key aspects of NEPA documents, including Pre‑NOI activities, project descriptions, purpose, need analysis, public scoping, comment review and response, and Records of Decision. Apply NEPA and other regulations to a variety of environmental planning projects. Resolve issues proactively to meet client needs. Collaborate with SWCA’s resource scientists and planners across natural and cultural resources to promote business interests. Draft technical reports and permit applications under CWA, ESA, NEPA, NHPA, and related resource planning dealings. Assist in deliverables, budgeting, scheduling, and tracking. Implement SWCA safety procedures and professional ethics standards. Experience and qualifications for success Minimum Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in biology, environmental science, natural resource management, geology, or related field, or equivalent experience. Working knowledge of federal and state environmental regulations (NEPA, CWA, ESA, NHPA). Experience with federal and state agencies such as USACE, FEMA, DOE, FERC, NRCS, USFWS. At least 1 year of environmental planning or consulting experience, with NEPA document preparation. Excellent verbal and written communication, interpersonal skills, attention to detail, and ability to work on schedule. Preferred or Helpful Qualifications 3+ years of experience in environmental, ecological, or natural resources studies, surveys, or projects. Experience as an environmental consultant. Experience working with renewable energy, oil & gas, transportation, public utilities, or mining clients. Experience managing multiple complex projects with changing requirements. Experience leading staff and supervising tasks. Strong interest in supporting business development efforts. Willingness to work with peers across offices and with clients. Critical Skills and Attributes Strong verbal and written communication, interpersonal skills, and organization. Exposure to natural & cultural resource issues in oil/gas, transportation, and renewables projects. Equal Opportunity Employer SWCA is an equal‑opportunity employer. Women, minorities, individuals with disabilities, and veterans are encouraged to apply. #J-18808-Ljbffr SWCA Environmental Consultants