Principal Consultant, Impact Assessment/Permitting (Principal Level)

ERM; Vancouver; Remote; CAD 114,000 - 140,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading global provider of environmental consulting services is seeking a Principal Consultant in Impact Assessment/Permitting. This role involves leading projects, ensuring compliance, and collaborating with teams across Canada. The ideal candidate has extensive experience in environmental consulting and a strong understanding of regulatory requirements in Canada. Join a diverse team committed to sustainability and client success.

Benefits

Paid leave

Health insurance

Retirement plans

Qualifications

• 6+ years in environmental consulting or impact assessment.
• Deep knowledge of Canadian environmental legislation.

Responsibilities

• Lead technical and regulatory aspects of environmental assessment projects.
• Manage multiple projects and ensure timely, quality deliverables.
• Conduct environmental assessment scoping and develop permit applications.

Skills

Communication

Organization

Leadership

Education

Bachelor’s or higher in environmental sciences

Job description

Principal Consultant, Impact Assessment/Permitting (Principal Level)

Join to apply for the Principal Consultant, Impact Assessment/Permitting (Principal Level) role at ERM.

ERM (Environmental Resources Management) is a leading global provider of environmental, health, safety, risk, and social consulting services. We are seeking a Principal Consultant, Impact Assessment/Permitting to support our Canadian Regulatory and Permitting Team. This role can be based in Vancouver, Smithers, Whitehorse, Calgary, Saskatoon, Toronto, or remotely within Canada.

The ideal candidate will have expertise in infrastructure or natural resource sectors—renewable energy, transportation, oil and gas, or mining—and a solid understanding of provincial, territorial, and federal regulatory and permitting requirements, especially in British Columbia, Alberta, and Ontario. You will lead in impact assessment and permitting processes, collaborate with ERM’s regional teams, and support project delivery and business development.

Responsibilities

• Lead technical and regulatory aspects of environmental assessment and permitting projects, ensuring compliance and quality standards.
• Provide guidance and review on regulatory tasks, and engage with regulators, Indigenous groups, and stakeholders.
• Support project teams with technical input on regulatory requirements and develop sector-specific expertise.
• Manage multiple projects, mitigate risks, and ensure timely, quality deliverables.
• Conduct environmental assessment scoping, data review, technical writing, and develop permit applications and management plans.
• Build relationships within ERM and lead proposal development, including technical scopes and cost estimates.
• Participate in training and promote health and safety standards.
• Contribute to strategic thinking and positive client outcomes.

Qualifications & Skills

• Bachelor’s or higher in environmental sciences, engineering, management, or related field, or equivalent experience.
• 6+ years (preferably 10+) in environmental consulting or impact assessment within relevant sectors.
• Deep knowledge of Canadian environmental legislation and permitting, especially in BC, Alberta, Ontario, Yukon, NWT, Nunavut.
• Experience managing complex projects across sectors like oil & gas, mining, renewables, etc.
• Strong communication, organization, and leadership skills.
• Proven ability to lead teams, provide strategic guidance, and support regulatory processes.
• Commitment to safety, diversity, and continuous learning.
• Experience working with Indigenous communities and stakeholder engagement is an asset.

Compensation & Benefits

Annual salary range: $114,581 – $140,000 CAD, based on qualifications and experience. Benefits include paid leave, health insurance, retirement plans, and other perks. Bonus eligibility varies.

Application Process

Apply via ERM Careers or internal portal. Please submit your resume and cover letter.

About ERM

As a global leader in sustainability consulting, ERM partners with organizations to develop innovative solutions for environmental and social challenges. We value diversity and strive to create an inclusive workplace.