California Power & Regulatory Strategy Director

ERM; Walnut Creek (CA); On-site; USD 145,000 - 184,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Paid time off

Parental leave

Medical

Dental

Vision

Life insurance

Disability insurance

401(k) or RRSP/DPSP

Job summary

ERM in California is seeking a Consulting Director, Power, Energy & Regulatory Advisory to lead environmental permitting, regulatory strategy and stakeholder engagement for major capital projects in the power, transmission and data center sectors.

You will mentor teams, drive client engagements, and shape growth with California utilities, CEQA/NEPA expertise, and strong leadership. The role offers a path to Partners for exceptional performers.

Qualifications

• 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 and ability to leverage existing contract agreements.
• Experience with CPUC General Order 131-E and CEQA best practices.
• Leadership and mentoring skills.

Responsibilities

• Serve as 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.

Skills

Leadership

Regulatory strategy

Stakeholder engagement

CEQA/NEPA knowledge

Permitting

Education

Bachelor’s degree in biology or environmental science

Master’s degree preferred

Job description

ERM in California is seeking a Consulting Director, Power, Energy & Regulatory Advisory to lead environmental permitting, regulatory strategy and stakeholder engagement for major capital projects in the power, transmission and data center sectors.

You will mentor teams, drive client engagements, and shape growth with California utilities, CEQA/NEPA expertise, and strong leadership. The role offers a path to Partners for exceptional performers.