Director, Power & Regulatory Advisory (CA)

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

Benefits offered by this job

Paid time off

Parental leave

Medical, dental, vision insurance

Life/Disability insurance

401(k) or RRSP/DPSP

Job summary

ERM is seeking a Consulting Director, Power, Energy & Regulatory Advisory in California to lead environmental permitting for major capital projects, including renewables and transmission. You will shape regulatory strategies, engage with agencies like the CPUC and USFWS, and drive growth through existing contracts with utility clients.

You will mentor high-performing teams, contribute to ERM’s global leadership, and have eligibility for Partner Path after your first year.

Qualifications

• 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.

Responsibilities

• 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.

Skills

CEQA/NEPA permitting

Regulatory strategy

California utility relationships

CPUC GO 131-E experience

Leadership & strategic selling

Education

Bachelor’s degree in biology/environmental science/related

Master’s degree (preferred) in related field

Job description

ERM is seeking a Consulting Director, Power, Energy & Regulatory Advisory in California to lead environmental permitting for major capital projects, including renewables and transmission. You will shape regulatory strategies, engage with agencies like the CPUC and USFWS, and drive growth through existing contracts with utility clients.

You will mentor high-performing teams, contribute to ERM’s global leadership, and have eligibility for Partner Path after your first year.