Principal Technical Consultant, Engineering

ERM; Washington (District of Columbia); On-site; USD 106,879 - 162,510; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive benefits package

Paid time off

401(k) or RRSP/DPSP

Job summary

ERM is seeking a Principal Consultant, Scientist in Washington, D.C. This role involves leading permitting and compliance for electric transmission and renewable energy projects. The ideal candidate will bring over 8 years of power sector experience, ensuring regulatory standards are met while collaborating with global teams.

Applicants should possess a relevant degree and strong technical skills. The anticipated annual base pay is between $106,879 and $162,510, with a comprehensive benefits package offered.

Qualifications

• 8+ years in consulting or industry focused on power sector projects.
• Permitting experience for transmission line projects in Virginia required.
• Knowledge of Clean Water Act and Endangered Species Act.

Responsibilities

• Manage permitting tasks for capital development projects.
• Prepare and submit permit applications to authorities.
• Drive business development leveraging client relationships.

Skills

Technical writing

Project management

Regulatory compliance

Client relationship management

Education

Bachelor’s or Master’s in Environmental Science or related field

Tools

Permitting software

Job description

Lead the Future of Energy Infrastructure

Ready to take charge of transformative power sector projects? As ERM’s Principal Consultant, Scientist in the Mid‑Atlantic region, you’ll shape the future of energy infrastructure while advancing your career with a global sustainability leader.

Why This Role Matters

As energy systems evolve, the demand for expert guidance on permitting and compliance is critical. ERM is at the forefront of enabling sustainable growth in the power sector. Your leadership will ensure projects meet regulatory standards, protect natural resources, and deliver on time—helping clients achieve their goals while driving environmental stewardship.

What Your Impact Is

• Lead permitting and compliance for high‑profile electric transmission, distribution, and renewable energy projects.
• Influence strategic decisions by managing complex regulatory frameworks and environmental challenges.
• Build trusted client relationships and expand ERM’s footprint in the Mid‑Atlantic region.
• Collaborate globally to share best practices and deliver innovative solutions.

What You'll Bring

• Bachelor’s or Master’s in Environmental Science, Natural Resources, or related field. Or equivalent experience.
• 8+ years in consulting or industry, focused on power sector projects under federal and state regulatory frameworks (VA/Mid‑Atlantic preferred).
• Permitting experience for transmission line projects in Virginia (required); West Virginia and Kentucky (preferred).
• Knowledge of Clean Water Act (Sections 401/404), Endangered Species Act (Section 7), National Historic Preservation Act (Section 106).
• Familiarity with USACE Norfolk District, VDEQ, VMRC permitting requirements.
• Strong technical writing, project management, and communication abilities. Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.

Preferred

• Experience reviewing Erosion & Sediment Control Plans, Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plans, and Virginia Pollutant Discharge Elimination System permits.
• Proven ability to lead multidisciplinary teams and influence stakeholders.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage permitting tasks for capital development projects, including electric transmission lines and renewable energy initiatives.
• Prepare and submit permit applications to federal, state, and local authorities.
• Develop project schedules, budgets, and progress reports.
• Participate in agency consultations, client meetings, and site visits (travel up to 20%).
• Collaborate with ERM experts on impact assessments, routing studies, and facility siting.
• Drive business development by leveraging client relationships and delivering exceptional technical solutions.

Join a global leader in sustainability consulting with a collaborative culture, cutting‑edge projects, and opportunities for career growth. At ERM, your work matters—because together, we shape a cleaner, more resilient future.

For the Principal Consultant, Scientist position, the anticipated annual base pay is $106,879 – $162,510 (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.

Note: Bonuses, commissions, and other forms of additional compensation are not guaranteed and subject to the sole discretion of ERM and its policies and procedures.

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.