Senior Environmental Planner & Project Manager - Energy

ICF Jones and Stokes; Sacramento (CA); Hybrid; USD 80,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a Senior Environmental Planner & Project Manager to lead environmental compliance for renewable energy projects in California. This role offers the opportunity to collaborate with engineers and construction teams while managing client relationships and developing strategies for environmental assessments. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in environmental permitting and project management within the energy sector. Join a team that values collaboration and excellence, and make a significant impact on sustainable energy initiatives across the state.

Qualifications

• 5+ years in energy and utility-focused environmental planning.
• Experience in environmental compliance and permitting processes.

Responsibilities

• Lead environmental compliance projects for renewable energy.
• Manage project deliverables and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams.
• Build client relationships and support business development activities.

Skills

Environmental Permitting

Project Management

Client Management

Technical Reporting

Analytical Skills

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Environmental Science

Master's Degree in Planning

Job description

Senior Environmental Planner & Project Manager - Energy

Locations: San Diego, CA; Sacramento, CA; or Remote in Southern or Northern CA

We are the Environment & Planning Division of ICF. Our team is passionate about doing what’s right for our clients, communities, and the environment. We are planners, scientists, program managers, communicators, economists, technologists, and strategists. We value collaboration, curiosity, and excellence, which inspire our growth.

ICF seeks an experienced Project Manager and Environmental Planner with consulting and/or utilities experience to support our expanding energy business in California. The ideal candidate will have experience with electrical or gas transmission, power generation, or energy projects, including client management and technical expertise in environmental permitting, state entitlement processes, construction compliance, and related regulations.

Job Description:

This role involves leading the development and implementation of environmental and regulatory compliance strategies for renewable energy and transmission projects. You will collaborate directly with clients, engineers, and construction teams to support environmental assessments, project design, permitting strategies, regulatory consultations, construction compliance, and post-construction restoration activities.

A strong knowledge of the environmental regulatory framework for utility and renewable energy projects in California, including CPUC regulations and environmental compliance processes, is preferred. The role requires experience in preparing permit applications, drafting technical reports, managing multiple projects and teams, and working effectively with clients. You will also contribute to business development and manage client relationships to grow renewable and transmission environmental services.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead environmental compliance projects for utility and renewable energy projects, managing project teams and deliverables.
• Conduct research, produce technical reports, and manage multiple project schedules.
• Build client relationships and support business development activities, including proposals and strategic planning.
• Manage project deliverables and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams.
• Communicate project timelines and data effectively across departments.
• Manage client relations professionally and identify new business opportunities.
• Participate in meetings and occasional travel to project sites and client offices.
• Lead and mentor internal teams to exceed client expectations in a fast-paced environment.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in environmental science, biology, planning, communications, or related field.
• Minimum of 5+ years in energy and/or utility-focused environmental planning, preferably in consulting or team environments.

Professional Skills:

• Experience obtaining environmental permits and reviewing technical studies related to biological, cultural resources, air quality, noise, traffic, and hydrology.
• Knowledge of California Public Utilities Commission regulations, including General Order 131-E.
• Project management experience in a consulting environment, with strong organizational and time management skills.
• Excellent communication skills, with experience interfacing with clients, agencies, and the public.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and strategic thinking abilities.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively to resolve challenges.