Senior Permitting Leader, Energy Transmission & Renewables

Environmental Resources Management (ERM); Richmond (VA); On-site; USD 110,000 - 161,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Paid time off

401(k) retirement plan

Medical, dental, vision

Job summary

Environmental Resources Management (ERM) seeks a Principal Technical Consultant, Scientist in the Mid-Atlantic region to lead permitting and compliance for electric transmission, distribution, and renewable energy projects. You will guide regulatory strategy, manage complex frameworks, and build trusted client relationships across the region.

With 8+ years in power sector consulting, you will collaborate with ERM experts, drive schedules and budgets, travel up to 20%, and help shape sustainable

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s in Environmental Science, Natural Resources, or related field.
• 8+ years in consulting or industry 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.

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.

Skills

Regulatory leadership

Client relationship management

Technical writing

Project management

Environmental permitting

Education

Bachelor's/Master's in Environmental Science/Natural Resources

Job description

Environmental Resources Management (ERM) seeks a Principal Technical Consultant, Scientist in the Mid-Atlantic region to lead permitting and compliance for electric transmission, distribution, and renewable energy projects. You will guide regulatory strategy, manage complex frameworks, and build trusted client relationships across the region.

With 8+ years in power sector consulting, you will collaborate with ERM experts, drive schedules and budgets, travel up to 20%, and help shape sustainable