Principal Environmental Scientist (Natural Resources)
Our Principal Scientist position can be performed remotely; however, the ideal candidate will be based in Southern California and bring strong California-specific regulatory and environmental expertise. As a key member of the leadership team, this role will be responsible for a wide range of activities including:
- Leading complex environmental compliance projects from planning strategy through execution.
- Working closely with clients and technical expert team and planners to solve problems and provide regulatory insight and risk-based guidance.
- Collaborating with internal subject matter experts (biologists, archaeologists, GIS specialists, planners, regulatory specialists, and engineers) and external technical partners, protection agencies, and state or federal lead agencies.
- Overseeing proposals and business development activities, including leading proposals, cost estimating, and interview execution.
- QA/QC oversight of high-volume programs/projects.
- Project staffing, budget and schedule management
- Mentoring and developing staff, fostering technical excellence and professional growth.
- Supporting business development and strategic growth initiatives alongside other Principals.
- Maintaining compliance with all safety, confidentiality, and company policies.
- Staying current on industry trends, regulations, and best practices through continuous professional development.
- Working collaboratively with the core Principal team and working independently.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
YOUR EXPERTISE AND SKILLS The Principal Scientist is a recognized technical authority and strategic leader, responsible for regulatory certainty, project success, and long-term client trust. Required Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in biology, urban planning, environmental science, or related field.
- Master’s degree preferred but not required.
- Minimum of 15 years of relevant professional experience (12 years with a Master’s degree).
- Experience with utilities and/or renewable energy projects strongly preferred.
- Experience serving as senior regulatory liaison with permitting agencies preferred.
- Knowledge of current environmental compliance and city/state development regulations.
- Strong familiarity with California natural resources and impact analyses/assessments.
- Experience leading the regulatory permitting process, including experience working with the USACE, USFWS, BLM, USFS, CDFW, and RWQCB.
- Proven ability to operate independently while leading multidisciplinary technical teams.
- Experience as a people manager providing mentorship to elevate the skillsets of staff and provide career growth opportunities.
- Proven success leading proposals and competitive pursuits.
- Excellent written communication skills, ability to write and oversee complex technical documents, memorandum, or reports.
- Experience leading projects/programs and working in dynamic, collaborative environments that require flexibility in assuming new roles and changing project directions.
- Advanced proficiency with Microsoft Office; working knowledge of tools such as ArcGIS and AutoCAD preferred.
- Willingness and ability to travel locally as needed.