Consulting Associate, Environmental Scientist/Permitting Specialist

ERM • Washington, DC

5d • Hybrid

About The Position

ERM is seeking a Consulting Associate, Environmental Scientist / Permitting Specialist to join our Capital Project Development (CPD) team in Washington, DC. This is an exciting early‑career opportunity to build hands‑on experience supporting complex land development and capital infrastructure projects across the Mid‑Atlantic—while working alongside leading environmental consultants, project managers, and partners. In this role, you will contribute to high‑impact projects spanning renewable energy, power, oil and gas, mining, and technology. You’ll play a meaningful role in shaping how projects move from concept to reality—supporting environmental assessments, field surveys, and permitting strategies that help clients responsibly develop critical infrastructure. At ERM, your work matters, your voice is valued, and your career development is intentional. As a Consulting Associate within ERM’s Capital Project Development team, you will help advance projects that balance economic growth, environmental protection, and regulatory compliance. Your work directly supports sustainable development, responsible land use, and informed decision‑making for some of the most critical energy and infrastructure investments in the region.

Requirements

• BS in environmental science, biology, natural resources, or a related discipline. Or equivalent experience
• 0–2 years of relevant experience
• Strong commitment to safety and ability to work safely outdoors in variable weather conditions and challenging terrain
• Detail‑oriented mindset with strong critical thinking and problem‑solving skills
• Effective written and verbal communication skills, with strong organization and analytical abilities
• Willingness and ability to support field assignments for extended periods as needed
• Strong technical report writing skills, including experience recording and documenting detailed technical data
• Experience building tables and spreadsheets, including tabulation and manipulation of data
• Demonstrated consulting attributes: team‑oriented, eager to learn and grow, proactive, adaptable, and service‑focused
• Highly organized with a keen eye for detail, while maintaining awareness of the bigger picture
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications
• Driver's License Required: This position requires a valid driver's license and/or the ability to operate a company vehicle due to the nature of job duties, which include frequent travel to various client locations across a large geographical area
• Ability to pass a pre‑hire background check and drug test
• This position is not eligible for immigration sponsorship.

Nice To Haves

• Education and/or experience in the energy sector
• Familiarity with environmental field survey techniques and wetland delineations
• Working knowledge of sub‑meter accuracy GPS technologies and map interpretation (e.g., NWI, USGS, aerial photography)
• Experience with GIS software
• Technical background in wetlands, protected species management, land development permitting, or related disciplines

Responsibilities

• Support environmental due diligence, permitting, and impact assessments for complex land development and infrastructure projects
• Contribute to regulatory research, environmental policy analysis, and technical documentation that informs project approvals
• Conduct field surveys and collect, organize, and analyze environmental data that shapes project strategy and outcomes
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams and subject matter experts to deliver high‑quality, fit‑for‑purpose consulting solutions
• Build a strong foundation in environmental consulting while developing technical and project delivery skills across sectors
• Conduct environmental assessment tasks including land use planning and facility siting, pipeline and transmission routing studies, renewable energy desktop and field‑based assessments, environmental reporting, and development of permit matrices and permit applications
• With appropriate guidance and supervision, deliver creative, fit‑for‑purpose technical analyses within areas of specialization while supporting analyses outside primary expertise in collaboration with ERM subject matter experts
• Perform project delivery activities such as field surveys, data collection and organization, regulatory and literature research, report writing, permitting documentation, and development of client strategies and recommendations
• Provide technical assistance on capital infrastructure projects, including NEPA environmental assessments and environmental impact statements, environmental due diligence, habitat assessments, wetland delineations and reports, Phase I Environmental Site Assessments, and related environmental documentation
• Assist with preparation of project‑specific compliance management plans in alignment with federal, state, and local regulatory requirements
• Develop permitting and compliance documentation with emphasis on coordination with U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, National Marine Fisheries Service, and state and local agencies
• Work within established quality, budget, and schedule expectations while developing a foundational understanding of project management responsibilities
• Collaborate as an integral member of the Capital Project Development team and support overall team goals

Benefits

• paid time off
• parental leave
• medical, dental, vision, life, disability, AD&D insurance
• 401(k) or RRSP/DPSP
• other applicable benefits to eligible employees

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level