Managing Consultant, Scientist, Program Manager

ERM•Walnut Creek, CA

1d•$90,352 - $124,868

About The Position

Are you ready to lead high-impact programs that shape the future of sustainable energy? At ERM , you’ll join a collaborative team committed to delivering sustainable solutions for complex environmental challenges. If you thrive in a dynamic setting and enjoy leading large-scale programs that make a measurable impact, we’d love to hear from you. Why This Role Matters ERM is seeking an experienced Managing Consultant, Scientist, Program Manager to oversee vegetation management permitting programs for power sector clients in Northern California . This is your opportunity to drive strategic alignment, streamline complex processes, and deliver measurable results that keep critical infrastructure running smoothly and responsibly. What Your Impact Is As Program Manager, you’ll be the cornerstone of a regional program—guiding strategy, ensuring compliance, and fostering collaboration across environmental, operational, and client teams. You’ll manage a portfolio of permitting activities under a unified framework, champion process improvements, and serve as the trusted advisor to client leadership. Your work will directly influence program efficiency, regulatory adherence, and the success of large-scale initiatives.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science, Business, Project Management, or related field. Or equivalent experience.
Minimum 4 years leading cross-functional teams in consulting, utility, or environmental services.
Proven ability to manage multi-project programs and lead multidisciplinary teams.
Strong organizational and strategic planning skills with the ability to manage competing priorities.
Excellent communication and client engagement skills, with a track record of building strong relationships.
Proficiency in program and project management tools (MS Project, Smartsheet, Excel), GIS platforms, and Microsoft Office Suite.

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree in a related field.
PMP, Lean Six Sigma, or similar leadership certifications.
7+ years of program/project management experience in similar contexts.

Responsibilities

Co-lead a regional program team and oversee Project Managers, ensuring alignment with client objectives and contractual deliverables.
Own program strategy, performance, and delivery of all commitments under the contract.
Drive staff planning, resource allocation, and organizational structure to support program success.
Serve as a primary liaison with client leadership counterparts, maintaining proactive communication and strategic alignment.
Facilitate collaboration across environmental, operational, and permitting teams to resolve constraints and maintain compliance.
Manage budgets, forecasting, and financial performance; ensure accurate reporting and cost control.
Develop tools and dashboards to provide visibility into program status, risks, and performance metrics.
Establish QA/QC standards for permit packages and documentation; ensure adherence to municipal and environmental regulations.
Identify and implement opportunities to streamline workflows and improve permitting turnaround times.
Utilize MS Project and Excel for scheduling, tracking, and reporting; ensure familiarity with GIS and data workflows.