Permitting Coordinator (Field Based)

ERM•Walnut Creek, CA

20h•Onsite

About The Position

ERM is seeking Permitting Coordinators in the San Francisco, CA area to support their Permitting practice, specifically focusing on power-utility vegetation management across Northern California. This full-time, limited-term role (12 months with potential extension) requires a candidate with meticulous attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and excellent communication abilities to manage permit applications from inception to completion. The coordinator will be responsible for overseeing permit processes under tight deadlines, managing data, coordinating with various internal teams, and adapting to evolving regulatory landscapes. The position involves some on-site field work in northern California. ERM positions itself as the largest global pure-play sustainability consultancy, partnering with leading organizations to develop innovative solutions for sustainability challenges and to unlock commercial opportunities. The company emphasizes creating a diverse, equitable, and inclusive work environment, viewing diversity as a strength that enhances client solutions. ERM's approach, described as 'boots to boardroom,' involves providing comprehensive strategic and technical solutions to help clients operationalize sustainability goals and address environmental, health, safety, risk, and social issues.

Requirements

Associate or Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science, Natural Resource Management, or a related field—or equivalent professional experience may substitute for education.
1-3 years experience of supporting environmental or utility permitting
Experienced safety professional with knowledge of federal/state H&S regulations, contractor safety management, auditing, and safety program development;
Familiarity with encroachment packages for Agencies including Caltrans, State Parks, USFS and Local Water Districts
Exceptional attention to detail with strong organizational capabilities; able to manage multiple permit streams concurrently to meet tight deadlines and in a fast-paced setting.
Excellent verbal and written communication, with confidence interacting professionally with clients and regulatory personnel.
Proficiency in data handling and analysis—Excel skills required, with a willingness to learn new permitting software.
Adaptable, proactive, and solution-oriented approach when priorities shift or challenges arise.

Responsibilities

Lead and manage all aspects of permit applications related to vegetation management, ensuring full compliance with environmental and utility regulations.
Track and monitor application progress, providing timely updates and information to internal teams and client stakeholders.
Maintaining work to meet deadlines.
Engage and Coordinate with internal teams, including project managers and field teams to collect and verify necessary data for permits.
Build and maintain effective relationships with clients, regulatory agencies, and other relevant stakeholders to support timely permit issuance, including railroad easement permitting.
Actively participate and engage in team meetings and contribute to a collaborative, supportive work environment.
Support programmatic planning through research, staying current on regulatory changes, policy updates, and evolving permit processes.