Principal Consultant, Environmental FERC Project Manager

ERM•Minneapolis, MN

21h•Hybrid

About The Position

At ERM, we are seeking a seasoned leader to influence the next era of energy development as a Principal Consultant, Environmental FERC Project Manager. This role involves guiding clients through complex regulatory landscapes and making a lasting impact on the energy transition. Energy infrastructure is at a turning point, and as a Principal Consultant, you will be a trusted advisor for major natural gas, LNG, and emerging energy projects, helping clients achieve compliance, sustainability, and success in a rapidly evolving market. Your expertise will directly influence policy, permitting, and the future of clean energy solutions. This position requires prior consulting experience and FERC experience. ERM is the largest global pure play sustainability consultancy, partnering with leading organizations to create innovative solutions to sustainability challenges and unlock commercial opportunities. The company aims to meet today's needs while preserving opportunities for future generations. ERM fosters a diverse, equitable, and inclusive work environment, viewing diversity as a strength that helps create better solutions for clients. Their team of world-class experts supports clients across their organizations to operationalize sustainability, underpinned by deep technical expertise in environmental, health, safety, risk, and social issues. This 'boots to boardroom' approach allows ERM to develop strategic and technical solutions that advance objectives on the ground or at the executive level. ERM partners with clients to operationalize sustainability at pace and scale, through a unique combination of strategic transformation and technical delivery capabilities. With over 50 years of experience, ERM integrates sustainability solutions and offers extensive technical knowledge. The team is passionate about client service, working closely with clients to help them operationalize sustainability goals and meet environmental, health, and safety objectives, while advancing ERM’s purpose through tangible progress in The Decade of Action. ERM recruits exceptional professionals with a passion for sustainability, nurturing them to become specialists and preparing them to bring integrated, innovative, and sustainable solutions to clients, providing opportunities for ongoing development.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent experience) in Environmental Studies, Planning, Engineering, Geology, or related field.
Prior consulting experience.
FERC project expertise essential.
6+ years in environmental impact assessment and permitting for FERC-regulated projects.
At least 5 years managing large-scale natural gas and LNG permitting projects.
Deep knowledge of NEPA and key natural resource regulations (Clean Water Act, Rivers and Harbors Act, NHPA, ESA).
Proven ability to manage complex, multi-site projects on time and within budget.
Exceptional communication skills for engaging clients, agencies, and stakeholders.

Nice To Haves

Advanced degree in a relevant discipline.
Experience with hydrogen, renewables, and carbon sequestration projects.
Established industry network and demonstrated business development success.

Responsibilities

Lead permitting and compliance for Natural Gas Act-regulated projects nationwide.
Serve as a strategic partner to clients, guiding projects from concept through operations.
Represent ERM in industry forums and regulatory discussions, shaping policy and best practices.
Expand ERM’s leadership in natural gas, LNG, hydrogen, renewables, and carbon sequestration.
Drive business growth through client development and innovative project delivery.
Manage large, multi-faceted projects, ensuring scope, budget, and timelines are met.
Act as primary client contact and lead interdisciplinary teams through permitting and compliance phases.
Oversee FERC applications and coordinate with federal, state, and local agencies.
Develop technical proposals, identify new opportunities, and maintain strong client relationships.
Represent ERM in strategic regulatory meetings and industry forums.
Ensure quality control across environmental impact assessments and compliance deliverables.