Principal Consultant, Environmental FERC Project Manager

ERM•Houston, TX

About The Position

ERM is seeking an experienced Principal Consultant, Environmental FERC Project Manager to lead environmental permitting and compliance for Natural Gas Act-regulated projects across the United States. The role serves as a strategic advisor to clients on natural gas pipeline, LNG, and gas storage projects, guiding work from early planning and development through construction and operations. It involves navigating regulatory processes, environmental permitting requirements, and stakeholder expectations while delivering project outcomes on schedule, within budget, and to quality standards. The position provides leadership for complex, geographically diverse projects and multidisciplinary teams. It also contributes to ERM’s growth through client relationship development, strategic positioning, proposal work, industry engagement, and market development. The position is based in a flexible U.S. location and requires frequent travel to client locations across a large geographical area. A valid driver’s license and/or the ability to operate a company vehicle is required. ERM describes itself as the largest global pure-play sustainability consultancy, partnering with organizations to develop sustainability solutions. It emphasizes a diverse, equitable, and inclusive work environment and a comprehensive “boots to boardroom” service model combining strategic and technical expertise.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Studies, Planning, Engineering, Geology, or a related field, or equivalent experience.
Prior consulting experience and demonstrated expertise managing FERC-regulated projects.
At least 6 years of experience in environmental impact assessment and permitting for FERC-regulated projects.
At least 5 years of experience managing large-scale natural gas and LNG permitting projects.
Strong knowledge of NEPA and key natural resource regulations, including the Clean Water Act, Rivers and Harbors Act, National Historic Preservation Act, and Endangered Species Act.
Demonstrated ability to manage complex, multi-site projects while meeting scope, schedule, budget, and quality objectives.
Exceptional written and verbal communication skills for engaging clients, regulators, agencies, stakeholders, and project teams.
Initiative, critical thinking, and problem-solving abilities to develop approaches, resolve issues, and achieve project outcomes.
Valid driver’s license and/or ability to operate a company vehicle; duties include frequent travel to client locations across a large geographical area.

Nice To Haves

10 or more years of experience in environmental impact assessment and permitting for FERC-regulated projects is preferred.
Established relationships with federal, state, and local regulatory agencies.
Experience supporting business development, proposal preparation, and client account growth.
Demonstrated success leading large, multidisciplinary teams across multiple locations and project phases.
Experience supporting major capital infrastructure projects in the natural gas, LNG, and energy sectors.

Responsibilities

Lead permitting and compliance efforts for Natural Gas Act-regulated projects across the United States.
Advise clients and guide projects from early planning and development through construction and operations.
Represent ERM in industry forums, regulatory discussions, and professional engagements.
Manage large, multifaceted projects and ensure scope, budget, schedule, and quality expectations are achieved.
Serve as the primary client contact and lead interdisciplinary teams through environmental permitting, compliance, and regulatory approvals.
Direct preparation and management of FERC applications and coordinate project activities with federal, state, and local agencies.
Provide strategic guidance on environmental planning, permitting pathways, and regulatory compliance requirements.
Develop technical proposals, identify new business opportunities, and maintain long-term client relationships.
Oversee quality assurance and quality control for technical reports, environmental analyses, and permit application packages.
Coordinate with internal technical specialists and external stakeholders to support project execution and client outcomes.
Monitor project performance, manage risks, and develop solutions to keep projects progressing effectively.
Support ERM’s growth strategy through thought leadership, industry engagement, and market development initiatives.
Provide leadership and mentorship to multidisciplinary project teams and foster technical excellence and collaboration.