Principal Consultant, Planner

ERM•Irvine, DC

5d•Hybrid

About The Position

Lead the Future of Sustainable Infrastructure. Step into a leadership role where transportation strategy meets global impact. At ERM, as a Principal Consultant, Planning Engineer / Transportation, based in Washington, DC (hybrid), you’ll help shape the trajectory of major capital projects that enable the energy transition and sustainable infrastructure worldwide. This is a strategic, high-visibility opportunity to influence how complex projects are planned, approved, and delivered—while mentoring others and growing a best-in-class transportation practice. Transportation planning sits at the core of every successful infrastructure project. In this role, you’ll provide strategic direction and technical leadership across a diverse portfolio—from electric transmission and renewable energy (wind, solar, hydropower, battery storage) to large-scale extractive projects. Your expertise will ensure projects are compliant, efficient, and aligned with both U.S. regulatory standards and global sustainability benchmarks—directly advancing ERM’s mission to deliver innovative, responsible solutions.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, Transportation Engineering, Urban/Transportation Planning, or related field or equivalent experience.
6+ years (10+ years preferred) of progressive experience in transportation planning/engineering for major capital projects.
Strong expertise in U.S. transportation standards and frameworks (NEPA, FHWA/FTA guidance, HCM, MUTCD) and state/local requirements.
Excellent communication skills, with the ability to translate complex technical concepts into clear insights for clients and stakeholders.
Authorization to work in the U.S.

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree in Transportation Engineering/Planning or related field
Professional licensure or certification (PE, PTOE, AICP, RSP, or equivalent).
Proficiency in transportation and traffic modeling tools (Synchro/SimTraffic, HCS, VISSIM/SIDRA, GIS, travel demand modeling).
Experience supporting international projects and working within IFI-funded frameworks.
Demonstrated success in business development and industry thought leadership.

Responsibilities

Lead transportation analyses for U.S.-based projects, ensuring alignment with state DOT requirements and global best practices.
Deliver IFC-compliant Environmental and Social Impact Assessments (ESIA) for international initiatives.
Shape project outcomes by defining methodologies, contributing to proposals, and guiding technical strategy.
Expand ERM’s transportation planning capabilities through business development, client engagement, and thought leadership.
Mentor and develop emerging talent, strengthening team capability and impact.
Lead multimodal transportation impact assessments (road, rail, vessel, air) for both construction and operational phases of major projects.
Develop and apply methodologies aligned with NEPA, FHWA/FTA guidance, state/local regulations, and international standards.
Contribute to proposal development by defining scope, methodology, and level of effort for transportation components.
Build and strengthen client relationships while leading pursuits for new transportation planning opportunities.
Mentor junior team members and foster an inclusive, collaborative, and high-performing team culture.
Occasional travel for client meetings and field reviews across project locations