Principal Environmental Planner / NEPA Lead

GFT. • Virginia Beach, VA

2d • $140,000 - $190,000 • Hybrid

About The Position

GFT is seeking an experienced Principal Environmental Planner/NEPA Lead. This hybrid position may be located in Texas, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, New York, New Jersey, or South Florida. GFT’s Environmental team delivers integrated planning, permitting, and compliance solutions that support infrastructure development across North America. Our team guides clients through Environmental Assessments and permitting processes, ecological and regulatory assessments, and environmental remediation efforts on projects that span transportation, power, water, and facilities markets. From environmental approvals to complex planning solutions, GFT helps clients protect resources, manage risk, and meet regulatory requirements with confidence. The successful candidate would join our multi-disciplinary team to engage with our expanding pool of public and private sector clients, manage complex contracts and task orders for large environmental planning programs, and participate in a significant way to implement a growth strategy to increase market share and revenues.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Environmental Science, Engineering, Planning, Biology, Physical Sciences, or related field.
• 20 years of progressive, relevant experience or demonstrated equivalency of experience and/or education in environmental planning, including linear infrastructure, facility siting, permitting, community engagement, and impact assessment (analytical/technical writing) for NEPA or similar requirements.
• Demonstrated ability to apply sound business acumen and strategies to prepare technical proposals and fee estimates on large, complex projects and programs that respond to our clients’ needs.
• Demonstrated leadership, negotiation, and conflict resolution skills.
• Experience with preparing and executing business development strategies and helping to grow revenues and client portfolios.
• Experience managing complex environmental compliance projects or programs, requiring coordination of interdisciplinary teams, management of budget(s), and meeting schedule(s).
• Successfully interface with clients and other teaming partners (e.g., JV partners).
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills as well as interpersonal skills to effectively manage projects and interact with teams of staff, subconsultants, and clients.
• Experience in marketing and business development efforts in pursuit of new business.
• Must be self-motivated, detail-oriented, and able to collaborate within a team environment.
• Proficient with MS Office Suite.
• Valid US Driver’s License.

Nice To Haves

• Professional certification (AICP, PMP, or similar) is preferred but not required.

Responsibilities

• Lead environmental planning and compliance work and support the development of environmental documents and studies in compliance with NEPA, and other state and federal environmental regulations.
• Be an effective client liaison on NEPA projects.
• Prepare effective technical and cost proposals and take an active role in the development of new business through internal cross selling and through developing and expanding client relationships that generate new business.
• Perform project management role on NEPA/environmental planning projects by monitoring budget, scope and schedule and being accountable for project performance.
• Collaborate with project teams to develop technical work programs designed to provide innovative and progressive project solutions.
• Provide leadership in mentoring personnel, including reviewing their work for accuracy and clarity and providing constructive feedback on project tasks.
• Carry out supervisory responsibilities, including planning, assigning, and directing work; evaluating and coaching team member performance.
• Oversee and manage subcontractor coordination on projects and ensure adherence to quality protocols, and client satisfaction.

Benefits

• Hybrid (in-person and remote) work environment.
• Comprehensive benefits package including wellness programs, parental leave, and pet insurance, in addition to medical, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance.
• Tax-deferred 401(k) savings plan.
• Competitive paid-time-off (PTO) accrual.
• Tuition reimbursement for continued education.
• Commitment to professional development, access to internal and external training programs, and support of active participation in professional organizations.
• Incentive compensation for eligible positions.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Principal