Principal Environmental Planner - Project Manager

GFT. • Chicago, IL

2d • $125,000 - $145,000 • Hybrid

About The Position

GFT is seeking an experienced Principal Environmental Planner/Project Manager to join their growing Environmental team. This is a hybrid position reporting to the Chicago, IL office. As a Principal Environmental Planner, the candidate will join a multi-disciplinary team to engage with public and private sector clients, manage contracts and task orders for large environmental planning programs, and coordinate with the team to complete environmental compliance processes and documentation. This role will primarily focus on leading environmental compliance and permitting work on roadway transportation, transit and other infrastructure projects. Depending on the project assignment, the candidate could serve as a project manager, deputy project manager, task manager, or environmental lead. Technical responsibilities include providing guidance and management of NEPA and permitting efforts, providing planning assistance to design teams for project development, and interacting with agencies and the public. The selected candidate will also function as a mentor to staff and manage client relationships.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in planning, Environmental Science, Engineering, Biology, Physical Sciences or related field
• 15+ years of progressive, relevant experience or demonstrated equivalency of experience and/or education in environmental planning, including linear infrastructure, facility siting, permitting, and community engagement, and impact assessment (analytical/technical writing) for NEPA and related regulatory requirements
• Ability to obtain IDOT Pre-Qualifications for Environmental Lead for EA, EIS, and additional certifications
• Experience managing environmental compliance projects or programs, requiring coordination of interdisciplinary teams, management of budgets, and meeting schedules
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills as well as interpersonal skills to effectively manage projects and interact with teams of staff, subconsultants and clients

Nice To Haves

• American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP), Certified Environmental Professional or equivalent certification
• Experience in marketing and business development efforts and the sales process in pursuit of new business
• Detail oriented
• Ability to collaborate within a team environment
• Leadership, negotiation and conflict resolution skills

Responsibilities

• Lead environmental planning and regulatory compliance work and support the development of environmental documents and studies in compliance with NEPA and other state and federal environmental regulations.
• Perform project management duties on NEPA/environmental planning projects by monitoring budget, scope and schedule and being accountable for project performance.
• Establish and execute a NEPA/environmental planning focused business development/growth strategy for both new and existing clients in the Chicago and U.S. Central region transportation market. Develop and expand client relationships that generate new or repeat business.
• Provide leadership in mentoring personnel, including reviewing their work for accuracy and clarity and providing constructive feedback on project tasks.
• 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.
• 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