Principal of Natural Resource - Energy & Compliance

Rincon Consultants, Inc•Sacramento, CA

12d•$150,000 - $190,000•Hybrid

About The Position

Rincon Consultants is seeking a Principal to support and expand our Renewable Energy practice throughout California and the western United States. This leadership role is responsible for overseeing environmental compliance programs for large-scale renewable energy and utility projects. The ideal candidate is a recognized technical expert with extensive experience leading environmental compliance programs for energy and utility clients. This individual will provide strategic regulatory guidance, direct multidisciplinary teams, oversee environmental compliance implementation, and serve as a trusted advisor to clients navigating complex environmental requirements. This role combines technical leadership, client management, program oversight, and business development, helping Rincon continue to grow its presence in California's rapidly evolving energy market.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Environmental Science, Biology, Environmental Policy, Natural Resources, Ecology, or a related field.
10+ years of progressive experience in environmental consulting, including project management, business development, and technical leadership within the energy sector, with a focus on overseeing high-stakes projects and driving business growth
Extensive experience with CEQA, NEPA, ESA, CESA, Clean Water Act, permitting, mitigation implementation, and agency consultation.
Exceptional communication, presentation, and organizational skills, with expertise in budgeting and client engagement, ensuring successful project delivery and business expansion in the renewable energy and utilities sectors
Strong business acumen and customer service skills, with active participation in industry organizations and leadership in regulatory and industry standards
Proven ability to streamline processes and workflows for greater efficiency while managing and building collaborative teams
Proficiency with digital tools and platforms (e.g., SharePoint), with strong file management, time management, and organizational skills to handle complex projects

Responsibilities

Manage compliance efforts on large-scale infrastructure projects for renewable energy and utility projects, coordinating with developers, contractors, and regulatory agencies.
Oversee complex environmental compliance projects, ensuring adherence to permit requirements related to biological, cultural, and water resources (e.g. CEQA, NEPA, Clean Water Act, Endangered Species Act, Coastal Act) and other conditions under CEQA and/or NEPA.
Direct and perform final QA/QC review of compliance documentation, technical studies, permit applications, monitoring reports, and regulatory deliverables.
Advise clients on regulatory strategy, permitting pathways, risk management, and compliance solutions throughout project development and construction.
Lead the development and oversight of Rincon’s statewide Energy and Utilities market, collaborating with other Rincon leaders.
Manage key client relationships and support renewable energy production and utility projects.
Drive business development, including proposal preparation, client outreach, marketing, and strategic planning for the Energy and Utilities market.
Align business development efforts with other service lines to pursue strategic opportunities.
Oversee business operations, including contract and risk management, ensuring program efficiency and compliance.
Provide final quality assurance reviews for technical studies and ensure projects meet schedule and budget goals.
Delegate and manage technical assignments to ensure successful project completion.
Guide Rincon’s renewable energy and utilities services, ensuring regulatory compliance and operational excellence.
Recruit and develop qualified staff for renewable energy and utilities programs.
Mentor senior staff on strategic thinking, business development, and program management.
Lead and motivate teams to ensure high performance and productivity, while managing performance reviews and professional development.