Regulatory SME

GHD • San Luis Obispo, CA

2d

About The Position

We’re committed to helping our clients responsibly develop energy resources while protecting the environment and communities where they operate. Join our global network of engineers, scientists, planners, and environmental specialists working together to deliver sustainable solutions for the energy sector. We are seeking an Upstream Oil & Gas Regulatory Subject Matter Expert with deep California regulatory expertise. This individual will provide technical leadership, regulatory strategy, and client-facing advisory support focused on upstream oil and gas operations. The role supports project delivery, business development, and regulatory risk management across exploration, drilling, production, and remediation activities.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, geology, environmental science, or related field
• 15+ years of upstream oil & gas regulatory experience
• Demonstrated leadership in remediation, spill response, and enforcement negotiations
• Excellent technical writing and executive communication skills
• Willingness to travel

Nice To Haves

• CalGEM authority under Public Resources Code Division 3 and Title 14 CCR governing permitting, well integrity, idling, and abandonment
• Spill response and cleanup requirements under Health & Safety Code and Porter‑Cologne Act with Regional Water Board coordination
• Environmental remediation, waste classification, and corrective action within California’s enhanced environmental justice and enforcement framework

Responsibilities

• Serve as the regulatory SME for upstream oil & gas activities in California
• Advise clients on permitting, compliance, enforcement risk, spill response, and remediation strategy
• Lead regulatory assessments, audits, corrective action programs, and closure planning
• Interface directly with state and local regulatory agencies
• Monitor regulatory trends, enforcement priorities, and rulemakings
• Support proposal development, client negotiations, and strategic growth initiatives
• Mentor and develop internal technical staff

What This Job Offers

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