Senior Environmental Planner

Rincon Consultants • San Luis Obispo, CA

121d • $108,000 - $154,000 • Remote

About The Position

Rincon Consultants is seeking a Senior Environmental Planner to join our growing Environmental Planning team and lead our Healthy Communities service area. This leadership role focuses on CEQA environmental review for land use development and water infrastructure projects, while also driving business development, client management, and team leadership. The ideal candidate will bring deep expertise in CEQA, a passion for community-focused planning, and the ability to grow client relationships and mentor staff. You'll work closely with Rincon's Principals and Managers to shape strategy, deliver high-quality work, and expand our impact across California. While this role may offer flexible work arrangements that can include a mix of in-office and remote work, our changing business needs will ultimately determine our level of remote-work flexibility. Additionally, to promote in-person collaboration and client teaming, we prioritize hiring those who reside within 50 miles of a Rincon office which currently includes: Carlsbad, Fresno, Los Angeles, Monterey, Oakland, Palm Springs, Riverside, Sacramento, San Luis Obispo, San Diego, San Jose, Santa Barbara, and Ventura. The ideal candidate will be based in Santa Barbara, San Luis Obispo, or Ventura, though other California locations may also be considered.

Requirements

• A BA/BS (or higher) in urban planning, geography, or a related field; Master's degree preferred.
• 10+ years of experience in environmental planning, policy, or consulting, including supervisory and client-facing roles.
• Proven success managing CEQA/NEPA-compliant projects and public-facing planning efforts.
• Strong understanding of California planning and environmental policy.
• Excellent writing, communication, facilitation, and proposal development skills.
• A track record of building client relationships and contributing to business development.
• Willingness to travel within California as needed.

Responsibilities

• Lead the preparation, review, and approval of CEQA documents, ensuring compliance and promoting innovative, high-quality work products.
• Manage multidisciplinary teams of planners and analysts, providing mentorship and technical guidance.
• Coordinate with internal departments, external agencies, and stakeholders to facilitate project approvals.
• Represent Rincon at public hearings (Planning Commission, City Council, Board of Supervisors), workshops, and consultations.
• Conduct QA/QC reviews of CEQA documents and reports prior to Principal-level review.
• Build and maintain strong client relationships, contributing to proposal development and strategic business growth.
• Promote a culture of collaboration, quality service, and client satisfaction.
• Serve as a thought leader in environmental planning, enhancing Rincon's reputation and visibility.

Benefits

• Comprehensive health benefits including HMO, PPO, HDHP, and Health Savings Account options.
• Employer-paid life and long-term disability insurance.
• Dental, vision, and prescription drug coverage.
• Three weeks of vacation accrual in the first year.
• Paid sick leave and paid holidays.
• 401(k) / Profit Sharing Retirement Plan.
• Bonus opportunities.
• Opportunities for professional development and mentoring.
• Volunteer Pay for a Day.
• Flexible Spending & Dependent Care.
• Supplemental life insurance.
• Legal Shield and Identity Protection.
• Pet Insurance.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Industry: Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services
• Education Level: Master's degree