Senior Environmental Planner

WRA, Inc. • CA

121d • $116,000 - $153,000

About The Position

WRA’s environmental planning team prepares environmental documents that enable projects in a variety of markets such as development, habitat restoration, renewable energy, public infrastructure, climate resiliency, and community access to move forward responsibly. We are seeking a seasoned Environmental Planner with strong technical expertise in CEQA and NEPA who brings a proven track record managing projects in restoration, parks and open space, renewable energy (especially solar), and water infrastructure. This individual’s qualifications and experience will be central to helping WRA win the kind of work we want to grow—projects that improve ecological health, strengthen community resiliency, and create sustainable solutions for the future. This role may be remote within the state of California.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in environmental studies, planning, science, or related field.
• 8–10 years of relevant experience preparing CEQA and NEPA documents, with clear progression in responsibility and complexity of projects.
• Demonstrated project management experience in restoration ecology, park/open space planning, renewable energy (especially solar), or water infrastructure.
• A solid understanding of current planning law and practice.
• Proven ability to manage clients, build strong relationships, and contribute to winning new work.
• Strong track record of managing budgets and schedules effectively.
• Background in biology, ecology, or environmental science is a plus.
• Experience mentoring junior staff and contributing to a culture of technical excellence.

Responsibilities

• Manage and lead environmental planning and permitting projects with a focus on habitat restoration, parks/open space, renewable energy, and water resources.
• Write and oversee the preparation of complex CEQA / NEPA documents including EIR/EIS, Subsequent, Supplemental, and Addendum documents, CEs, and IS/MNDs.
• Partner with team leaders and project delivery staff to deliver high-quality results on schedule and budget.
• Manage client and regulatory agency relationships and leverage existing client/agency relationships for the firm.
• Provide subject-matter expertise and guidance on CEQA/NEPA compliance, especially for restoration, solar, water, and park/open space projects.
• Mentor and train junior staff while ensuring technical excellence in work products.
• Represent clients in public hearings and agency decision-making forums with professionalism and authority.
• Leverage your qualifications and project experience to help WRA compete for and secure projects in restoration, renewable energy, water, and parks/open space sectors.
• Support proposal development and thought leadership through publications, presentations, and networking.
• Contribute to the growth and diversification of WRA’s environmental planning practice.

Benefits

• Employee-owned environmental consultancy with four decades of expertise.
• Commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and sustainability.
• Supportive workplace that encourages accountability and independence.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: Master's degree
• Number of Employees: 51-100 employees