Senior Environmental Planner
About The Position
We are 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. This role may offer a hybrid work setup, blending time in the office with remote work as business needs evolve. We enjoy coming together in person to collaborate, connect with teammates, and partner with clients, and may prioritize candidates who live within 50 miles of a Rincon office. Eligible office locations for this role include: 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
- 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.
Nice To Haves
- Master's degree preferred.
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
- We offer a comprehensive Total Rewards Package designed to support employee well-being, growth, and financial security. Our benefits are designed to offer flexibility and choice, including health coverage options, employer-sponsored insurance, retirement benefits, generous time off, and programs that support learning, growth, and community engagement.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Senior
Number of Employees
251-500 employees
