Subject Matter Expert - NEPA & CEQA

Olsson • Washington, DC

17d

About The Position

At Olsson, we help our clients navigate complex regulatory landscapes with ease. We ensure proactive compliance with key environmental laws, including the National Environmental Policy Act, Clean Water Act, Endangered Species Act, Migratory Bird Treaty Act, and Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act. Our approach and use of the latest and best methods help clients achieve their project goals while protecting our natural resources.
As a NEPA & CEQA Subject Matter Expert, you will serve as a trusted advisor responsible for elevating the firm’s environmental infrastructure discipline. This role emphasizes technical excellence, mentorship, regulatory expertise, and high‑level review of environmental deliverables. You will guide multidisciplinary teams, advance innovative approaches, and ensure the highest standards of quality across environmental planning, permitting, and biological resource services. The Subject Matter Expert provides strategic direction on environmental design, analysis, and compliance activities across the firm, with a focus on technical performance, innovation, and regulatory rigor.

Requirements

• Strong communication skills.
• Ability to contribute and work well on a team.
• Bachelor’s degree in biology, ecology, environmental science, environmental policy, natural resource management, or related field.
• 15+ years of experience in environmental consulting, including permitting and regulatory compliance.
• Strong technical background and experience with NEPA/CEQA and ESA.
• Experience in leading and mentoring others.
• Innovative and proactive approach to problem-solving.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Commitment to continuous learning and professional development, including participation in professional organizations.

Responsibilities

• Serve as a firmwide subject matter expert, providing internal and external leadership on environmental compliance, permitting, biological resources, NEPA/CEQA documentation, and marine species protection.
• Provide strategic direction and consultation to project teams and clients on complex environmental issues, regulatory pathways, and technical methodologies.
• Ensure compliance with local, state, and federal environmental regulations, including NEPA, CEQA, ESA, CWA and other applicable biological and ecological requirements. Prepare and review environmental analyses, technical reports, and permitting documentation.
• Maintain a strong external reputation as an industry leader, contributing to the profession through publications, conference presentations, and participation in scientific or regulatory working groups.
• Promote efficiencies and uphold quality standards, ensuring environmental deliverables meet the highest levels of scientific rigor and regulatory defensibility.
• Research and analyze environmental data, trends, and emerging technologies, providing insights and recommendations related to biological resources, habitat conservation, and environmental planning.
• Build and maintain relationships with key stakeholders, including regulatory agencies, scientific partners, and industry organizations, to stay informed of evolving policies and opportunities for collaboration.
• Represent the firm in professional organizations, advisory committees, or regulatory forums to elevate both the environmental discipline and the firm’s visibility.
• Lead and manage environmental projects from early planning through implementation, including scoping, technical strategy, budgeting, scheduling, and quality oversight.
• Mentor and develop staff, fostering technical growth, scientific excellence, and consistency across environmental practice areas.

Benefits

• Receive a competitive 401(k) match
• Be empowered to build your career with tailored development paths
• Have the possibility for flexible work arrangements
• Engage in work that has a positive impact on communities
• Participate in a wellness program promoting balanced lifestyles
• In addition, full-time employees will receive our traditional benefits package (health care, vision, dental, paid time off, etc.) and the opportunity to participate in a bonus system that rewards performance.

What This Job Offers

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