[Hiring] Principal Environmental Planner @SWCA Environmental Consultants

Role Description

SWCA Environmental Consultants is seeking a Principal Environmental Planner to support our growing portfolio of complex, multidisciplinary environmental projects across the Gulf Coast and the broader Southeast. This is a high-impact leadership opportunity for a seasoned project manager who thrives in a dynamic, fast-paced environment and is passionate about delivering technical excellence, driving client success, and mentoring high-performing teams.

This is a regular (with benefits), full-time, salaried position open to candidates based in the Gulf Coast, with flexibility for distributed (remote) work. Pay rate will be based on individual qualifications and experience.

• Lead projects spanning infrastructure, energy, resilience, and environmental planning efforts.
• Ensure compliance with local, state, and federal regulations.
• Shape technical approaches and strengthen client relationships.
• Advance SWCA’s reputation for quality and innovation.
• Periodic travel throughout the region will be required for client engagement, project oversight, and team collaboration.

Qualifications

• Minimum of a Bachelor’s Degree in Biology, Ecology, Environmental Science, or other related field (Master’s preferred).
• Minimum of ten (10) years of relevant experience.
• Minimum of five (5) years of project management experience in a consulting environment.
• Demonstrated experience in the development of environmental permit applications and NEPA documents.
• Proven experience with agencies such as: FERC, DOE, USACE, and/or similar state agencies.
• Experience with project financials (budgets, forecasting, invoicing).
• Demonstrated client management and business development experience (seller-doer).
• Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.

Requirements

• Minimum of twelve (12) years of relevant experience (preferred).
• Minimum of seven (7) years of project management experience in a consulting environment (preferred).
• First-hand experience in developing environmental permit applications and documents pertaining to the authorization of FERC-regulated facilities.
• Established credibility with reviewing agencies and clients.
• Effectively engaged in resource agency consultations.
• Demonstrated experience with construction compliance or environmental inspection.
• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and technical writing.

Benefits

• Competitive salaries and benefits package, including medical, dental, vision, wellness, life, and disability coverage.
• Access to Employee Assistance Program.
• Participation in SWCA’s 401(k) Profit Sharing Plan and Trust.
• Performance bonuses for regular-status employees.
• Support for career development through conference attendance, training, and education reimbursement.