[Hiring] Environmental Planner/Project Manager @Spheros Environmental

Role Description

The Environmental Planner/Project Manager prepares and manages CEQA and NEPA environmental documents and permitting efforts, supporting the project team to achieve specific and measurable goals for quality, schedule, budget, and client satisfaction. Depending on experience, the role ranges from leading resource sections and serving as Deputy Project Manager to fully managing small and medium-sized projects (generally up to $150,000 budgets) with support from a Project Director. They chart the project’s process, direct subconsultants and technical experts, relay key findings to clients and agencies, and mentor Environmental Analysts and Environmental Planners.

Key Responsibilities:

• Technical
  • Prepares and leads CEQA and NEPA documents, including Initial Studies, Environmental Impact Reports, Environmental Impact Statements, and Environmental Assessments, with analysis of environmental impacts and development of mitigation measures.
  • Leads preparation of resource sections and serves as Task or Technical Topic Manager on large projects; develops expertise in at least one technical area (e.g., air quality, noise, biology).
  • Prepares project descriptions, interprets design plans and documents, and prepares permit applications.
  • Understands applicable regulations, common case law, company standards, and client-specific requirements. Reviews team members’ work for clarity, consistency, and technical adequacy.
  • Implements Quality Assurance and Quality Control procedures and coordinates document review and production with the Document Manager.
  • Clearly communicates technical concepts, both verbally and in writing.
  • Constantly seeks knowledge and provides an environment that encourages innovation. Proactively takes lead in implementing innovation into projects and delivery processes.
  • Other ad hoc duties and responsibilities as assigned.
• Project Management
  • Manages all aspects of the environmental review process for small to medium-sized projects; serves as Deputy Project Manager on larger projects.
  • Tracks project budgets and schedules, prepares invoices, completes contract stipulation summaries for new projects, and completes quarterly contract audit checklists.
  • Coordinates with subconsultants and delegates and reviews the work of Environmental Planners and Environmental Analysts.
  • Coordinates directly with clients to relay project findings, solve problems, coordinate meetings, and review mitigation.
  • When client requests are out of scope, prepares or reviews additional services with business leadership. Actively manages scope creep.
  • Works with minimal supervision from a Senior Project Manager or Principal. Raises major schedule, budget, public, agency, or client issues early and includes senior staff in review of major deliverables and key meetings.
• Business Development
  • Seeks additional work opportunities with existing clients.
  • Writes proposal sections and supports Senior Managers and Principals on larger pursuits.
  • At the Project Manager level, works toward an annual sales target of approximately $150,000 in internal revenue, typically through follow-on work with existing clients.
• Leadership / Management
  • Mentors and trains Environmental Analysts.
  • Provides consistent feedback to project team members, including technical experts and subconsultants.
  • Provides a short annual training to staff on a technical topic or regulation.
  • Encourages a people first approach and entrepreneurial initiative in all staff. Possesses a desire for lifelong learning and participates in formal mentorship programs.
• Financial Acumen
  • Monitors and manages labor expenses and project budgets.
  • Creates labor forecasts and budgets as requested; verifies budgets and adjusts as needed.
  • Meets billability goals (approximately 80%).
• Client Service
  • Builds relationship capital with clients through project work and networking events.
  • Communicates effectively with clients and agency personnel and is comfortable having difficult discussions.
  • Defines solutions to client problems, including cost and timeframe, with support from senior staff.
  • Works closely with senior staff members to cross market and integrate services for existing clients.

Qualifications

• 4–10 years of experience in environmental planning, including CEQA and/or NEPA documentation.
• Strong understanding of NEPA, environmental regulatory processes, technical topics, and common case law.
• Experience preparing or managing CEs, EAs, sections of EISs, and permit applications.
• Bachelor's degree in Environmental Planning, Environmental Studies, Biology, Hydrology, Geology, Natural Resources, or a related discipline; Master's degree a plus.
• Experience managing budgets, schedules, and subconsultants, or serving as Deputy Project Manager.
• Excellent written and verbal communication and strong organizational skills.
• Experience with renewables, utilities, infrastructure, or municipalities preferred.

Benefits

• Salary range of $85,000 - $100,000, with opportunities for bonuses and 401(k) contributions.
• Ongoing training, conference opportunities, and pathways to leadership and ownership roles.
• Hybrid work options and flexible remote work opportunities in approved states.
• We are an equal opportunity employer that fosters a diverse and supportive work environment.
• Opportunities to provide clients with services from all of Spheros Environmental practice areas.

Company Description

Spheros Environmental is an equal-opportunity employer.