GFT is seeking an experienced Principal Environmental Planner/NEPA Lead. This hybrid position may be located in Texas, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, New York, New Jersey, or South Florida.

The successful candidate would join our multi-disciplinary team to engage with our expanding pool of public and private sector clients, manage complex contracts and task orders for large environmental planning programs, and participate in a significant way to implement a growth strategy to increase market share and revenues.

What you’ll be challenged to do

As a Principal Environmental Planner/NEPA Lead, you will primarily focus on leading environmental clearance and NEPA compliance work on projects, and specifically technical leadership and oversight on complex transportation, transit and other infrastructure projects. Depending on the project assignment, the candidate will serve as a project manager, deputy project manager, task manager, or environmental lead. Technical responsibilities of this position include providing oversight, guidance and management of NEPA and permitting efforts, coordination with engineering design teams during both pursuit and project phases, and interacting with agencies and the public.  The selected candidate will also function as a mentor to staff, manage client relationships, and oversee the financial health of projects in an project management capacity.  In addition, the Principal NEPA Planner is a senior leadership role responsible for contributing to business development, and assisting with executing growth strategy for NEPA related services. This role entails leadership for market positioning, client engagement, and capture strategy.

What you’ll be challenged to do:

• Lead environmental planning and compliance work and support the development of environmental documents and studies in compliance with NEPA, and other state and federal environmental regulations.
• Be an effective client liaison on NEPA projects.
• Prepare effective technical and cost proposals and take an active role in the development of new business through internal cross selling and through developing and expanding client relationships that generate new business.
• Perform project management role on NEPA/environmental planning projects by monitoring budget, scope and schedule and being accountable for project performance.
• Collaborate with project teams to develop technical work programs designed to provide innovative and progressive project solutions.
• Provide leadership in mentoring personnel, including reviewing their work for accuracy and clarity and providing constructive feedback on project tasks.
• Carry out supervisory responsibilities, including planning, assigning, and directing work; evaluating and coaching team member performance.
• Oversee and manage subcontractor coordination on projects and ensure adherence to quality protocols, and client satisfaction.

What you will bring to our firm: 

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Environmental Science, Engineering, Planning, Biology, Physical Sciences, or related field.
• 20 years of progressive, relevant experience or demonstrated equivalency of experience and/or education in environmental planning, including linear infrastructure, facility siting, permitting, community engagement, and impact assessment (analytical/technical writing) for NEPA or similar requirements.
• Demonstrated ability to apply sound business acumen and strategies to prepare technical proposals and fee estimates on large, complex projects and programs that respond to our clients’ needs.
• Demonstrated leadership, negotiation, and conflict resolution skills.
• Experience with preparing and executing business development strategies and helping to grow revenues and client portfolios.
• Experience managing complex environmental compliance projects or programs, requiring coordination of interdisciplinary teams, management of budget(s), and meeting schedule(s).
• Successfully interface with clients and other teaming partners (e.g., JV partners).
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills as well as interpersonal skills to effectively manage projects and interact with teams of staff, subconsultants, and clients.
• Experience in marketing and business development efforts in pursuit of new business.
• Must be self-motivated, detail-oriented, and able to collaborate within a team environment.
• Professional certification (AICP, PMP, or similar) is preferred but not required.
• Proficient with MS Office Suite.
• Valid US Driver’s License.

The salary range for this role is $140,000 - $190,000; Salary is dependent upon experience and geographic location.

• Hybrid (in-person and remote) work environment.

• Comprehensive benefits package including wellness programs, parental leave, and pet insurance, in addition to medical, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance.

• Tax-deferred 401(k) savings plan.

• Competitive paid-time-off (PTO) accrual.

• Tuition reimbursement for continued education.

• Commitment to professional development, access to internal and external training programs, and support of active participation in professional organizations.

• Incentive compensation for eligible positions.

Location: VariousWorking Hours: 8 AM – 5 PMEmployment Status: Full-time

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"California Applicants"

Applicants in the County of Los Angeles - Qualified applications with arrest or conviction records will be considered for employment in accordance with the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers and the California Fair Chance Act.

Applicants in the State of California - Qualified applications with arrest or conviction records will be considered for employment in accordance with the California Fair Chance Act.

Application deadline 8/1/2026