Job Type

Full-time

Description

Step into a leadership role where strategy, influence, and environmental impact intersect. As a Principal Planner, you'll shape the future of environmental planning across Northern California while helping grow a respected, employee-owned consulting firm. This Principal Planner role is ideal for a seasoned leader ready to drive business development, mentor high-performing teams, and deliver complex CEQA/NEPA projects with excellence.

A Day in the Life

A typical day as a Principal Planner includes leading high-visibility CEQA/NEPA projects, connecting with key clients and agencies, mentoring planners and specialists, and collaborating across HELIX disciplines. You'll represent HELIX in meetings, interviews, and industry events while playing a strategic role in expanding our Northern California Environmental Planning Group.

What You'll Do

As a Principal Planner, you will:
• Lead corporate and regional business development initiatives
• Build and strengthen long-term client and agency relationships
• Identify and pursue new contract opportunities and preferred clients
• Manage large, complex CEQA/NEPA compliance projects and on-call contracts
• Ensure projects are delivered on time, on budget, and to HELIX standards
• Prepare proposals and participate in interviews to win new work
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams across HELIX offices
• Represent HELIX at public meetings, hearings, and professional events
• Mentor, recruit, and develop environmental planning staff

Salary will be based on qualifications and/or experience, with a robust benefits package. Expected starting pay range of $145,000 to $195,000.

Ready to take the next step in your career as a Principal Planner? Apply today and help lead impactful environmental solutions with HELIX.

PM21

Requirements

Minimum Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in environmental studies, environmental science, environmental engineering, public planning, or related field
• 10+ years managing CEQA/NEPA programs, including 5+ years as a CEQA/NEPA consultant
• Proven business development experience with active Northern/Central California client relationships
• Strong writing, communication, and presentation skills
• Experience managing large, multidisciplinary projects
• Ability to work from a HELIX office in Folsom or Roseville at least two days per week

Preferred Requirements

• Master's degree or higher in a related field
• AICP or Certified Environmental Planner certification
• Experience managing direct reports

Salary Description

Range of $145,000 to $195,000