Principal Planner at HELIX ENVIRONMENTAL PLANNING, INC.

Sacramento, California, United States -

Full Time

Start Date

Immediate

Expiry Date

22 Jul, 26

Salary

195000.0

Posted On

23 Apr, 26

Experience

10 year(s) or above

Remote Job

Yes

Telecommute

Yes

Sponsor Visa

Skills

CEQA, NEPA, Environmental planning, Business development, Project management, Leadership, Mentoring, Client relationship management, Strategic planning, Public speaking, Technical writing, Multidisciplinary team collaboration, Contract management, Environmental stewardship, Proposal preparation

Industry

Environmental Services

Description

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. Why HELIX? At HELIX Environmental Planning, we’re passionate about smart growth, environmental stewardship, and collaborative problem-solving. As a Principal Planner, you’ll join a mission-driven, employee-owned firm known for technical excellence and a supportive, people-first culture. This Principal Planner position offers a hybrid schedule, with a preference for working from our Folsom or Roseville office at least two days per week - more if you prefer! We value flexibility, trust, and long-term career growth. 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. ________________________________________ HELIX is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and an inclusive work environment. We encourage all qualified applicants to apply regardless of gender, race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), parental status, national origin, disability, age, genetic information (including family medical history), political affiliation, military service or veteran status. These protections extend to all management practices and decisions, including recruitment and hiring, appraisal systems, promotions, training, and career development programs. 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

Responsibilities

The Principal Planner will lead complex CEQA/NEPA projects and drive business development initiatives to expand the firm's presence in Northern California. They are also responsible for mentoring staff, managing client relationships, and representing the company at public meetings and industry events.