We build careers grounded in purpose, responsibility and real-world impact.
“For Planet and Progress” is our north star that guides everything we do. We believe environmental responsibility and human progress are interconnected, interwoven and international. Our scientists, engineers, field teams, consultants and professionals collaborate across disciplines and geographies, guiding industries and governments, ensuring that communities and environments thrive.
When you join us, you’re not just forging a career, you’re joining a movement. A movement for better thinking, smarter solutions and lasting impact.
Together, we will advance our way of life and protect the integrity of our environment every step of the way.
A Day in the Life
Our Principal Scientist position can be performed remotely; however, the ideal candidate will be based in Southern California and bring strong California-specific regulatory and environmental expertise.
The salary for this role ranges from $150,000 – $180,000, in addition to an annual bonus, commensurate with experience, skills, and geographic location
To thrive in this role, you’ll be comfortable taking ownership of the following responsibilities:
Leading complex environmental compliance projects from planning strategy through execution.
Working closely with clients and technical expert team and planners to solve problems and provide regulatory insight and risk-based guidance.
Collaborating with internal subject matter experts (biologists, archaeologists, GIS specialists, planners, regulatory specialists, and engineers) and external technical partners, protection agencies, and state or federal lead agencies.
Overseeing proposals and business development activities, including leading proposals, cost estimating, and interview execution.
QA/QC oversight of high-volume programs/projects.
Project staffing, budget and schedule management
Mentoring and developing staff, fostering technical excellence and professional growth.
Supporting business development and strategic growth initiatives alongside other Principals.
Maintaining compliance with all safety, confidentiality, and company policies.
Staying current on industry trends, regulations, and best practices through continuous professional development.
Working collaboratively with the core Principal team and working independently.
Perform other duties as assigned.
Your Expertise and Skills
The Principal Scientist is a recognized technical authority and strategic leader, responsible for regulatory certainty, project success, and long-term client trust. These requirements reflect the knowledge, skills and abilities that help you do your best work here.
Bachelor’s degree in biology, urban planning, environmental science, or related field.
Master’s degree preferred but not required.
Minimum of 15 years of relevant professional experience (12 years with a Master’s degree).
Experience with utilities and/or renewable energy projects strongly preferred.
Experience serving as senior regulatory liaison with permitting agencies preferred.
Knowledge of current environmental compliance and city/state development regulations.
Strong familiarity with California natural resources and impact analyses/assessments.
Experience leading the regulatory permitting process, including experience working with the USACE, USFWS, BLM, USFS, CDFW, and RWQCB.
Proven ability to operate independently while leading multidisciplinary technical teams.
Experience as a people manager providing mentorship to elevate the skillsets of staff and provide career growth opportunities.
Proven success leading proposals and competitive pursuits.
Excellent written communication skills, ability to write and oversee complex technical documents, memorandum, or reports.
Experience leading projects/programs and working in dynamic, collaborative environments that require flexibility in assuming new roles and changing project directions.
Advanced proficiency with Microsoft Office; working knowledge of tools such as ArcGIS and AutoCAD preferred.
Willingness and ability to travel locally as needed.
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to providing access and reasonable accommodation in our employment for individuals with disabilities.
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Montrose Environmental was one of the first to see environmental responsibility as not just an imperative but as a strategic asset. And we’re well ahead of the curve in applying the latest technologies in practical ways to solve difficult environmental challenges.
How? By building a leadership team with exceptional depth of experience and breadth of expertise. By bringing together a wealth of local knowledge that allows us to address homegrown issues across multiple locations. By removing operational roadblocks that stand in the way of streamlined, hassle-free, nation-spanning implementation. And by investing in assets and technologies that will keep us out in front of emerging environmental concerns for years to come.
In short, we approach our job the same way our clients approach theirs: With a sense of urgency, a commitment to adding value, and a stubborn refusal to settle for second-best. All to help the people we partner with identify and seize opportunity.
