Lead Environmental Specialist / Planner (QSD/QSP), Insignia Environmental

Position Overview

Salary: $70,000 to $95,000 per year

Education Required: BS or higher in hydrology, earth sciences, environmental science, environmental planning, or related field

Experience Required: At least 5 years in environmental consulting with project management and field inspection experience

Description

Insignia Environmental is hiring a Lead Environmental Specialist and Planner with QSD/QSP certifications to support projects across Northern and Southern California, with a base rate of $70,000 to $95,000 per year as a full-time hybrid role.

Insignia Environmental is a collaborative, fast-growing environmental consulting firm focused on the unique needs of energy projects across renewables, electricity, and gas. The team goes beyond traditional environmental review and permitting to leverage innovative concepts and technology to deliver results for clients.

This role centers on Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) development, regular field inspections including pre-, during-, and post-rain assessments, and water-quality sampling during storm events. Applicants must be based in California; reporting locations are Encinitas or Menlo Park, with remote support possible for candidates outside reasonable commuting distance. Regular travel for site visits is required, with occasional overnight stays.

Responsibilities

• Prepare SWPPPs under the State Water Resources Control Board’s General Construction Permit Order 2022-0057-DWQ, including site best management practices maps.
• Conduct regular SWPPP inspections including pre-, during-, and post-rain event assessments.
• Perform water-quality sampling during storm events.
• Coordinate with project personnel, environmental inspectors, and hazardous materials specialists to ensure compliance with water-quality mitigation measures.
• Manage SWPPP documentation, inspection reports, project changes, equipment logs, and spill logs.
• Develop permitting assessments, prepare permit applications, and support compliance management during project construction.
• Assist with environmental impact analyses under CEQA and NEPA, including planning documents, environmental review documents, and resource agency permits such as Clean Water Act Section 404/401 and Lake and Streambed Alteration Agreements.
• Complete environmental deliverables in accordance with approved budgets and schedules.
• Participate in internal and client meetings related to project progress and milestones.
• Collaborate with peers and provide clients with technical advice on environmental compliance.
• Provide technical review and quality control of environmental assessment documents, permit application packages, technical studies, and related client deliverables.

Requirements

• BS degree or higher in hydrology, earth sciences, environmental science, environmental planning, or related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of environmental consulting experience with project management support and field inspection roles.
• Must hold QSD and QSP certifications.
• Working knowledge of regulations including CEQA/NEPA, the Clean Water Act, and the Endangered Species Act.
• Previous experience participating in project management including client interaction, technical review of deliverables, schedule, and budget controls.
• Demonstrated ability to complete projects on time and within budget.
• Excellent communication and organizational skills; confidence dealing with clients, regulators, and team members.
• Ability to exercise informed and independent decision-making.
• Excellent writing and technical editing skills; advanced experience in Microsoft Office.
• Valid driver’s license and good driving record.
• Ability to travel as needed for field inspections and project meetings.
• Ability to perform physical tasks including walking and hiking in varying terrain and working in inclement weather.
• Ability to lift up to 25 pounds.
• California-based residency required.

Preferred Qualifications

• Certified Professional in Erosion and Sediment Control.
• Professional Engineer.
• Professional Geologist.

Additional Notes

• Full-time, hybrid role with regular travel for site visits and field inspections; occasional overnight stays.
• Remote work supported for technical and project management tasks when not in the field.
• Benefits include medical, dental, vision, life, disability, paid time off, leaves of absence, voluntary benefits, employee assistance program, retirement savings plan, and bonuses.
• Insignia is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
• Compensation depends on individual education, qualifications, experience, and location.

How to Apply

Email a resume and brief cover letter or cover email to jobs@insigniaenv.com. Include the phrase “Lead Environmental Specialist” in the subject line.

Applicants should refrain from calling the office directly regarding this position. Insignia may request background information from a consumer reporting agency for lawful employment purposes.