Environmental Planner Jobs in Wheat Ridge, CO (NOW HIRING)

The Opportunity:

Tetra Tech is adding an Environmental Planner to join our growing Rockies Region Energy Practice. This position supports the siting, permitting, and environmental planning of renewable energy, transmission, energy storage, and other infrastructure projects throughout the Rockies Region (Colorado, Wyoming and adjacent states). With decades of national experience, Tetra Tech provides innovative environmental consulting services and a strong understanding of federal, state, and local regulatory requirements.

This role offers an excellent opportunity to develop technical expertise while working alongside experienced environmental planners, biologists, engineers, and permitting specialists on complex energy projects. We are a collaborative, supportive, and entrepreneurial team that encourages professional growth and provides opportunities to build a rewarding consulting career.

Location: Colorado (Remote/hybrid; Affiliated with Denver Office)

Why Tetra Tech:

At Tetra Tech, we are Leading with Science to solve the world's most complex challenges.  Our industry-leading experts in engineering and consulting are committed to driving positive change in communities around the world.  For over 50 years, we have been at the forefront of innovation and sustainability.  Today we stand as a market leader, offering cutting-edge solutions in water, environment, energy, and international development.  Our work has improved more than 625 million lives around the world.

Your Impact:

Join Tetra Tech to make a real difference.  Our work leverages cutting-edge technologies, advanced analytics, and the expertise of world-class scientists and engineers to create meaningful change around the world. Discover your full potential - join us to advance your career while leaving a lasting legacy.

Essential Job Functions:

Environmental Planning & Permitting

• Support Project Managers and senior technical staff in energy facility siting, routing, permitting, environmental planning, and project development
• Assist in preparing federal, state, and local environmental permit applications, including conditional use permits, land use permits, right-of-way permits, and other jurisdictional approvals
• Support the preparation of applications for state Public Utility Commissions (PUCs), Public Service Commissions (PSCs), route permits, corridor permits, solar siting certificates, and similar regulatory approvals
• Assist in preparing National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) documentation, including Categorical Exclusions (CEs), Environmental Assessments (EAs), and Environmental Impact Statements (EISs)
• Conduct regulatory research and evaluate permitting requirements for project development

Project Support

• Coordinate with multidisciplinary teams, including biologists, wetland scientists, engineers, archaeologists, and cultural resource specialists
• Assist in preparing technical reports, environmental studies, permit applications, and supporting documentation
• Participate in environmental field surveys and resource assessments as needed
• Support agency coordination, public outreach activities, and stakeholder engagement
• Attend project meetings, agency meetings, and public hearings as required

Professional Development

• Develop an understanding of federal, state, and local environmental regulations affecting energy and infrastructure projects
• Build relationships with regulatory agencies and project stakeholders
• Support proposal preparation, project planning, and business development efforts

Professional Standards

• Conduct activities in accordance with company procedures, legislation, and industry standards.
• Pursue continuous professional development and maintain technical expertise in GIS technologies and applications.
• Work safely at all times and report health and safety concerns.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Environmental Planning, Environmental Science, Engineering, Geography, Natural Resources, or a related field, or equivalent experience
• 3-10 years of environmental consulting, environmental planning, permitting, or related experience
• Familiarity with environmental permitting and regulatory processes
• Knowledge of the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and environmental review processes is preferred
• Experience or coursework related to renewable energy, transmission, utility, or infrastructure projects is desirable
• Strong analytical, research, and problem-solving skills
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Strong organizational skills with attention to detail
• Ability to manage multiple assignments in a fast-paced environment
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite
• Must possess a valid driver's license with a clean driving record without restrictions.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with regulatory agencies in Colorado and/or Wyoming
• Experience supporting renewable energy, transmission, energy storage, natural gas, or infrastructure projects
• Experience preparing local land use permit applications and understanding compliance with local land use regulations
• Experience with GIS or environmental planning software
• Preference for candidates located in the Denver, Colorado area

Work Environment/Travel:

• This position supports projects throughout the Rockies Region and may be based remotely, in a hybrid arrangement, or from a Tetra Tech office depending on the selected candidate's location.
• Travel may be required for fieldwork, agency meetings, client meetings, public outreach events, and project support

Life at Tetra Tech:

The perks of working at Tetra Tech include:

• Comprehensive and market-competitive benefits.  https://www.tetratech.com/careers/life-at-tetra-tech/
• Merit-based financial rewards.
• Flexibility and company-wide commitment to work/life balance.
• Collaborative team atmosphere that values the contributions of all employees.
• Learning and development opportunities for ongoing professional growth. 

A pre-employment drug screen in compliance with federal regulations is required, along with a physical if needed.

Compensation:

Pay commensurate with experience.

Pay Range: $70,000-$120,000 annually

Pay Range - There are multiple factors that are considered in determining final pay for a position, including, but not limited to, relevant work experience and demonstrated work experience in the above role; skills, certifications, and competencies that align to the specified role; geographic location; and education, as well as contract provisions regarding labor categories that are specific to the position.

At Tetra Tech, health and safety play a vital role in our success. Tetra Tech's employees work together to comply with all applicable health & safety practices and protocols, including public health orders and regulations that are mandated by local, state, provincial, federal, international authorities, and clients.