Environmental Permitting Principal Project Manager – FERC/Pipelines

At Jacobs, we’re focused on advancing our clients’ environmental stewardship, energy infrastructure modernization, and regulatory compliance. We are seeking a Principal Project Manager to lead environmental permitting and regulatory strategy for FERC-regulated infrastructure projects, including Section 7(b) and 7(c) applications. The ideal candidate will be based in Houston, TX, but we are open to other U.S. locations for the right candidate.

You will lead multidisciplinary teams and manage complex projects across the full lifecycle—from routing and siting through construction compliance. You’ll also play a key role in expanding Jacobs’ environmental planning business by identifying new opportunities, strengthening client relationships, and mentoring junior staff. Your leadership will help position Jacobs as a trusted advisor in the evolving energy and infrastructure sectors.

Your Impact

• Lead environmental permitting efforts for FERC-regulated natural gas projects, including preparation of Section 7(b) and 7(c) filings, prior notice/blanket authorizations, and third-party EA/EIS documents.

• Manage multiple concurrent projects with a focus on quality, efficiency, and client satisfaction.

• Develop and implement permitting strategies in coordination with federal, state, and local agencies (e.g., USACE, USFWS, state wildlife agencies).

• Knowledge and ability to lead permitting related to NEPA, ESA, and CWA

• Complete and lead FEED studies for pipeline infrastructure

• Oversee project scope, schedule, budget, and QA/QC processes.

• Support NEPA documentation and compliance for energy infrastructure projects.

• Represent Jacobs in client meetings, public hearings, and regulatory consultations.

• Drive business development efforts by identifying and securing new project opportunities.

• Mentor junior and mid-level staff, fostering a collaborative and high-performing team environment.

• Contribute to Jacobs’ thought leadership through white papers, conference presentations, and professional seminars.

• Promote a culture of safety, integrity, and innovation across all project activities.

Skills & Competencies

• Strong technical writing and environmental analysis skills, with demonstrated experience authoring environmental reports and permit applications.

• Deep understanding of FERC regulations under the Natural Gas Act and NEPA compliance processes.

• Ability to lead multidisciplinary teams and manage complex project portfolios.

• Effective communicator with strong verbal and written skills, capable of representing Jacobs in client and regulatory settings.

• Strategic thinker with the ability to anticipate client needs and respond to emerging challenges.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and project management tools.

• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced, matrixed organization.

• Commitment to continuous professional development and staying current with regulatory changes and industry trends.

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• Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science, Planning, Biology, or related field.

• Minimum 15 years of experience managing environmental permitting for FERC-regulated natural gas projects.

• Proven expertise in FERC Section 7(b) and 7(c) filings, NEPA documentation, and agency coordination.

• Experience managing project budgets, schedules, scopes, and multidisciplinary teams.

• Valid driver’s license with a clean driving record.

Ideally, you'll also have:

• Graduate degree in Environmental Planning, Natural Resources, or related discipline.

• Professional certifications (e.g., PMP, CEP).

• Experience with energy transition projects (e.g., hydrogen, CCUS, renewables).

• Experience working within the environmental sector of an EPC firm.

• Strong working relationships with regulatory agencies such as USACE, USFWS, and FERC.

• Understanding of FERC regulatory requirements for hydroelectric facilities.

• Strong relationships with global and non-global up-, mid-, and downstream clients

Jacobs is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, creed, color, national origin, ancestry, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, or medical conditions related to pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding), age, medical condition, marital or domestic partner status, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression and transgender status, mental disability or physical disability, genetic information, military or veteran status, citizenship, low-income status or any other status or characteristic protected by applicable law. Learn more about your rights under Federal EEO laws and supplemental language.