Principal Environmental Engineer / Geologist

Location: Southern California (Hybrid)

Employment Type: Full‑Time

Experience Level: Senior / Principal

About the Role

We are seeking a seasoned Principal Environmental Engineer or Geologist to join a well‑established environmental consulting practice serving public and private sector clients across California and the western United States. This Senior leadership position is ideal for a technically strong professional who thrives in client-facing roles, delivers high‑quality work, and helps guide the strategic growth of environmental services. The successful candidate will play a key role in project delivery, client relationship management, regulatory strategy, and mentorship of technical staff.

Key ResponsibilitiesServe as Principal‑in‑Charge or Project Manager on complex environmental projectsLead and oversee Phase I and Phase II ESAs, soil and groundwater investigations, remedial investigations, and corrective action programsPrepare, review, and approve technical reports, work plans, and regulatory submittalsInteract with regulatory agencies at the local, state, and federal levelsMaintain and grow relationships with clients, including developers, municipalities, attorneys, lenders, and industrial clientsSupport proposal development, project scoping, budgeting, and schedulingProvide mentorship and technical guidance to engineers, geologists, and junior staffContribute to service line and business growth initiativesRequired QualificationsBachelor’s degree in Environmental Engineering, Geology, Hydrogeology, or a related field (Master’s preferred)Professional Engineer (PE) and/or Professional Geologist (PG) license in California (required)12–20+ years of progressive experience in environmental consultingStrong working knowledge of:CERCLA and California environmental regulationsSite assessment and remediation practicesVapor intrusion, soil and groundwater remediation technologiesProven experience managing clients, teams, and complex projectsExcellent written, verbal, and organizational skillsPreferred ExperienceBrownfields redevelopment and due diligence supportExperience with regulatory agencies such as DTSC and RWQCBBusiness development or client account leadershipMulti-site or portfolio project managementWhat We OfferCompetitive salary and performance-based incentivesLeadership role with autonomy and influenceCollaborative, technically respected team environmentFlexible hybrid work arrangementComprehensive benefits package including health insurance, PTO, and retirement planWhy Join?

This is an opportunity to step into a high‑impact leadership role within a respected environmental consulting practice that values technical excellence, professional integrity, and long‑term client relationships. You’ll work on meaningful projects while shaping the future direction of the firm.

Job Type & Location

This is a Permanent position based out of Irvine, CA.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $150000.00 - $200000.00/yr.

Core Employee BenefitsInsurance & Wellness: Typical packages in this industry and region include comprehensive medical, pharmacy, dental, vision, and life insurance.Disability Coverage: Long-term disability insurance is often part of the standard offering.Paid Time Off (PTO): Employees are provided with a paid time off plan for vacations and personal needs.Professional Development: The company emphasizes staff growth through initiatives like the ASCE Mentorship Program, which supports engineers in their career progression.Retirement Planning: While specific match details are not public for the environmental division, standard industry packages typically include a retirement savings plan (such as a 401(k)). Workplace & AmenitiesProfessional Culture: The firm prioritizes a respectful and mutually supportive culture that balances professional commitments with personal life.Office Accessibility: Facilities include wheelchair-accessible entrances and parking lots.On-site Parking: Employees have access to dedicated on-site parking at their locations.

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Irvine,CA.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Feb 13, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.