Environmental engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Environmental Principal

Chicago Metro Area

Are you driven to grow, lead, and make a meaningful impact? At Apex, we're building more than a consulting and engineering firmwe're creating a place where your career accelerates, your contributions matter, and your potential is fully realized. We believe your growth is our growth, which is why we invest in your development at every stage of your career. Here, you'll work on projects that shape communities, protect the environment, and create lasting impact, all while being empowered with the autonomy and flexibility to do your best work. Fueled by high quality delivery, exceptional client retention, and strategic acquisitions, Apex Companies continues to rank among the fastest-growing firms in the AEC industry, recently recognized by the Zweig Group for our industry-leading growth. Our success is grounded in strong leadership, a collaborative culture, and a shared commitment to delivering exceptional outcomes. As we continue to grow, we're focused on building a team of high-performing professionals who are ready to lead, collaborate, and push what's possible. At Apex, you don't just join a company, you help shape what comes next.

Apex Companies is a national leader in water resources, environmental services, engineering, health & safety, and ESG consulting. With a strong presence across the Central, we deliver innovative, practical, and sustainable solutions to clients across a wide range of industries. We are seeking a dynamic, growth-focused leader to serve as an Environmental Principal. The role is a remote/hybrid or in office position within the Chicago metropolitan market.

The Role:

We are seeking a technically strong seller-doer with a growth mindset. You will serve as a senior technical advisor and thought leader, translating complex environmental challenges into high-value solutions for clients. This role is centered on market development, client engagement, and technical leadership, with a core emphasis on expanding Apex's environmental consulting services in the Central Region.

Key Responsibilities:

• Drive and achieve strategic growth of environmental services in your designated market in collaboration with Commercial and Service Line Leadership.
• Proactively identify and pursue new business opportunities, lead sales meetings, and support cross-selling of Apex's complementary services.
• Maintain and expand long-term client relationships, acting as a trusted advisor
• Provide subject matter expertise (SME), lead QA/QC efforts, and mentor project teams to promote technical excellence and high performance.
• Manage project performance with a focus on quality, innovation, and client satisfaction.
• Travel to client locations as needed for meetings and business development.

What We Are Looking For:

• 15+ years of environmental consulting or industry experience with progressive responsibility and leadership.
• 7+ years of demonstrated success in business development with new and existing clients.
• Established client relationships and an active network within the region or with national clients.
• Demonstrated success in developing markets, securing key clients, and achieving financial growth targets.
• Strong technical background in one or more of the core disciplines: Environmental Compliance, Site Investigation/Remediation, Site Development Permitting, EHS, or Due Diligence.
• Deep understanding of your region's regulatory and business environment.
• Exceptional communication, negotiation, and presentation skills for engaging with senior-level clients, regulators, and stakeholders.

Why Join Apex?

Join Apex, a nationally recognized environmental consulting firm known for its technical excellence, innovation, and award-winning services.

• An opportunity to be a pivotal leader in a strategic growth area for the firm.
• Access a national platform offering integrated water, environmental, health & safety, and infrastructure services.
• Thrive in a collaborative culture centered on integrity, professional growth, and mentorship.
• 2,000+ employee national firm with 70+ locations across the US.
• Company-subsidized medical and dental.
• Company-paid life, short, and long-term disability.
• 401k match, tuition assistance, and more.
• Performance-based bonuses or other incentives.

Salary: $150,000$200,000+ annually (DOE)

Employment Type: Full-time with comprehensive benefits and performance-based incentives