Environmental Permitting Specialist – Entry Level (Hybrid)

Barr • Duluth, MN

8d • $55,000 - $65,000 • Hybrid

About The Position

Barr is seeking an environmental permitting specialist to join our Duluth office and undertake challenging and fast-paced work on large and complex environmental permitting and compliance projects. Assigned work tasks may include conducting environmental reviews; communicating with regulatory agencies and client contacts; developing and reviewing environmental permit applications; assisting a team of people with environmental review and permitting; coordinating field inspections and supporting field staff; conducting stormwater inspections; and reviewing field reports to verify environmental compliance. The selected candidate will work with other Barr staff, clients, subcontractors, and regulatory staff. Fieldwork opportunities for this position may be year-round. The ideal candidate for this position is a clear and confident communicator who thrives in collaborative and independent work environments. They are adaptable, organized, proactive, eager to learn, and comfortable asking thoughtful questions. They bring a high level of attention to detail and take ownership of assigned tasks. They demonstrate reliability, strong problem-solving skills, and a growth mindset as they build their technical skills and professional judgment. Above all, they value teamwork, quality, and integrity in delivering impactful environmental solutions.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in physical, natural, or environmental science; environmental engineering; or a related degree.
• Minimum GPA of 3.0/4.0.
• Strong computer skills, including word processing and use of spreadsheets. Familiarity with the Microsoft Office Suite.
• Possession of a current, valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record.
• Must be legally authorized to work in the United States without the need for sponsorship by Barr, now or in the future.

Nice To Haves

• 2+ years of professional experience with federal/state environmental regulatory programs or related experience.
• Experience with state and federal environmental regulations, permitting processes, and/or field compliance for utility corridor projects.
• Experience with soil erosion and sedimentation control plans, construction stormwater plans, and site restoration plans.
• AGOL/ArcGIS or database software familiarity.

Responsibilities

• Apply environmental principles and regulatory knowledge to support environmental reviews, develop and review permit applications, and track compliance with applicable federal and state requirements.
• Coordinate and support field inspections and environmental review activities. Assist project teams by organizing permitting efforts, tracking progress, and reviewing field reports to verify compliance and accuracy.
• Evaluate environmental data, site conditions, and regulatory requirements to identify potential permitting or compliance challenges. Contribute to effective, practical solutions that support project goals while maintaining regulatory compliance.
• Clearly communicate with regulatory agencies, clients, and internal team members regarding permitting requirements, application development, and compliance status through written documentation and verbal updates.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary project teams, regulatory staff, clients, and subcontractors to support permitting efforts and align environmental compliance activities with overall project objectives.

Benefits

• Competitive, affordable insurance plans: Medical, dental, vision, life, disability, accidental death insurance, and flexible spending accounts for medical and dependent care
• 401(k) retirement savings plan with company contribution and an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) with company contribution in Barr stock
• Profit distribution: Barr has a "no retained earnings" model and distributes all profit to our employees through our annual bonus distribution plan, ESOP, and dividends to shareholders
• Annual time and expense allowances, mentorship program, and many internal training opportunities
• Paid time off, holidays, overtime for non-exempt/hourly staff, and compensatory time for exempt/salaried staff (time off or pay for extra time worked), paid family leave
• Ergonomic analysis and equipment, Personal Protective Equipment allowance, wellbeing-focused educational opportunities

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level