Environmental Planning/Siting (GIS) Specialist

WSP•Lexington, OH

1d•Onsite

About The Position

WSP is seeking an Environmental Planning/Siting (GIS) Specialist in Cincinnati, Ohio, to provide technical planning support for site and linear utility projects in the Midwest. The role involves capturing, modeling, and analyzing study-area information, geographical resources, and spatial and tabular data to inform project plans. Under general supervision, the specialist may support siting and routing studies, site visits and public open houses, ecological field mapping and data processing, and the preparation of maps for environmental plans and permits. The role requires accurate, concise documentation and work that meets or exceeds applicable industry quality standards. The specialist plans, executes, and leads siting and routing studies for energy projects in Ohio and surrounding states. Work includes gathering background data, preparing maps, documenting findings for clients and agencies, participating in meetings and public open houses, conducting windshield surveys, and preparing defensible reports that explain the selection of a site or route. The role also coordinates with governmental agencies, clients, and project team members; supports state filing requirements and public utility applications; and uses ArcGIS to analyze and manage data for siting, ecological, and environmental permitting projects. Deliverables may include maps, tables, charts, reports, and illustrations. Some travel is required for project-related site visits and public open houses. Schedules may extend beyond the typical workweek to meet project-specific requirements.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Urban Planning, Environmental Planning, or a related field, or equivalent experience.
At least 3 years of experience conducting siting and routing studies, preferably in Ohio and surrounding states.
At least 3 years of experience with ESRI’s ArcGIS platform.
Familiarity with siting and routing studies and analyses, and preparation of associated reports.
Excellent technical writing skills and clear communication.
Ability to work as part of multidisciplinary teams and attention to detail.
Commitment to completing high-quality work on time, including the ability to work independently when needed.
Willingness to travel for site visits and attend public open house meetings.
Motivation, a positive attitude, and willingness to learn and take on responsibility.
Track record of upholding workplace safety and ability to comply with WSP health, safety, drug/alcohol, and harassment policies.
Ability to work schedules that meet project-specific requirements and may extend beyond the typical workweek.

Nice To Haves

5 years of experience conducting siting and routing studies, preferably in Ohio and surrounding states.
5 years of experience with ESRI’s ArcGIS platform.
Experience preparing applications for submittal to the Ohio Power Siting Board (OPSB), Kentucky Public Utilities Commission (PUC), and other states.
Previous consulting experience.
Experience with both ArcMap and ArcGIS Pro.
Relationships with and understanding of utility company requirements in Ohio and surrounding states.

Responsibilities

Plan, execute, and lead siting and routing studies for energy industry projects in Ohio and surrounding states.
Gather background data for project areas and prepare siting and routing maps.
Participate in meetings and document findings for clients and/or agencies.
Participate in public open house meetings and conduct windshield surveys of proposed sites and/or routes.
Document the siting process in defensible reports explaining why a site or route was selected.
Liaise with governmental agencies, clients, and team members.
Provide guidance on state filing requirements and write components of public utility applications.
Use ArcGIS to support siting, ecological, and environmental permitting projects through data analysis and management.
Prepare data visualizations and project deliverables, including maps, tables, charts, reports, and illustrations.
Support site visits, ecological field mapping, and processing data for ecological studies.