Permitting Lead

Geronimo Power, LLC•Bloomington, MN

2d•$100,000 - $155,000•Remote

About The Position

National Grid Renewables is seeking a Permitting Manager to oversee department staff and permitting strategy/execution for utility-scale solar and wind projects. The Permitting Manager will also prepare/obtain and ensure compliance with land use, environmental, and construction related permits. This role will cover all stages of environmental planning and analysis for development projects, ranging from initial greenfield site diligence through environmental surveys and acquisition of any required federal, state, or local permits. The Permitting Manager will report to the Director of Permitting.

Requirements

B.A., B.S., or higher in environmental studies or closely related field
5-8 years of environmental permitting experience and ability to showcase a successful record of obtaining approvals through the National Environmental Policy Act ,U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, State Historic Preservation Offices, and state Public Utility Commissions in numerous jurisdictions
Knowledgeable of relevant state and federal permitting and wildlife regulations including but not limited to Migratory Bird Treaty Act, Endangered Species Act, Clean Water Act, and Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act
Experience providing written and live testimony in public hearings
Experience with state and local government processes, including zoning
Ability to multi-task and work well under pressure to meet deadlines
Excellent public speaking and presentation skills
Excellent written and verbal communication skills
Ability to work in a fast-paced, entrepreneurial environment in both team and individual settings
Must be flexible and detail-oriented with excellent problem-solving skills
Strong project management experience and skills
Up to 20% travel required
Experience with the following software: Microsoft programs, ESRI ArcMap, Google Earth Pro

Nice To Haves

Renewable energy development experience
Management and Leadership experience
Strong interpersonal skills, including the ability to establish effective working relationships and articulate issues and subject matter to process owners while being a team player
Strong ability to review and analyze financial and technical data
Strong writing skills
Achievement driven
Energetic
Able to manage multiple tasks and projects
Loyal and committed to the organization
Pursuit of personal growth
Advanced degree

Responsibilities

Manage/oversee staff and/or permitting strategy/execution for designated development region
Independently Lead land-use and environmental permitting processes, including: Researching and understanding local, state and federal laws, Manage/prepare permit applications, Representing National Grid Renewables at stakeholder meetings and hearings through presentations and testimony, Managing local law/code amendment processes
Lead agency consultations and develop relationships and educate regulators/stakeholders as needed throughout permitting process
Develop strategies to mitigate permitting risks that align with regulatory requirements and commercial needs
Coordinate and facilitate internal risk assessments for prospective M&A opportunities
Lead and manage environmental review and permitting processes including wetland, endangered species, archaeological/cultural, and engineering review
Select and manage consultants providing technical support
Assist with development of environmental study scopes, obtain proposals, oversee consultants, and review deliverables
Track and schedule permit tasks and provide regular updates to management and project team
Prepare and manage project budgets
Conduct site review of greenfield sites to inform project planning
Assist with development and implementation of community outreach strategies
Provide support through project financing and construction to ensure permit compliance
Develop and support project planning initiatives
Analyze regulatory policy and seek participation in industry working groups related to potential or proposed policy changes/initiatives
Mentor and provide strategy guidance to junior staff