Planning Siting Specialist Assc- Spec

American Electric Power•New Albany, OH

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The role is responsible for siting activities for multi-million-dollar electric transmission line and substation projects. Projects can range from small scale to hundreds of miles in length, traversing multiple states. A successful candidate will understand the full range of issues related to the successful siting and routing of a transmission project and will be accountable for making sound recommendations and decisions. Areas of expertise include environmental (cultural, natural and visual resource assessment), utility corridor siting (utility regulatory requirements, stakeholder interaction, and permitting requirements) and project management. Siting specialist will work in designated regions and states, based on location. Planning Siting Specialist- Planning Siting Specialist Sr. Ensure that transmission siting activities are performed in accordance with the policies, practices and standards of the Company and regulations and procedures as required by federal, state or local regulatory agencies. Organize the siting studies and proposed route selection activities to meet in-service dates and ensure compliance. Oversee the oversight of outsourcing related to siting and regulatory approvals of transmission lines and substations. Work interdependently with a multidisciplinary project team to identify buildable, cost-effective routes and facilities which minimize environmental impacts. Liaison with other key team members. Assist in and prepare environmental assessments and siting studies (written documentation) for transmission facility projects. Coordinate regulatory and local zoning applications (writing, exhibits, testimony, interrogatories, schedule, etc.) Develop and monitor schedules to complete siting tasks and manage identified risks and cost estimates. Participate in stakeholder meetings and public open houses.

Requirements

Proficiency with ESRI ArcGIS, Adobe Creative Suite, Microsoft Office computer applications.
Excellent written, organizational, presentation, oral communication, and time management skills.
Ability to handle multiple projects and assignments.
Valid driver's license.
Ability to rent a vehicle.
Ability to drive 3 - 6 hours at time to attend site visits, meet with landowners, or participate in open houses and stakeholder meetings.
Knowledge, understanding, and adherence to applicable safety procedures.
Ability to hike or walk one to three miles on occasion.
Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Environmental Science, Land Use Planning, Urban Planning, Landscape Architecture, or related field.
Two – three (2-3) years total industry related experience and/or education (for Planning Siting Specialist).
5 - 8 years industry related experience and/or education (for Planning Siting Specialist Sr).

Nice To Haves

Proficiency with ESRI ArcGIS, Adobe Creative Suite, Microsoft Office computer applications is desired.
At least two years of direct siting experience preferred (for Planning Siting Specialist Sr).

Responsibilities

Ensure that transmission siting activities are performed in accordance with the policies, practices and standards of the Company and regulations and procedures as required by federal, state or local regulatory agencies.
Organize the siting studies and proposed route selection activities to meet in-service dates and ensure compliance.
Oversee the oversight of outsourcing related to siting and regulatory approvals of transmission lines and substations.
Work interdependently with a multidisciplinary project team to identify buildable, cost-effective routes and facilities which minimize environmental impacts.
Liaison with other key team members.
Assist in and prepare environmental assessments and siting studies (written documentation) for transmission facility projects.
Coordinate regulatory and local zoning applications (writing, exhibits, testimony, interrogatories, schedule, etc.)
Develop and monitor schedules to complete siting tasks and manage identified risks and cost estimates.
Participate in stakeholder meetings and public open houses.