Permitting Specialist - Renewable Energy - National Grid Renewables

National Grid Renewables is a full-service renewable energy company headquartered in Minneapolis, Minnesota. National Grid Renewables has developed over 2,400 megawatts of wind and solar projects that are either operational or currently under construction throughout the United States. National Grid Renewables has a multi-gigawatt development pipeline of wind and solar projects in various stages of development throughout the United States. National Grid Renewables provides custom solutions for utilities and corporations looking to harness renewable energy for business growth. With deep roots in agriculture, National Grid Renewables prides itself on developing renewable energy projects that are farmer-friendly, community-driven, and beneficial for rural communities.

Position Description

National Grid Renewables is seeking a Permitting Specialist to prepare/obtain and ensure compliance with land use, environmental, and construction related permits for utility-scale solar and wind projects. 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.

Duties

• 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 and manage environmental review and permitting processes including wetland, endangered species, and archaeological/cultural
• Obtain proposals for environmental surveys and manage consultants providing technical support
• Assist with development of environmental study scopes, obtain proposals and review deliverables.
• Track and schedule permit tasks and provide regular updates to manager and project team
• Prepare and manage project budgets
• Conduct site review of greenfield sites to inform project planning
• Support project mapping and planning 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

Experience/Qualifications

• B.A., B.S., in environmental studies or closely related field
• 3-5 years of environmental permitting experience
• Familiarity with the National Environmental Policy Act, permitting through the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, State Historic Preservation Offices, and state Public Utility Commissions
• Experience/familiarity with state and local government processes, including zoning
• Experience performing and/or reviewing wetland delineation reports, threatened and endangered species surveys, cultural resource surveys, Phase 1 Environmental Site Assessments, and other environmental surveys
• 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
• Up to 20% travel required
• Experience with the following software:
• Microsoft programs
• ESRI ArcMap
• Google Earth Pro

Preference may be given to candidates with the following:

• Renewable energy development 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

Skills/Attributes:

• 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

National Grid Renewables believe fostering diversity, equity and inclusion is everyone’s responsibility. Open, honest and respectful ways of working, learning and communicating are the cornerstones of a successful business, and leveraging inclusion and diversity lead to better business results. At National Grid Renewables, we’re focused on creating a work environment where our people feel respected and included, and therefore empowered to be themselves.