As an Environmental and Permitting Associate, you will play a key role in ensuring that our solar projects comply with environmental regulations and obtain the necessary permits for successful development and operation. You will work closely with project teams, regulatory agencies, and stakeholders to navigate the permitting process and ensure environmental compliance.
Responsibilities
Collaborate with internal teams, including land acquisition, engineering, and finance.
Select and oversee environmental consultants responsible for conducting desktop studies, field assessments, reports, and project descriptions necessary for securing city, county, and state permits.
Engage with permitting authorities, environmental groups, land conservation organizations, and local communities to ensure timely permit approvals.
Manage the permitting submittal process, tracking and reporting progress.
Inform leadership of key permitting issues, identifying next steps and creating action plans to mitigate schedule, cost, and risk impacts.
Support the preparation of RFO/RFP bids.
Assist with due diligence on new projects, identifying timelines, costs, and potential permitting challenges.
Qualifications
Bachelor's degree in Environmental Science, Environmental Engineering, or a related field.
1-3 years of experience with city, county, or state permitting for ground-mounted commercial solar projects.
Experience in the renewable energy industry is a plus.
Familiarity with environmental regulations and permitting processes specific to solar energy projects.
Proficiency in environmental review processes such as CEQA.
Ability to analyze environmental reports (e.g., Biological Resources Assessment, Cultural Resources Assessment, Hazardous Materials) and determine next steps.
Experience in resolving surface, mineral, gas, and oil rights issues.
Land-related experience, including acquisition, title research, and negotiations for options, leases, or purchases (preferred).
Skill in consolidating and summarizing project status reports.
Experience in tracking project execution and identifying potential risks.
Strong problem-solving skills and proactive approach.
Proficient in relevant software and tools.
High attention to detail with strong multitasking abilities.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
Effective both as part of a team and independently.