Environmental Scientist/Specialist - Land Use Permitting and Compliance
About the position This Environmental Scientist/Specialist position provides regulatory analysis and permitting for all electrical transmission & distribution, natural gas, non-hydro generation and service facilities construction and maintenance projects. The Specialist works with project leads to ensure environmental and cultural resource compliance through all stages of projects. Responsibilities • Evaluate non-hydro proposed projects for regulatory and permit applicability including scope, work methods and other related potential environmental impacts. • Provide project lead(s) with permitting recommendations to complete project work in a timely and efficient manner, including other strategic approaches or options when available. • Manages the complete environmental and land-use permitting process through all stages including: Planning, Applicability, Application, Public Notice, Negotiation, Permit Issuance, Implementation and On-site Construction/Compliance Monitoring. • Keeps accurate and complete records of all work. • Selects and manages the proper contractor and/or specialized resources needed to acquire permits in a timely and efficient manner. • Proactively establishes and maintains open communication and strong relationships with the local, state, municipal, and federal agencies. • Proactively establishes and maintains open communication (including training) with internal personnel, regarding environmental and land use permitting, and cultural resource regulations. • Seeks and implements methods to improve the quality and efficiency of permitting processes and other duties. Requirements • Bachelor's Degree from four-year college or university in an applicable field, such as biology, geology, chemistry, fisheries, wildlife, recreation, environmental science, or related field. • Must demonstrate understanding of fundamental concepts, practices and procedures of particular field of experience or specialization. • Comfortable in office and field situations representing the company and interacting with a wide variety of utility staff, agency regulators, tribes, and other stakeholders. • Excellent organizational and communication skills, with proficiency in writing/grammar. • Demonstrated ability to develop and maintain collaborative relationships and to communicate clearly is essential. • Demonstrated planning and organizing skills; ability to anticipate outcomes. • Computer skills proficiency required including standard office software, GIS or other specialized applications. • Valid Driver's License. • Environmental Scientist I: Minimum of one (1) year of professional experience required. • Environmental Scientist II: Minimum of three (3) years of professional experience. • Proficiency in creating clear, concise, and well-structured technical documentation, including reports, manuals, process guides, etc. • Ability to translate complex technical information into easily understandable content for various audiences. Nice-to-haves • Experience preparing regulatory permit applications as well as developing regulatory compliance strategies for a variety of project types. • Fundamental understanding of electric and gas utility work activities; how they are accomplished and their associated compliance risks and obligations. • Background and experience in federal, state and local environmental and land-use regulation and permitting strategies for NEPA, Special Use Permits, SEPA, Army Corp, Wetlands, ESA, Cultural Resources, etc. with existing relationships with regulatory staff in Washington, Idaho, and Oregon. • Advanced technical writing skills and critical thinking. Benefits • Medical, dental, vision, life, and disability coverage. • Retirement benefits. • Incentive plans. • Wellness resources. • Time-off programs. Apply tot his job