Permitting Lead

Permitting Manager

National Grid Renewables, which includes the renewables development company formerly known as Geronimo Energy, is a Leading North American renewable energy company based in Minneapolis, Minnesota, with satellite offices located in the regions where it develops, constructs, and operates renewable energy projects. As a farmer-friendly and community focused company, National Grid Renewables develops projects for corporations and utilities that seek to repower America’s electricity grid by reigniting local economies and reinvesting in a sustainable future. National Grid Renewables is part of the competitive, unregulated Ventures division of National Grid and has a portfolio of solar, wind, and energy storage projects located throughout the United States in various stages of development, construction and operation.

National Grid Renewables develops high value, competitive renewable energy projects. Our focus on communities and farmers means it’s not just about projects, but about the people we work with, both outside and inside our organization. National Grid Renewables Team Members embody our foundational culture of being entrepreneurial, creative, and nimble and take pride in supporting National Grid’s vision to be at the heart of a clean, fair and affordable energy future for all.

SUMMARY OF 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. 

WHAT YOU WILL BE DOING

• 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

WHAT YOU BRING TO THIS ROLE

• 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

Preference may be given to candidates with the following: 

• 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
• 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