Permitting Specialist

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Audubon Companies is hiring a Right of Way Permitting Specialist in Houston to support the Right-of-Way and Environmental teams, managing permit work from application through approval while coordinating with agencies and third parties. The role requires a bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science, Urban Planning, Civil Engineering or related field with 2 to 3 years of experience (3 to 5 preferred) and familiarity with DOT, DEQ, NEPA, and the Clean Water Act, plus strong written and verbal communication, data management, and problem solving. To apply, tailor your resume to show permit lifecycle expertise, cross functional collaboration, data collection, and public participation, quantify outcomes, and demonstrate onsite capability in Houston. No recruiters, please. Equal opportunity employment.

Audubon is currently seeking a Right of Way Permitting Specialist to join our team in our Houston, TX Office.  The Right of Way Permitting Specialist will assist both the Right-of-Way and Environmental business units. The Permitting Specialist is accountable for having a comprehensive understanding of permitting processes in both the non-environmental and environmental sectors for completion of complex and/or large projects. This role involves extensive coordination with various federal, state, and local agencies and independent third parties, reviewing and interpreting permitting regulations and requirements, ensuring compliance with regulations, and managing all aspects of permitting from application preparation to approval.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Prepare and submit applications for permits related to railroad crossings, road crossings, access driveways, and other transportation related permits.
• Coordinate and obtain agreements from non-agency based third parties.
• Coordinate with governmental agencies, third parties, project managers, engineers, contractors, and other stakeholders to facilitate the permitting process until permit approval.
• Identify data needs that would potentially delay the permit process.
• Monitor and track the status of all non-environmental permit applications and ensure timely approvals and fee payments.
• Maintain comprehensive records of permits, including status within an approval lifecycle, and compliance documentation.
• Coordinate public participation processes, including public meetings and comment period, as required.
• Research and analyze local, state, and federal regulations relevant to non-environmental permits.

• Conduct assessments to determine the environmental impacts of proposed projects.
• Prepare and submit environmental permit applications, including NEPA, Section 404, DEQ, and other relevant permits.
• Collaborate with engineers and project managers to gather necessary data and documentation.
• Ensure compliance with environmental regulations and standards throughout the project lifecycle.
• Coordinate public participation processes, including public meetings and comment period, as required.

• Stay current on changes in laws, regulations, and industry standards affecting permitting processes.
• Develop and maintain positive relationships with regulatory agencies, third parties, and other stakeholders.
• Provide technical guidance and support to project teams regarding permitting requirements.
• Manages day-to-day operational aspects of assigned projects.
• Prepare status updates, reports and presentations for clients, management, and other stakeholders.

Health, Safety, and Environmental Responsibilities:

• All employees are responsible for supporting Audubon Companies’ Health, Safety, and Environmental (HSE) policies and procedures. This includes:
• Performing duties in a manner that protects personal and team health and safety
• Participating in required HSE training, meetings, and reporting activities
• Identifying and reporting hazards, near misses, and unsafe conditions
• Following safe work practices and complying with applicable regulatory requirements

EXPERIENCE AND SKILL REQUIREMENTS:

• Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science, Urban Planning, Civil Engineering, or a related field. Master’s degree preferred.

• Minimum: 2 - 3 years
• Preferred experience: 3-5 years, with previous experience directly related to federal, state, and local permitting processes in both non-environmental and environmental sectors
• Preference for familiarity with both non-environmental and environmental federal, state, and local regulations, such as DOT, DEQ, NEPA, Clean Water Act.

• Understanding of all applicable discipline deliverables.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.

• Able to speak comfortably in a group setting.

No Recruiters, please!

Equal Opportunity Employer/Veterans/Disabled