Environmental Permitting Specialist Houston, TX

Hanwha Energy USA, headquartered in Houston, Texas, is part of the Hanwha Group—a FORTUNE Global 300 company and one of South Korea’s most respected business enterprises. With over a decade of experience delivering high-quality, utility-scale energy projects across North America, Hanwha Energy USA has evolved into a comprehensive energy solutions provider. Our portfolio now spans utility-scale renewables, natural gas generation, retail electricity, and strategic partnerships that power America’s growing data center industry. Our expertise covers the entire energy value chain—from project development and engineering to construction, operations, and maintenance. By integrating advanced technologies, proven processes, and strong partnerships, we deliver reliable, customized solutions that meet the dynamic needs of local energy markets. Position Overview The Environmental Permitting Specialist supports the development and operation of gas-fired power generation projects by leading and coordinating environmental permitting and regulatory compliance activities. This role focuses on air, water, and related environmental permits, development of permitting strategies, and required regulatory reporting to ensure timely approvals, compliance, and operational flexibility. The ideal candidate has a strong working knowledge of federal and state environmental regulations, experience working with regulatory agencies, and the ability to develop practical permitting approaches that support project timelines and ongoing operations. Experience in Texas and PJM states is strongly preferred. The employee may be required to perform other job-related duties as requested by management, and periodic travel (approximately 20–30%) may be required to project sites, regulatory meetings, or agency offices. Permitting Strategy & Support Develop and implement environmental permitting strategies to support new and existing gas power generation facilities, balancing regulatory compliance with operational and commercial needs. Support project development teams by identifying permitting requirements early and aligning permitting schedules with construction and operational timelines. Prepare and manage applications for air permits, water permits, and other environmental approvals required for development, construction, and operations. Coordinate with internal stakeholders (engineering, operations, legal, commercial) to ensure proposed operating scenarios are accurately reflected in permits. Identify opportunities to streamline permits, reduce approval timelines, and maintain flexibility for future operational changes. Agency Coordination & Stakeholder Engagement Serve as a primary point of contact with state and federal regulatory agencies, including TCEQ and environmental agencies in PJM states. Participate in meetings, calls, and correspondence with regulators to clarify requirements and address questions during the permitting process. Assist with public notice activities and responses to agency or public comments where required. Regulatory Reporting & Compliance Prepare and coordinate routine regulatory reports such as annual emissions inventories, greenhouse gas reporting, permit-required certifications, and other applicable federal or state reporting. Track permit conditions and reporting obligations to ensure accurate and timely submissions. Support plant operations with interpretation of permit requirements, reporting instructions, and record‑keeping expectations. Assist with regulatory audits, inspections, and follow‑up actions as needed. Operational Support Support permitting and compliance needs for plant modifications, maintenance projects, and operational changes. Help evaluate whether proposed changes require permit updates, notifications, or regulatory approvals. Maintain organized permitting and compliance records and support internal compliance tracking systems. Assist in developing compliance guidance and training materials for internal teams. Required Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science, Environmental Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or a related field. 5+ years of experience in environmental permitting, compliance, or regulatory support for power generation or similar industrial facilities. Working knowledge of federal and state environmental regulations, particularly air and water programs. Experience preparing or coordinating permit applications and regulatory reports. Ability to communicate effectively with regulators, consultants, and internal stakeholders. Strong organizational skills and attention to detail. Preferred Qualifications Experience permitting or supporting operations in Texas (TCEQ) and/or PJM states. Familiarity with gas‑fired power generation facilities (simple‑cycle, combined‑cycle, or cogeneration). Experience with annual emissions inventories, GHG reporting, or water discharge reporting. Prior involvement supporting regulatory inspections or audits. Experience in environmental permitting and compliance support, regulatory reporting and documentation, project coordination and deadline management, clear written and verbal communication, practical problem‑solving, and cross‑functional collaboration. Hanwha Energy USA provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or genetics. #J-18808-Ljbffr Hanwha Energy USA