Environmental Permitting Specialist - Entry Level (Hybrid)

Environmental Permitting Specialist

Barr is seeking an environmental permitting specialist to join our Duluth office and undertake challenging and fast-paced work on large and complex environmental permitting and compliance projects. Assigned work tasks may include conducting environmental reviews; communicating with regulatory agencies and client contacts; developing and reviewing environmental permit applications; assisting a team of people with environmental review and permitting; coordinating field inspections and supporting field staff; conducting stormwater inspections; and reviewing field reports to verify environmental compliance. The selected candidate will work with other Barr staff, clients, subcontractors, and regulatory staff. Fieldwork opportunities for this position may be year-round.

The ideal candidate for this position is a clear and confident communicator who thrives in collaborative and independent work environments. They are adaptable, organized, proactive, eager to learn, and comfortable asking thoughtful questions. They bring a high level of attention to detail and take ownership of assigned tasks. They demonstrate reliability, strong problem-solving skills, and a growth mindset as they build their technical skills and professional judgment. Above all, they value teamwork, quality, and integrity in delivering impactful environmental solutions.

Your impact – key responsibilities

• Technical knowledge: apply environmental principles and regulatory knowledge to support environmental reviews, develop and review permit applications, and track compliance with applicable federal and state requirements.
• Project support: coordinate and support field inspections and environmental review activities. Assist project teams by organizing permitting efforts, tracking progress, and reviewing field reports to verify compliance and accuracy
• Problem solving: evaluate environmental data, site conditions, and regulatory requirements to identify potential permitting or compliance challenges. Contribute to effective, practical solutions that support project goals while maintaining regulatory compliance.
• Communication: clearly communicate with regulatory agencies, clients, and internal team members regarding permitting requirements, application development, and compliance status through written documentation and verbal updates.
• Interpersonal savvy: collaborate with multidisciplinary project teams, regulatory staff, clients, and subcontractors to support permitting efforts and align environmental compliance activities with overall project objectives.

About the opportunity

• Hybrid: a hybrid work arrangement may be considered for this position. A hybrid work arrangement refers to splitting time worked between a Barr office and a home office. This position is based out of Barr's Duluth, Minnesota, office.
• Fieldwork: up to 25% local fieldwork. Project needs will vary seasonally and over time.
• Work environment: ability to work in locations that may feature rough terrain typical of construction sites and may also require entering and working in facilities that include limited accessibility, moving machinery, and other conditions typical of industrial facilities. Job assignments may involve work on waste disposal sites and sites requiring cleanup of hazardous materials. An OSHA-mandated physical exam may be required. Safety training will be provided. Applicants may be asked to participate in a drug screening program at the request of specific clients. Candidates must be able to perform job duties with or without reasonable accommodation.

Physical requirements for the role include:

• Ability to conduct fieldwork in varying outdoor conditions (e.g., heat, cold, rain, uneven terrain).
• Must be able to lift and carry equipment and materials weighing up to 50 pounds.
• Must be able to work individually in remote locations.
• Capable of standing, walking, kneeling, or crouching for extended periods.
• Use of personal protective equipment (PPE) as required by site conditions.
• Ability to safely operate or work around environmental monitoring and sampling equipment.

About you – required core competencies

• Education: bachelor's degree in physical, natural, or environmental science; environmental engineering; or a related degree.
• GPA: minimum GPA of 3.0/4.0.
• Software: strong computer skills, including word processing and use of spreadsheets. Familiarity with the Microsoft Office Suite.
• Driver's license: possession of a current, valid driver's license and acceptable driving record.
• Must be legally authorized to work in the United States without the need for sponsorship by Barr, now or in the future.

Helpful additional experience (not required)

• 2+ years of professional experience with federal/state environmental regulatory programs or related experience.
• Experience with state and federal environmental regulations, permitting processes, and/or field compliance for utility corridor projects.
• Experience with soil erosion and sedimentation control plans, construction stormwater plans, and site restoration plans.
• AGOL/ArcGIS or database software familiarity.

Compensation: anticipated range of $55,000–$65,000 annually. Compensation will vary based on relevant experience, education, skill level, and other compensable factors. Employees in this position may also be eligible for a discretionary cash bonus based on team and individual performance. This position is classified as exempt (salaried) under the Fair Labor Standards Act

Benefits - what we offer

We are committed to providing an employee experience that attracts and retains top talent. That's why we offer a competitive package of employee benefits - including some unique offerings not found at other companies. At Barr, we also believe that learning doesn't stop when you get your degree, which is why we provide coaching, mentoring, and support for ongoing educational opportunities to foster professional development at every stage of your career.

• Competitive, affordable insurance plans: Medical, dental, vision, life, disability, accidental death insurance, and flexible spending accounts for medical and dependent care
• Retirement benefits: 401(k) retirement savings plan with company contribution and an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) with company contribution in Barr stock
• Profit distribution: Barr has a "no retained earnings" model and distributes all profit to our employees through our annual bonus distribution plan, ESOP, and dividends to shareholders
• Professional development benefits: Annual time and expense allowances, mentorship program, and many internal training opportunities
• Work/life balance: Paid time off, holidays, overtime for non-exempt/hourly staff, and compensatory time for exempt/salaried staff (time off or pay for extra time worked), paid family leave
• Wellness focus: Ergonomic analysis and equipment, Personal Protective Equipment allowance, wellbeing-focused educational opportunities

Please note that benefits eligibility is determined and may change based on part-time, reduced-time, or full-time status.

About us - why choose Barr

At Barr, you'll join a community of engineers, scientists, and professionals who will help you achieve your ambitions and build a meaningful, rewarding career. You'll serve as a trusted advisor to clients who value Barr's tailored solutions and commitment to exceptional service.

As part of our employee-owned firm, you'll contribute to a culture of commitment and camaraderie where staff can thrive as professionals. We value diverse perspectives and experiences and believe an inclusive workplace is critical to our success.