Environmental Permitting Specialist

Permitting Specialist

We are seeking a Permitting Specialist with strong experience in environmental permitting and regulatory compliance to support fiber-optic, make-ready, and utility distribution projects. This role focuses heavily on managing environmental reviews, National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) compliance, endangered species considerations under the Endangered Species Act (ESA), and historic preservation documentation, all of which are critical requirements for broadband deployments. The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience navigating multi-agency environmental processes while also coordinating Right-of-Way (ROW), traffic control, and utility permitting. Candidates should be proficient in preparing environmental submissions, working with federal and state agencies, and ensuring projects meet all environmental and construction authorization requirements.

Key Responsibilities:

• Manage environmental permitting and documentation, including National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) evaluations, environmental screening, Endangered Species Act (ESA) compliance, and historic preservation requirements applicable to broadband and utility projects.
• Prepare environmental submissions for federal, state, and local agencies and coordinate with regulatory bodies to resolve issues and expedite approvals.
• Identify environmental constraints along fiber routes and utility corridors and provide guidance to engineering teams to avoid or minimize impacts.
• Support integration of environmental best practices and mitigation measures into construction documents and field execution.
• Submit Right-of-Way (ROW) permit applications to municipalities, counties, and state Department of Transportation (DOT) agencies for project segments requiring land access or construction authorization.
• Prepare pole attachment applications and coordinate make-ready requirements with utility pole owners, ensuring environmental constraints are addressed early in the process.
• Develop and submit traffic control plans as required for permit approval, ensuring compliance with the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD) and Department of Transportation (DOT) requirements.
• Acquire special permits—including railroad and waterway crossings—while ensuring environmental impacts are documented and mitigated.
• Maintain permit logs, environmental records, compliance documentation, and provide regular updates to engineering teams and project managers.

Required Skills & Qualifications:

• Experience with environmental permitting, including National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), Endangered Species Act (ESA), and cultural/historic preservation compliance for broadband or infrastructure projects.
• Knowledge of environmental screening tools, mitigation planning, and environmental best practices used in federal broadband programs.
• Understanding of municipal and state permitting processes, including Right-of-Way (ROW), utility coordination, and traffic control permitting.
• Familiarity with pole attachment permitting, make-ready workflows, and environmental considerations affecting pole infrastructure.
• Ability to interpret environmental reports, engineering drawings, route maps, and permitting requirements.
• Strong communication, documentation, and organizational skills with ability to coordinate across agencies and stakeholders.

Education and Experience:

• Associate degree in Environmental Science, Environmental Engineering, Utility Design, Engineering Technology, or a related field.
• 2+ years of experience in environmental permitting for telecom, utility, construction, or infrastructure projects.

Benefits:

• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Retirement plan with company match
• Professional development and training opportunities