Permitting Manager

Description

 The Permitting Manager is a key leadership role responsible for overseeing all aspects of land use permitting and regulatory compliance for renewable energy development projects. This individual brings expert-level knowledge of site permitting, land acquisition, and deployment processes and ensures efficient and timely coordination across internal teams, external vendors, government agencies, and stakeholders. 

Key Responsibilities 

• Lead and manage the permitting function across multiple renewable energy development projects. 
• Direct permitting strategy and execution from site acquisition through project completion, ensuring alignment with organizational goals and timelines. 
• Supervise and mentor permitting staff and consultants, fostering a high-performing, solutions-oriented team environment. 
• Oversee preparation and submission of zoning and permit applications, working closely with legal counsel, engineering, and external partners to ensure completeness and compliance. 
• Serve as the primary liaison to community stakeholders, jurisdictional authorities, and regulatory bodies; manage public engagement as needed. 
• Coordinate cross-functional activities, including title review, environmental assessments, surveys, and lease documentation to support permitting and site readiness. 
• Monitor project progress, resolve permitting delays, and proactively mitigate risks that may impact schedules or budgets. 
• Facilitate coordination of construction phases with permitting milestones, including pre-construction meetings and site surveys. 
• Manage budgets and fee schedules related to zoning, licensing, and permitting; approve expenditures and track cost effectiveness. 
• Communicate status updates, critical issues, and progress reports to senior leadership and project stakeholders. 
• Ensure proper documentation, records management, and compliance reporting. 
• Lead efforts to improve permitting processes and policies, leveraging data and feedback for continuous improvement. 

Requirements

Qualifications 

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent applicable experience in planning, environmental science, construction management, or a related field. 
• Minimum of 2 years of permitting or land use management experience in renewable energy or utility-scale projects. 
• Proven leadership experience with the ability to manage teams, consultants, and cross-functional project stakeholders. 
• In-depth knowledge of local, state, and federal permitting requirements. 
• Strong understanding of commercial construction processes and regulatory compliance. 
• Excellent interpersonal and negotiation skills, particularly in government and community relations. 
• High proficiency in Microsoft Excel and project management tools; experience with permitting software a plus. 
• Demonstrated ability to track and manage large volumes of data, permits, and documents. 
• Strong organizational skills and a detail-oriented mindset. 
• Must possess a valid driver’s license and be able to travel as needed. 
• Experience with blueprint/design interpretation and drafting software (preferred).