National Grid Renewables is a full-service renewable energy company headquartered in Minneapolis, Minnesota. National Grid Renewables has developed over 2,400 megawatts of wind and solar projects that are either operational or currently under construction throughout the United States. National Grid Renewables has a multi-gigawatt development pipeline of wind and solar projects in various stages of development throughout the United States. National Grid Renewables provides custom solutions for utilities and corporations looking to harness renewable energy for business growth. With deep roots in agriculture, National Grid Renewables prides itself on developing renewable energy projects that are farmer-friendly, community-driven, and beneficial for rural communities.
Position Description
The Environmental Compliance Lead will manage all permitting requirements and ongoing compliance obligations throughout project operation to ensure continuous adherence to all applicable requirements, including the management of species take authorization applications. The Environmental Compliance Lead will work closely with members of the permitting and operations teams to transition from development to operational compliance and will report to the Director of Permitting.
Duties
- Oversee compliance with all permitting and environmental requirements, laws, regulations, and commitments for all operating assets
- Manage development obligations that continue into the operation phase in an orderly transition
- Track all relevant permitting / environmental laws and regulations, and direct other staff/departments to update internal policies and strategies in accordance with legal / regulatory changes
- Coordinate compliance deliverables / responses across internal departments
- Monitor business activities for compliance and make recommendations for improved processes when appropriate
- Manage compliance budgets in coordination with the Accounting and Asset Management departments
- Proactively anticipate, assess, and mitigate potential noncompliance incidents
- Respond to noncompliance incidents and coordinate response across internal departments
- Apply/obtain for operational permits as needed, including required and voluntary federal and state take permits for any listed / protected species
- Manage operational monitoring surveys and related agency coordination / disclosure, incl. ongoing reporting requirements
- Manage government, agency, and consultant relationships
- Participate in industry working groups to stay up to date on new or revisions to applicable laws and regulations
Experience/Qualifications
- B.A. or B.S. in environmental science/studies or closely related field or equivalent work experience
- Minimum of 5 years of experience in environmental permitting and expertise with local and state permitting requirements and obtaining regulatory approvals
- Experience working with U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, State Historic Preservation Offices, and/or state Public Utility Commissions
- Extensive experience with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and working with lead federal agencies
- Knowledgeable of relevant state and federal permitting and wildlife regulations including but not limited to Migratory Bird Treaty Act, Endangered Species Act, Clean Water Act, and Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Ability to analyze, organize, and interpret data and translate information into direct, easy to understand deliverables
- Must be flexible and detail-oriented with excellent problem-solving skills
Strong proficiency with Microsoft Office, ESRI ArcMap, and Google Earth Pro
Preference may be given to candidates with the following:
- Renewable energy development experience
- Strong interpersonal skills, including the ability to establish effective working relationships and articulate issues and subject matter to process owners while being a team player
- Skills/Attributes:
- Strong writing skills
- Achievement driven
- Energetic
- Able to manage multiple tasks and projects
- Loyal and committed to the organization
- Pursuit of personal growth
National Grid Renewables believe fostering diversity, equity and inclusion is everyones responsibility. Open, honest and respectful ways of working, learning and communicating are the cornerstones of a successful business, and leveraging inclusion and diversity lead to better business results. At National Grid Renewables, were focused on creating a work environment where our people feel respected and included, and therefore empowered to be themselves.