DescriptionThe Lead Environmental Scientist/Staff Environmental Engineer (NEPA) will report to the Senior Manager, Environmental (NEPA) and will lead environmental permitting (e.g. Sections 404/10) efforts associated with new projects, as well as the maintenance of existing assets. Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
- Prepare, either individually or through oversight of third-party contractors, state/federal authorization requests, namely U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Section 404/10, state/federal construction stormwater permits, state/federal hydrostatic test discharge permits, state drilling mud landfarming permits, and other state/federal authorizations, as applicable.
- Develop permitting/project strategies that help maintain project schedules without sacrificing regulatory compliance.
- Maintain knowledge of relevant environmental regulations, such as Clean Water Act (CWA), Endangered Species Act, National Environmental Policy Act, National Historic Preservation Act, and Rivers and Harbors Act Sections 10 and 408.
- Promote and maintain effective communication amongst internal project stakeholders, project management, third-party contractors, and regulatory personnel.
- Provide oral and/or written weekly permitting updates to NEPA Senior Manager and various project stakeholders.
- Lead efforts to maintain project compliance with applicable state/federal authorizations.
- Oversee and review the execution of natural and cultural resource surveys, as well as the preparation of associated reports.
- Develop and maintain strong working relationships with internal stakeholders, key regulatory personnel, and third-party contractors.
QualificationsThe successful candidate will meet the following qualifications:
- Bachelor's degree in environmental, biological science, engineering or other relevant technical field is preferred.
- Ten or more years of consistent linear project permitting experience, primarily CWA (e.g. Nationwide Permit 12) and relevant state permits. Candidates with fewer years of experience may be considered for an Environmental Scientist/Engineer or Senior Environmental Scientist/Engineer role.
- Demonstrated experience and understanding of USACE permitting processes, including Section 404, Section 10, Section 408, and Real Estate, as well as associated NEPA-related obligations.
- Existing positive relationships and extensive experience working with regional regulatory personnel, namely USACE Fort Worth, Galveston, and New Orleans Districts.
- Adept at communicating effectively to project stakeholders and regulatory staff, as well as members of senior management.
- Demonstrated ability to overcome regulatory challenges to maintain or abbreviate schedules and reduce projects costs through a solution-oriented mindset.
- General knowledge of the construction and operation of pipelines, storage, and other oil/gas-related facilities.
- Maintains a positive attitude toward working in an office environment full time.
