Southern Company

Specialist III / Sr., Environmental

Southern Company • $88K — $105K *
Energy & Utilities
5 - 7 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • BA/BS in a related physical or natural science field.
  • Minimum of 5-7 years of experience in environmental permitting and compliance.
  • Strong project management experience, particularly with complex environmental projects.
  • Knowledge of federal, state, and local environmental regulations.
  • Ability to interpret environmental policies and conduct due diligence evaluations.

Responsibilities

  • Manage environmental compliance support for energy infrastructure projects.
  • Conduct environmental permitting and authorization activities for pipeline systems.
  • Perform due diligence evaluations for construction projects.
  • Interface with federal, state, and local environmental regulators.
  • Provide training on environmental policies to internal and external stakeholders.
  • Assist in resolving complex environmental compliance issues.

Benefits

  • Hybrid work model with 4 days in-office and 1 day remote.
  • Opportunities for professional development and training.
  • Exposure to diverse environmental management projects across business units.
  • Engagement in sustainability and stewardship initiatives.
Full Job Description
Job Description

Nicor Gas ("Nicor"), a subsidiary of Southern Company Gas, is seeking an experienced environmental professional interested in environmental compliance and permitting energy infrastructure projects in Illinois. Applicant must have the ability to provide experienced environmental support for existing and future system needs at Nicor. Primary responsibilities will include project management of a variety of environmental compliance support activities including performing environmental permitting reviews, regulatory and policy interpretation, and development of permitting and compliance strategies in support of Nicor's operations and construction activities.

Applicant must have the ability to support multiple projects with varying levels of scale and environmental needs/requirements. Individual must maintain knowledge of Company procedures and pertinent federal, state, and local environmental regulations and policies, have the ability to effectively interface with internal and external customers and agencies, as well as be able to assist in resolving complex environmental matters.

The job will be based at Nicor's corporate headquarters in Naperville, Illinois. Due to the nature of this position, a hybrid work model (office and remote work) should be expected. Nicor's requirement is 4-days in office, in the field, or at a customer location with 1-day work-from-home. This position supports all Nicor's business units; thus, office and remote work days may vary to meet business needs.

Job Location: 1844 Ferry Road, Naperville, Illinois60563

Job Overview:

The successful candidate will be responsible for providing expert environmental support for new and existing natural gas infrastructure including conducting due diligence evaluations, managing operations and construction environmental permitting, providing training, evaluating or interpreting regulations, plans, and procedures to ensure compliance, and interfacing with contractors, internal customers and environmental agencies. This position requires competency to consult necessary resources, work independently and ability to take initiative within a dynamic work environment.

Key Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Supports the company's compliance with environmental plans, policies and requirements.
  • Conducts or manages environmental permitting/consultation/authorization activities related to natural gas pipeline systems, including underground natural gas storage and related ancillary facilities.
  • Manages environmental permitting of remediation projects from initial development and planning, through permitting and construction to restoration or final closure of the site.
  • Supports environmental aspects of company operations through compliance, reporting, field inspection/monitoring and stewardship/sustainability/social goals.
  • Performs comprehensive environmental due diligence or desktop reviews during planning of construction projects or other ground-disturbing activities.
  • Provides the necessary support to the Environmental Affairs team to resolve environmental matters.
  • Interacts with Federal, State, and Local regulators on behalf of the company.
  • Performs training to internal and external customers.
  • Drafting or maintaining plans, such as Spill Prevention, Control and Countermeasure Plan (SPCC) or Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP).
  • Manages stormwater drainage issues and oversight of environmental compliance requirements for vegetation maintenance activities.
  • Conducts field surveys and site visits as needed, including to conduct compliance reviews and meetings with construction and inspection personnel.
  • Monitors and analyzes environmental policies and regulations that affect the company and its customers.
  • Assists with environmental compliance audits.
  • Provides supply chain or controls duties, including maintaining current consultant contracts, purchase orders, and invoices.


Education / Degree Qualifications

Required:
  • BA/BS in physical or natural science, including Biology, Environmental Science, Chemistry, Geology, Engineering (Environmental, Civil, or similar) or other related discipline


Preferred:
  • MS in physical or natural science, including Biology, Environmental Science, Geology, Chemistry, Engineering (Environmental, Civil, or similar) or other related discipline


Work Experience & Skills:

Required

  • Minimum of 5 years of experience in project management and environmental/natural resources permitting, compliance, environmental liability management. (Specialist III)
  • Minimum of 7 years of experience in project management and environmental/natural resources permitting, compliance, environmental liability management. (Sr. Specialist)
  • Experience in environmental natural resources permitting and compliance activities, especially the Endangered Species Act,floodplain/floodway regulations, and Clean Water Act (incl. stormwater, waters of the U.S., NPDES and water quality certification)
  • Working knowledge of stormwater best management practices for construction activities.
  • Ability to read and understand standard pipeline construction design and stormwater plans.
  • Strong organizational and project management skills with an ability to adapt to a changing and fast-paced team environment.
  • Computer skills, including the use of GIS systems, SharePoint and other databases.


Preferred

  • Permitting and environmental compliance for linear utility construction activities.
  • Experience with state and local permitting and compliance activities for pipeline or utility company.
  • Experience independently managing large or complex projects with significant environmental implications, such as the impacts or risks associated with different construction methods or techniques.
  • Experience managing environmental inspector(s) during construction or restoration activities.
  • Experience or understanding of wetland and waterbody delineation principles.
  • Stormwater management or erosion and sediment control training or certification
  • Experience preparing SWPPP or SPCC plans.
  • Participation in industry associations or professional organizations.
  • Working knowledge of environmental best practices across the energy or environmental industry.
  • Experience and/or familiarity with site remediation and Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA),


Working Conditions/Physical Requirements:
  • Travel requirements: This position may require travel within the Nicor service area in northern Illinois on an occasional to regular (5-20% travel) basis. Most travel does not require an overnight stay but some trips may require air travel and/or overnight stay away from home for one or more nights an estimated two to three times per year.
  • On-call duties: This position will require the ability to respond to urgent environmental issues when contacted during traditional and non-traditional work hours, as issues arise. On-call duties are estimated as 20% year.
  • Physical demands: This position frequently requires prolonged standing or walking, ability to lift minimum 20 pounds


  • Work environment: This position will be located in an office environment and may be exposed to varying outdoor weather conditions when working with field operations, conducting facility inspections, facilitating assessments, etc.


Disclaimer: This information describes the general nature and level of work performed by employees in this job. The description is not designed to be a comprehensive inventory of duties, responsibilities and qualifications required in the job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to qualified disabled individuals for performance of essential duties and responsibilities.

About the Team

Nicor Gas

About Southern Company

With 4.4 million customers and more than 42,000 megawatts of generating capacity, Atlanta-based Southern Company is the premier energy company serving the Southeast. A leading U.S. producer of electricity, Southern Company owns electric utilities in four states and a growing competitive generation company, as well as fiber optics and wireless communications. Southern Company brands are known for excellent customer service, high reliability and retail electric prices that are significantly below the national average. Southern Company has been listed the top ranking U.S. electric service provider in customer satisfaction for nine consecutive years by the American Customer Satisfaction Index.

Southern Company Careers

Join the dynamic team at Southern Company, a leader in energy innovation and a champion of sustainable practices. As one of the most respected companies in the energy sector, Southern Company offers unparalleled job opportunities that promise not only professional growth but also a commitment to diversity and leadership development.

Work You’ll Do

At Southern Company, we are not just about power generation; we are about empowering our team to innovate and lead the industry. By joining our team, you will collaborate with some of the brightest minds in the field, using your skills to solve complex problems and drive meaningful change.

Explore a World of Opportunities

Whether you are looking for a full-time position, an internship, or a leadership role, Southern Company has a place for you. Our wide range of employment options ensures that every team member can find a path that best suits their career ambitions and skills.

Innovate and Lead

Southern Company is at the forefront of technological innovation in the energy sector. Our team members are encouraged to lead projects and initiatives that push the boundaries of what is possible in energy production and management.

Grow and Develop

We believe in nurturing the potential of our employees through targeted diversity training, leadership workshops, and continuous professional development. Career growth at Southern Company is not just a possibility—it is an expectation.

Be Part of Our Culture

Southern Company’s culture is built on a foundation of respect, integrity, and inclusion. We celebrate diversity and believe that it drives innovation. Our team is our family, and we support each other in achieving personal and professional goals.

Benefits That Go Beyond

Choosing a career at Southern Company means enjoying a range of benefits designed to enrich your life and support your lifestyle. From health and wellness programs to retirement plans, we ensure our team members are taken care of.

Join Our Team

Ready to power up your career? Explore the job opportunities at Southern Company today. We are actively hiring and looking for passionate, curious, and solution-driven individuals. Enhance your skills, join a community of innovators, and work towards a sustainable future.

Stay Connected

Keep up to date with the latest at Southern Company by following our careers blog. Gain insider perspectives, industry-leading insights, and practical tips to advance your career.

Networking and Career Advancement

At Southern Company, networking and internal mobility are key components of career advancement. Connect with leaders, engage in cross-departmental projects, and take your professional journey to new heights.

Prepare for Your Interview

Make your mark from the first interview. Visit our career site for tips on crafting your resume, preparing for interviews, and making a lasting impression.

Join Southern Company—where careers glow brighter!

SEARCH SOUTHERN COMPANY JOBS Stay ahead of the curve in your career with Southern Company, where innovation meets tradition and every employee is empowered to excel.
Learn more about Southern Company
Size
27,000 employees
Market Cap
$77.6 billion
Industry
Net Income
$3.1 billion
Founded
1912
5 Year Trend
+3%
Revenue
$20.3 billion

Similar Jobs

More Jobs at Southern Company

More Energy & Utilities Jobs

Find similar Specialist III / Sr., Environmental jobs: