Permitting Project Manager - Environmental Services (Multiple Locations)

Burns & McDonnell's operation in the Great Lakes Region is seeking a motivated seller-doer with strong environmental permitting and natural resources experience on wind and solar projects to grow our Renewable permitting practice. The position reports to the Chicago Natural and Cultural Resources Department Manager and can be based in our Detroit or Madison, WI, offices, primarily supporting Midwest projects with opportunities to support renewable work nationwide.

About the Role

This position leads federal, state, and local permitting to facilitate the construction of renewable energy facilities across the Midwest. Responsibilities include business development, proposal creation, marketing, permitting strategy and scheduling, resource survey management, public meeting participation, regulatory negotiations, and construction compliance oversight.

Responsibilities

• Manage permitting and compliance for renewable facilities, including completion and submittal of federal, state, and local permits.
• Provide project management to ensure projects are completed within budget and schedule while meeting client expectations.
• Offer technical guidance to internal and external teams to successfully complete regulatory requirements, developing and implementing permit strategies aligned with project schedules.
• Manage the preparation of technical documents as needed.
• Identify and develop change management strategies with regulatory agencies, assessing risks tied to permit strategies, project changes, and agency interactions.
• Participate in business development for the renewable market by executing sales and marketing plans, managing client accounts, negotiating contracts, developing technical proposals and cost estimates, and building relationships with new and existing clients.
• Oversee construction compliance (implementation of necessary permits) as requested by clients.
• Mentor less experienced staff and perform additional duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or graduate degree in natural resources, environmental science, or a related field from an accredited program.
• Minimum 7 years of related professional experience.
• Ability to interact effectively with industry, government, and public contacts on project-related matters.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Working knowledge of federal, state, and local regulations for renewable projects in the Midwest is required.
• Experience with state siting processes for renewable facilities is desired.
• Preferred knowledge of regulations and permitting requirements for wetlands, threatened and endangered species, stormwater and erosion & sediment control, cultural resources, architectural history, and the National Environmental Policy Act.
• Self-motivated, detail-oriented, and able to collaborate effectively in a team environment.
• Proven ability to manage dynamic teams, multi-faceted projects, meet deadlines under pressure, and work professionally with diverse audiences (regulators, public officials, clients, etc.).

This is a full-time position requiring up to 25% travel.