Permitting Specialist (Development)– Renewable Energy

Location: Tempe, Arizona
Department: Project Management

Role Purpose

A Permitting Specialist supports the execution of renewable energy projects by coordinating, submitting, tracking, and managing all permits required for construction and commissioning. This includes local, state, and federal permits (e.g., grading, electrical, environmental, right-of-way, and interconnection). The role ensures all permits are aligned with construction milestones and contractor activities. This role requires strong organizational skills, familiarity with regulatory frameworks and the ability to collaborate effectively with internal teams, external consultants, permitting authorities, and stakeholders.This role is part of a global team working toward common goals. We operate as one company, across all locations, with shared responsibility and clear accountability.

Key Responsibilities

• Identify all permitting requirements (zoning, environmental, construction, interconnection, etc.) at local, state, and federal levels for each project.

• Ensure submitted plans and documents comply with local, state, and federal codes and regulations.

• Research and interpret permit regulations, zoning codes, and construction documents.

• Communicate with applicants, developers, contractors, and the public to explain permit procedures, requirements, and fees.

• Coordinate with external consultants, legal advisors, internal development teams, and various departments and agencies to prepare and submit complete permit application.

• Maintain accurate records, files, and logs of permit activities and inspections (digital and physical records) in line with company standards.

• Maintain a permitting matrix and permit trackers for all active projects.

• Liaise with permitting agencies (e.g., County, BLM, USFWS, State Land Departments, DOTs) to respond to information requests and ensure timely approvals

• Compile and route permit folders, maintain permit systems, and recommend process improvements.

• Assist in scheduling and tracking field inspections and maintaining inspection activity logs.

• Ensure that all permits and conditions are reflected in project plans and communicated to engineering, construction, and environmental teams.

• Contribute to risk assessments by identifying permitting delays or challenges that may impact project schedules.

• Prepare reports and assist with administrative tasks as needed.

• Take full ownership of your tasks and deliverables.

• Align your work with company-wide priorities and goals.

• Foster collaboration and accountability across internal teams and in other offices and ensure alignment with company objectives.

Education & Certifications

• (Bachelor's degree in environmental studies, Urban Planning, Public Policy, Engineering, or related field)

• Experience in office administration, permitting, regulatory affairs or construction-related work preferred, preferably in renewable energy, infrastructure, or utilities.

Experience & Technical Skills

• Strong knowledge of building codes, zoning, and development regulations.

• Excellent communication and customer service skills, including the ability to coordinate with government agencies and present materials clearly.

• Ability to research, analyze, and interpret regulations and technical documents.

• Detail-oriented, organized, and able to multitask and meet deadlines.

• Proficient in office software and able to maintain electronic records.

• Ability to work effectively with diverse groups and under pressure.

• Familiarity with permitting frameworks such as CEQA, NEPA, CUPs, SPDs, zoning codes, and environmental impact assessments.

• Understanding of interconnection permitting processes

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite; experience with GIS, SharePoint, or project tracking tools is a plus

Key Competencies

• Detail-oriented with strong analytical and critical thinking skills.

• Ability to interpret legal and financial documentation.

• Effective communicator with stakeholders across technical, financial, and legal domains.

• Highly organized and capable of managing several schedules simultaneously.

• Proactive, accountable, and comfortable in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.

• Strong sense of accountability and ownership.

• Clear communicator who works well across locations and teams.

• Committed to company goals and team success.

Company Culture

We believe in a culture of trust, shared goals, and accountability. No matter where you are based, you are part of one team working toward the same mission.