Project Manager - Environmental Permitting & Compliance (Renewable Energy) - Chicago

Talisman Advisory Partners is seeking a Project Manager for Environmental Permitting & Compliance in Chicago, Illinois, focusing on renewable energy projects. The role involves leading permitting efforts, overseeing regulatory reports, and managing stakeholder relations. Candidates should have 10+ years of experience in environmental permitting, particularly in solar and wind projects, and strong knowledge of relevant laws. Responsibilities include project management, compliance strategy development, and mentoring junior staff.
Project Manager - Environmental Permitting & Compliance (Renewable Energy)
Chicago, illinois

Overview:

We are seeking an experienced Project Manager with a strong background in environmental permitting, field ecology, and regulatory compliance, particularly in renewable energy sectors such as solar, wind, and utility-scale projects. The ideal candidate will bring significant expertise in leading environmental assessments, habitat conservation plans, and obtaining key environmental permits while managing multiple stakeholders. This is an exciting opportunity to work on large-scale renewable projects across the U.S.

Key Responsibilities:
• Lead environmental permitting efforts for utility-scale renewable energy projects (solar, wind, transmission, etc.), ensuring compliance with federal, state, and local regulations.
• Oversee preparation of Environmental Assessments (EAs), Environmental Impact Statements (EIS), and other key regulatory reports in compliance with NEPA, ESA, CWA, and other relevant legislation.
• Coordinate with federal and state agencies, including U.S. Fish and Wildlife, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and local regulatory bodies, to ensure smooth permitting processes.
• Manage permitting tasks for projects involving water and wetland surveys, threatened and endangered species assessments, cultural resources reviews, and biological surveys.
• Develop and implement compliance strategies for construction monitoring, including stormwater pollution prevention plans (SWPPP), vegetation management, and wildlife monitoring.
• Provide oversight and management of project timelines, budgets, and client relations, ensuring that all environmental compliance activities are aligned with project goals.
• Serve as a primary point of contact for clients, regulatory agencies, and contractors throughout the permitting process.
• Mentor and manage junior staff and support team development.

Qualifications:
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in environmental permitting, with a strong focus on renewable energy projects (solar, wind, transmission).
• Proven track record managing large-scale projects and complex permitting requirements, including experience with NEPA, ESA, CWA, and other environmental laws.
• Extensive experience in managing Section 401/404 permits, Incidental Take Permits (ITPs), Habitat Conservation Plans (HCPs), and Environmental Assessments (EA).
• Strong working knowledge of field ecology, habitat assessments, waters and wetlands permitting, and environmental construction compliance. • Experience working with a variety of stakeholders, including federal, state, and local agencies, clients, contractors, and other project team members.
• Ability to lead and manage cross-functional teams, ensuring compliance with environmental laws and regulations throughout project development.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including experience preparing and reviewing technical reports and presentations for clients and agencies.
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and prioritize tasks effectively.

Preferred Qualifications:
• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Environmental Science, Biology, Ecology, or a related field. • Certifications or training in environmental permitting, compliance, and project management.
• Experience with environmental compliance in multiple states and regions across the U.S.

We Offer:
• Competitive salary and benefits package. • Opportunity to work on cutting-edge renewable energy projects.
• A dynamic and collaborative work environment.
• Professional development and growth opportunities.

If you're passionate about driving the growth of renewable energy while ensuring environmental compliance, we encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity to contribute to impactful projects across the nation.