Senior Permitting Manager

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AECOM is seeking a Senior Permitting Manager in Fresno, CA. This position is also open to remote work; however, the client is in California and it is expected that this individual's working hours are aligned with Pacific Time.

SUMMARY:

The Senior Permitting Manager is responsible for environmental compliance and permitting strategy oversight for the California High-Speed Rail Program. This individual develops permitting strategies and provides direction to permitting staff. This role also involves coordination with regulatory agencies, internal teams, and external stakeholders to quickly and efficiently resolve complex permitting challenges and overall compliance with state and federal environmental requirements.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Provide strategic oversight of permitting program activities
• Guide permitting strategy and ensure regulatory compliance pursuant to the Clean Water Act, Endangered Species Act, California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), and National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA)
• Oversee and direct the work and activities of the permitting compliance team
• Collaborate with permitting and compliance staff to develop, review, and obtain approval on permitting compliance plans
• Support coordination with permitting agencies during the environmental review process
• Evaluate compliance with existing permits, and assess the adequacy of existing and new CEQA/NEPA documents for planned and ongoing construction and maintenance activities
• Coordinate with the mitigation manager to ensure that compensatory mitigation requirements are met
• Interface with internal and external stakeholders as directed by the Authority
• Support pre-record of decision (ROD) environmental permitting activities pursuant to Section 404 of the Clean Water Act, Section 7 of the federal Endangered Species Act, among others

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

• BA/BS in environmental planning, environmental science, biology, or a related field and 8 years of relevant experience or demonstrated equivalency of experience and/or education

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Master’s degree in biology, environmental science, or related field and 15 years of experience
• Prior experience with high-speed intercity passenger rail or transit
• Extensive experience in California with regulatory permitting, environmental programs/projects, and permitting compliance
• Project or program management experience, including work with design-build contracting and construction processes
• Expert knowledge of federal and state environmental laws and regulations (e.g., Clean Water Act [Sections 401, 402, and 404], California Fish and Game Code [Sections 1602 and 2081], Endangered Species Act [Section 7], National Historic Preservation Act [Section 106])
• Strong working knowledge of CEQA and NEPA
• Team leadership or management experience

• Travel may be required.
• Sponsorship is provided.

About AECOM 

AECOM is proud to offer comprehensive benefits to meet the diverse needs of our employees. Depending on your employment status, AECOM benefits may include medical, dental, vision, life, AD&D, disability benefits, paid time off, leaves of absences, voluntary benefits, perks, flexible work options, well-being resources, employee assistance program, business travel insurance, service recognition awards, retirement savings plan, and employee stock purchase plan. 

AECOM is the global infrastructure leader, committed to delivering a better world. As a trusted professional services firm powered by deep technical abilities, we solve our clients’ complex challenges in water, environment, energy, transportation and buildings. Our teams partner with public- and private-sector clients to create innovative, sustainable and resilient solutions throughout the project lifecycle – from advisory, planning, design and engineering to program and construction management. AECOM is a Fortune 500 firm that had revenue of $16.1 billion in fiscal year 2024. Learn more at aecom.com. 

What makes AECOM a great place to work 

You will be part of a global team that champions your growth and career ambitions. Work on groundbreaking projects - both in your local community and on a global scale - that are transforming our industry and shaping the future. With cutting-edge technology and a network of experts, you’ll have the resources to make a real impact. Our award-winning training and development programs are designed to expand your technical expertise and leadership skills, helping you build the career you’ve always envisioned. Here, you’ll find a welcoming workplace built on respect, collaboration and community—where you have the freedom to grow in a world of opportunity. 

As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we believe in your potential and are here to help you achieve it. All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.