REG Environmental Lead

Edp Renewables North America - Houston, TX

Full-time - Mid Level

Houston, TX

10,001+ employees

Building Material and Garden Equipment and Supplies Dealers

About the position

The Environmental Lead at EDP Renewables North America LLC is responsible for overseeing and managing the preparation of environmental documents and permits for renewable energy projects. This role ensures compliance with federal, state, and local regulations while advising various teams on environmental permitting and compliance throughout the project lifecycle. The Environmental Lead will also manage consultants, oversee wildlife compliance, and track environmental policy issues, contributing to the company's commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship.

Responsibilities

• Oversees and manages the preparation of federal, state, and local environmental documents including permits and conservation plans.
• Advises on environmental permitting and compliance from planning through implementation and operations.
• Develops project-specific scope and schedule documentation for environmental work activities.
• Supervises environmental consultants, managing contract execution and ensuring document quality.
• Manages preparation of environmental studies for renewable energy facilities and reviews permit applications.
• Initiates agency consultations and leads strategy efforts for agency meetings.
• Supports due diligence efforts to ensure projects meet permitting requirements and internal standards.
• Makes recommendations regarding Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) and Renewable Energy Credit (REC) bids.
• Manages post-construction wildlife compliance requirements and represents EDPR NA in Technical Advisory Committees.
• Assists in developing project avoidance and mitigation measures and manages their implementation.
• Tracks current and pending rulemaking and public policy issues related to environmental permitting.
• Coordinates with legal counsel to ensure compliance with environmental laws.
• Provides training and guidance to staff regarding environmental affairs and permitting.
• Makes recommendations regarding internal standards for environmental and sustainability practices.
• Assists in the development and implementation of EDPR's Environmental Management System.
• Participates in industry collaboratives and initiatives regarding wildlife and siting issues.
• Develops and maintains relationships with stakeholders and regulators.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree required, advanced degree preferred.
• 5-10 years of related professional experience.
• Demonstrated experience in permitting energy projects in diverse regulatory environments.
• Knowledge of environmental requirements for new wind/solar projects.
• Understanding of Microsoft products and/or complementary products preferred.
• Competency in Analytical Problem Solving, Strong Communication, Customer/Partner Relationships, and Technology Expertise preferred.

Nice-to-haves

• Experience with Habitat Conservation Plans (HCP) and Eagle Conservation Plans (ECP).
• Familiarity with National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) documents and Bird and Bat Conservation Strategies (BBCS).

Benefits

• Flexible work environment
• Opportunities for development and internal mobility
• Positive and innovative workplace culture
• Commitment to diversity and inclusion
• Recognition as a top employer in various categories