ABOUT THE ROLE
TransAlta is seeking a Manager, Environmental Planning & Permitting to lead our environmental planning and permitting efforts across our portfolio of renewable and natural gas-fired development projects. This position reports to the VP of Growth on a full time, permanent basis.
This role will manage a small team of Environmental Planners and work within a development matrix organization alongside key expert hubs such as Stakeholder and Governmental Relations, Regulatory affairs, Transmission and Interconnection, Resource and GIS, and Engineering.
We are specifically looking for a candidate with deep experience in U.S. natural gas generation permitting, particularly in the western United States. The ideal candidate will have a strong track record navigating complex permitting processes across multiple jurisdictions and technologies, and a demonstrated ability to lead multi-disciplinary strategies for lage-scale energy projects.
This position is based out of our Downtown Calgary Head Office, with the flexibility of a hybrid work schedule. Candidates residing in Denver or San Diego or those interested in relocating will also be considered.
A DAY IN THE LIFE
- Lead all environmental and permitting activities for the company's renewable and natural gas development portfolio, from early-stage site evaluation through construction and into operations
- Develop and implement permitting strategies that optimize timelines and minimize risks across multiple jurisdictions (local, state, federal), with a focus on U.S. natural gas generation projects
- Lead and mentor a team of environmental professionals, ensuring consistent application of environmental policies across projects
- Manage relationships and negotiations with regulatory agencies (e.g., state environmental agencies, local planning boards, EPA, BLM)
- Oversee environmental planning processes to ensure compliance with local, state/provincial, and federal environmental regulations
- Manage the acquisition of necessary permits and approvals, coordinating with regulatory agencies and ensuring timely submissions
- Oversee the preparation and submission of environmental documents including Environmental Assessments, Environmental Impact Statements, Special Use Permits, Conditional Use Permits, and air, water, and land use permits
- Collaborate with internal departments, external consultants, Indigenous communities, and other stakeholders to address environmental, permitting, and regulatory concerns
- Conduct and manage environmental and permitting due diligence for potential acquisitions, greenfield, and brownfield development opportunities
- Monitor and interpret environmental laws and policies that could impact development, advising senior leadership accordingly
- Manage third-party consultants, budgets, and timelines associated with environmental and permitting workstreams
- Represent the company at public hearings, community meetings, and industry forums
ABOUT YOU
- Bachelor's degree in environmental science, engineering, or a related field; advanced degrees or professional certifications (e.g., P.Ag, R.P.Bio) are an asset
- 10+ years of experience in environmental planning, permitting, and compliance, with a strong focus on U.S. natural gas generation projects
- Proven experience obtaining air quality, water, wetland, and land use permits, including navigating NEPA, SEPA, and similar frameworks
- In-depth understanding of environmental regulations across North American jurisdictions, especially in the western U.S.
- Experience working with Independent Power Producers (IPPs)
- Strong organizational and scheduling skills with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously
- Excellent communication skills and a collaborative mindset suited to a matrixed organization
- Familiarity with GIS mapping and environmental modeling tools
- A strong network of regulatory contacts and consultants in key U.S. and Canadian markets
TransAlta Corporation
110 Twelfth Ave SW
Calgary
Alberta Canada
www.transalta.com
