Manager, Environmental Planning & Permitting

WHO WE ARE

“Energizing the Future.”

TransAlta owns, operates, and develops a diverse fleet of electrical generation assets in Canada, the United States, and Australia, providing municipalities, industries, and businesses with safe, low-cost, and reliable clean electricity. For over 111 years, TransAlta has been a responsible operator and proud community member where its employees work and live. We are committed to fostering a dynamic, productive, and safe work environment. Our employees contribute to a diverse, open, and transparent culture with clear accountabilities, strong leadership, and challenging opportunities for personal career growth.

For more information about TransAlta, visit our website at, www.transalta.com.

ABOUT THE ROLE

TransAlta has an opportunity for a Senior Manager, Environmental Planning & Permitting to lead our environmental planning and permitting efforts across our portfolio of renewable and gas-fired development projects.  This position reports to the VP of Growth, based in our head office in Calgary, Alberta.  Our preference is a candidate residing in Denver or San Diego or someone willing to relocate.

This role will manage a team of two 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. 

The successful candidate will bring deep experience in North American permitting processes, particularly in the western United States and Alberta, Canada, ideally with experience across multiple jurisdictions and technologies, as well as a demonstrated ability to lead complex, multi-disciplinary permitting strategies for large-scale energy projects.  This role requires expertise in environmental regulations, permitting, due diligence, and stakeholder engagement to support TransAlta’s growth and operational excellence.

WHAT YOU WILL DO

• Lead all environmental and permitting activities for the company’s renewable and 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)
• Lead and mentor a team of environmental professionals and other team members, providing guidance on best practices and 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 that all company projects comply with local, provincial (state), and federal environmental regulations. This includes assessing potential environmental impacts and implementing mitigation strategies
• Manage the acquisition of necessary permits and approvals for various projects, 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
• Lead within a matrix organization, collaborating with internal departments, external consultants, Indigenous communities, and other stakeholders to facilitate communication and address environmental, permitting and regulatory concerns related to company operations
• 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

WHAT WE NEED FROM YOU

• Bachelor's degree in environmental science, engineering, or a related field.  Advanced degrees or professional certifications (e.g., P.Ag, R.P.Bio) may be preferred.
• 10 or more years in environmental planning, permitting, and compliance within the utilities sector with a focus on renewable energy and natural gas.  Experience working with Independent Power Producers (IPPs).
• In-depth understanding of environmental regulations across North American jurisdictions and generation technologies.
• Proven experience obtaining air quality, water, wetland, and land use permits, including navigating NEPA, SEPA, and similar frameworks.
• Proven ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously, with strong organizational and scheduling skills to ensure timely completion of tasks.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with a collaborative mindset suited to a matrixed organization.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to effectively engage with diverse stakeholders and present complex information clearly.
• Familiarity with GIS mapping and environmental modeling tools.
• Strong network of regulatory contacts and consultants in key U.S. and Canadian markets.

WHAT WE OFFER

TransAlta is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment where you can be your true and authentic self. We offer our employees comprehensive and flexible benefits, competitive compensation, annual incentives, and an employee rewards and recognition program. Here are some highlights of our total rewards package:  

• Annual base salary starting at USD $107,600 - $147,950.  The final agreed-upon base salary is based on the successful candidate(s) qualifications and experience.
• Annual incentive program
• 401(k) plan with 5% fixed employer contributions, up to 3% company matching, and additional employee contribution
• Benefits program for you and your family which includes medical, dental, vision, and life insurance
• Paid time off

** Please note that our total rewards program is subject to change based on state or federal eligibility and legislation and as per the final terms and conditions of the offer of employment.

To learn more about how we can energize your future, check out our new Employee Experience Booklet.

Become part of our TransAlta team today! We look forward to reviewing your application.

Don’t meet every single requirement? Studies have shown that women and people of color are less likely to apply for a job unless they meet every single qualification. At TransAlta, we are dedicated to building an inclusive, diverse workforce where you can show up every day as your true, authentic self. So, if you’re excited about this role but your qualifications and experience don’t quite tick every box, we encourage you to apply anyways. You might just be the candidate we are looking for.