Is responsible for acquiring necessary permits from numerous local, state and federal agencies to construct high profile and significantly complex utility infrastructure in support of PSE’s capital construction plan.  Additionally, performs project permitting that is complex in nature (highly political, multi-jurisdictional, high environmental impacts, etc.). Is responsible for tracking and assigning land planning projects and resources to accomplish capital construction and utility system improvements. Identifies and manages projects assigned to outside consultants and contract permitting personnel; assesses the quality of work product and contractor performance; provides feedback and makes future assignments accordingly. In conjunction with Purchasing department, establishes and maintains contracts for professional services related to land use and environmental permitting.  Leads mentors and trains Land Planning staff on regulatory and land use requirements for the construction or major modification of utility infrastructure and operations.  Provides subject matter expertize for Land Planning staff and internal/external customers on development of appropriate course of action to accomplish regulatory objectives (e.g. avoidance of permit requirement or timely issuance of permit). Leads the development of company strategy and policy on local, state and federal land use issues such as Comprehensive Plan updates, Shoreline Regulation updates and critical areas ordinances specifically in relation to construction of utility infrastructure and operations.

Upholds the safety compliance standards inherent in PSE’s operating and/or field procedures related to work responsibilities. Promotes and supports a culture of total safety.

• Performs complex land use and environmental permitting functions in support of company capital improvement plans.
• Leads, mentors and trains Land Planning staff.
• Manages projects assigned to contractors.
• Assesses performance to ensure proper land planning actions are executed according to established contracts.
• Leads policy and strategy recommendations on regional land use issues including responding to Comprehensive Plan, Shoreline Regulation and Critical Areas Code updates.
• In collaboration with Municipal Liaison Managers and Government Affairs develops strategies for project   approvals based on knowledge of political and operational processes associated with jurisdictional organizational structure (Council/Mayor/Planning Director).
• In collaboration with Municipal Liaison Managers, proactively manages utility related land use issues with local jurisdictions to minimize or eliminate impacts to PSE and service provider operations.  This includes providing written comments to various government entities at the federal, state and local level and, as necessary, oral testimony at hearings and council meetings.
• Develops contracts (in conjunction with Purchasing) for professional services related to lands use and environmental permitting as necessary to maintain adequate resources on call.
• Works with other departments in development of improved processes associated with land use-related activities.
• Participates in emergency response efforts as needed.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

• BA/BS in Urban/Land Planning, Natural Sciences or related fields
• 7 years’ experience in land use and environmental permitting of utility infrastructure or similar linear projects with demonstrated increasing complexity over time.
• Extensive knowledge of regulatory procedures and processes at the local, state and federal levels.
• Understanding of municipal political processes and structure.
• Ability to read and understand complex utility infrastructure construction drawings.
• Proven ability to manage and resolve conflicts.

• Previous supervisory experience.
• Understanding of PSE gas and electric construction techniques.
• In depth knowledge of utility construction and operations and PSE standards and practices
• In-depth understanding of environmental issues.
• Post graduate work in land planning, environmental or natural sciences, business or public administration or related field.
• Certification in Land Planning or related field. (AICP, Certified Wetland Specialist, etc.)