Environmental Specialist Principal | Generation Site Development & Construction

Job Posting End Date

06-17-2026

Please note the job posting will close on the day before the posting end date.

Job Summary

Exhibits advanced level proficiency plus advanced knowledge of a specialized technical area that enables the specialist to serve as a resource for the company in an area.

Works in a team environment to provide environmental permitting and compliance support to a variety of company facilities, including power generating stations, electric transmission and distribution facilities, service centers, office buildings and other AEP regulated and commercial business operations.

Engages in complex regulatory development activities, as well as research and development related to environmental regulatory compliance.

Job Description

What you'll do:

* Identifies, clarifies, resolves, and initiates solutions to complex compliance problems that require multi-functional, or organizational, interfacing and/or multi-disciplined analytical techniques.

* Leads, facilitates and coordinates work activities of others within work group, team, department, or those external to the company and assumes the role of project or function manager for assigned compliance tasks.

* Serves as an internal expert resource in a specialized environmental technical or regulatory program area and is highly recognized and regarded by those external to the company.

* Develops, recommends, and implements plans that include all scheduling, resource, and cost information and control required to address complex compliance problems that require the input and efforts of a wide array of entities both internal and external to the company.

* Identifies areas for needed environmental research, and initiates and coordinates relevant projects.

* Leads in the preparation and presentation of complex technical subjects, clearly, concisely, and persuasively, bringing in ancillary issues before senior management, professional organizations, regulatory bodies, etc.

* Identifies and initiates pro-active changes to regulations and standards, in the interests of the company, and engages multiple stakeholders in the process, networking throughout AEP, other companies, professional organizations, and regulatory agencies.

* Serves in a leadership position within professional and business environmental regulatory and research organizations.

What we're looking for:

* Bachelor's degree (environmental science, biology, chemistry, natural resources, or ecology or related field)

* Minimum of 10 years of environmental experience.

* Support power generation siting studies by overseeing all permitting requirements, engaging local and state agencies, and investigating water rights.

* The role requires proficiency in industry software, data management, and the ability to collaborate across technical and non-technical teams.

* An Environmental Specialist reviewing and permitting water rights in the electric power industry requires a blend of regulatory expertise, technical hydrology, and strategic stakeholder management. Key skills include water rights law navigation, complex permit coordination, analytical hydrogeology, and regulatory compliance.

* We want highly motivated and detail-oriented people who are team players.

Other Requirements:

* Individuals with a Master's or Doctorate degree may be considered for entry into the organization at this level.

* Availability to work overtime, call-out overtime and shift work may be required depending on business unit.

* Travel requirements are expected 10-25% of the time

* Physical demand level is Sedentary

* Registration in recognized associations and organizations for environmental professionals is encouraged.

* 40 hours per week with some overtime required.

* Demonstrate ability to manage time effectively and efficiently and demonstrate organizational and planning skills, as well an aptitude for accuracy, attention to detail and ability to achieve goals.

* Demonstrates a basic level of technical knowledge related to writing and verbal communication.

* Proficient in use of computer and Microsoft Office products including Word, Excel, Outlook and PowerPoint.

* Team player with ability to work and collaborate well with others.

*…