Permit Engineer

At CGS Business Solutions, we’re dedicated to helping skilled IT and business professionals take the next meaningful step in their careers. Whether you're exploring project-based consulting roles or seeking a long-term position, we connect you with opportunities that align with your expertise, your goals, and your growth trajectory. Backed by deep industry insight and our proven TalentFlow™ Framework, we ensure every role we present is thoughtfully matched to your skills, passions, and career ambitions. If you're ready for a role that challenges you and moves your career forward, we’re currently partnering with leading organizations to fill the following opportunity:

CGS is hiring for one of its Central California Energy customers who is seeking a FULL TIME Permit / Air Quality Engineer that will be responsible for supporting environmental compliance and project execution by coordinating and managing permitting activities across multiple regulatory agencies.

This position is responsible for securing, maintaining, and renewing all required environmental permits while ensuring compliance with local, state, and federal regulations, as well as supporting project timelines and operational requirements. The Permit Engineer will primarily collaborate with the San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District (SJVAPCD) and may also work with regulatory agencies such as the California Air Resources Board (CARB), Regional Water Quality Control Board (RWQCB), and other environmental authorities. The ideal candidate will demonstrate Kern Energy's core values of Teamwork, Safety, Excellence, Integrity, and Connection in all aspects of their work.

Responsibilities

• Prepare, review, and submit environmental permit applications, renewals, amendments, and modifications to support refinery operations and capital projects.
• Serve as the primary point of contact with regulatory agencies, including CARB, air districts, and water districts, ensuring effective communication and timely resolution of permitting matters.
• Perform engineering calculations and technical analyses related to industrial processes and air pollution control systems to evaluate and quantify air emissions.
• Partner with project teams to identify permitting requirements early in the project lifecycle and incorporate regulatory milestones into project planning and execution.
• Evaluate proposed projects and facility modifications for environmental impacts and permitting requirements, proactively identifying potential risks and recommending mitigation strategies to minimize schedule and budget impacts.
• Develop and implement process improvements that enhance permitting efficiency, support regulatory compliance, and reduce project delays.
• Maintain accurate and well-organized records of permit applications, regulatory correspondence, approvals, and supporting documentation.
• Assist with environmental reporting, regulatory audits, inspections, and compliance activities as needed.
• Monitor changes to local, state, and federal environmental regulations, permitting requirements, and industry standards to ensure ongoing compliance and successful project execution.

Skills

• Strong understanding of environmental permitting processes and regulatory frameworks, particularly related to air, water, and waste.
• Experience working with Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District (SJVAPCD). Familiarity with agencies such as California Air Resources Board (CARB) and the Regional Water Quality Control Board.)
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.

Education/ Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or a related discipline.
• 5-8 years of experience in environmental permitting or compliance, preferably in the refining, petrochemical, or industrial manufacturing sectors.
• Experience preparing Title V air permit applications.

CGS Business Solutions is a nationally recognized leader in IT staffing and consulting, delivering top-tier talent across Applications, Cloud & Infrastructure, Cybersecurity, Data & AI, and Engineering. As a multi-year INC 5000 winner and one of California’s Best IT Recruitment Firms, we’re known for combining boutique-level service with enterprise-grade results.

We’re also proud to be named one of the Orange County Business Journal’s Fastest Growing Companies, earning the distinction for five consecutive years as we continue to expand into new markets across the U.S. Companies trust CGS to attract, engage, and retain elite technology talent—giving them the advantage they need to lead with confidence in a rapidly evolving digital landscape