Railroad Permitting Specialist

Location: Akron, OH
Job Type: Long-Term Contract Opportunity

Aspen Technical Staffing is seeking a Railroad Permitting Specialist for a long-term contract opportunity supporting utility infrastructure projects in the Akron, Ohio area. This role will be responsible for coordinating and securing railroad-related permits and authorizations to support transmission line, substation, and related infrastructure projects. The ideal candidate will have experience navigating complex permitting requirements for linear utility projects and working with a variety of project stakeholders.

Key Responsibilities

• Coordinate with project managers, design engineers, environmental consultants, GIS mapping specialists, and real estate coordinators to prepare and submit railroad permit applications.
• Manage permit applications from initiation through approval, ensuring timely issuance of permits and authorizations.
• Obtain permitting authorizations for linear transmission line projects, including:
  • Railroad crossings
  • Turnpike crossings
  • Entry permits
  • Access permits
• Track permit status and maintain detailed records of permitting activities and project milestones.
• Support environmental permitting efforts as needed.
• Support fiber and communications permitting activities as requested.
• Collaborate with construction contractors involved in transmission lines, fiber installations, road construction, foundations, geotechnical investigations, surveying, and restoration activities to ensure permitting compliance.
• Assist with document research and permit-related due diligence.
• Provide permitting support for electrical distribution projects.
• Respond to client requests and provide project support as directed.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Environmental Science, Environmental Planning, Natural Resources, Engineering, or a related field from an accredited institution.
• Minimum of five (5) years of experience obtaining permits for Pennsylvania linear infrastructure projects.
• Experience coordinating railroad crossing permits and related utility permitting requirements.
• Strong understanding of permitting processes for transmission, distribution, and utility infrastructure projects.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and permitting efforts simultaneously.
• Proven ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment.
• Strong client service mindset and attention to detail.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications and permit tracking systems.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience supporting utility, transmission, distribution, telecommunications, or transportation infrastructure projects.
• Familiarity with environmental permitting and right-of-way processes.
• Experience working with railroad companies, state agencies, and utility owners.