Field Environmental Manager – Utility-Scale Solar

SunEnergy1; Bethel (NC); On-site; USD 75,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

SunEnergy1 is seeking a Field Environmental Manager to lead environmental compliance across utility-scale solar construction sites. The role requires hands-on field oversight, coordination with contractors, and proactive management of site-specific environmental protection plans.

The position will monitor SWPPP/NPDES compliance, perform site inspections, and maintain thorough records while liaising with environmental consultants and regulators. Travel to remote project sites is expected.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Environmental Science, Environmental Engineering, Natural Resources, or related field.
• Knowledge of EPA, NEPA, Clean Water Act, Endangered Species Act, state/local permitting.

Responsibilities

• Implement and monitor compliance with environmental regulations, permits, and site-specific plans (SWPPP, SPCC, dust control).
• Perform routine site inspections and audits to identify environmental risks and opportunities for improvement.
• Monitor and document compliance with NPDES permits and other regulations.
• Coordinate environmental training for construction teams and subcontractors.
• Maintain records including inspection logs, incident reports, and permit documentation.
• Act as liaison between project teams and environmental consultants, permitting agencies, and inspectors.
• Support vegetation management, wildlife mitigation, and preservation requirements.
• Assist in resolving environmental compliance issues through field adjustments and mitigation strategies.
• Provide ongoing environmental reporting to corporate compliance teams and clients.

Skills

Regulatory knowledge

Field inspections

Documentation

Stakeholder coordination

Education

Bachelor's degree in Environmental Science, Environmental Engineering, Natural Resources, or related field

Tools

GIS

Drones

Digital inspection tools

Job description

Position Summary:

The Field Environmental Manager will lead environmental compliance and performance efforts at utility-scale solar construction sites. This position is responsible for ensuring that projects adhere to all applicable federal, state, and local environmental regulations, permits, and sustainability standards. The role requires hands-on oversight in the field, coordination with contractors and subcontractors, and proactive management of site-specific environmental protection plans.

Key Responsibilities:

• Implement and monitor compliance with environmental regulations, permits, and site-specific plans, including:
  
  
  
  • Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP)
  
  
  • Spill Prevention, Control and Countermeasure (SPCC)
  
  
  • Dust control and wildlife protection measures
  
  
  
  


• Perform routine site inspections and audits to identify environmental risks and opportunities for improvement.


• Monitor and document compliance with National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permits and other relevant regulations.


• Coordinate environmental training and toolbox talks for construction teams and subcontractors.


• Maintain comprehensive records including inspection logs, incident reports, and permit documentation.


• Act as primary liaison between project teams and environmental consultants, permitting agencies, and inspectors.


• Support vegetation management, wildlife mitigation, and cultural/archaeological preservation requirements.


• Assist in resolving environmental compliance issues through field adjustments, mitigation strategies, and collaboration.


• Provide ongoing environmental reporting and communicate updates to corporate compliance teams and clients.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Environmental Science, Environmental Engineering, Natural Resources, or related field.


• 3+ years of environmental compliance experience in construction, energy, or infrastructure – utility-scale solar experience strongly preferred.


• Knowledge of applicable environmental regulations (e.g., EPA, NEPA, Clean Water Act, Endangered Species Act, state/local permitting).


• Proficiency with SWPPP/NPDES requirements and BMP (Best Management Practices) implementation.


• Ability to read and interpret environmental permits, site plans, and technical drawings.


• Valid driver's license and ability to travel to project sites in remote locations.

Preferred Qualifications:

• CESCL, CESSWI, or CPESC certification.


• Experience with environmental technologies such as GIS, drones, or digital inspection tools.


• Familiarity with permitting processes for renewable energy projects.


• Comfortable working in outdoor field conditions for extended periods.

Working Conditions:

• Primarily field-based on active solar construction sites.


• Exposure to varying weather conditions and rough terrain.


• Travel and overnight stays required based on project needs.