Major Projects Permitting Leader

Job Summary
The Major Projects Permitting Leader will be responsible for coordinating and securing all necessary permits and approvals required for projects involving municipal roadways, railroads, and other related infrastructure. This role requires proactive communication with project teams, municipalities, railroad companies, and other stakeholders to ensure that all permitting requirements are met and that project timelines are adhered to. The individual will work closely with local government agencies, railroads, and utility companies to facilitate road closures, track access, and other necessary permissions, ensuring the timely and compliant execution of projects.

This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to complex infrastructure projects while working directly with municipalities, railroad companies, and other stakeholders to ensure smooth and successful project execution.

Essential Functions

• Collaborate with internal project teams to identify and understand the permitting requirements for upcoming projects, including road closures, track access, and other municipal or railroad-specific permits.
• Support and direct any LOA capital project permitting individuals assisting Engineering.
• Leads diverse team of qualified individuals with authority to hire, terminate, promote, demote, coach, develop and performance manage.
• Develop and manage a permitting schedule that aligns with project timelines, ensuring all permits and approvals are secured within required timeframes.
• Serve as the primary liaison between NiSource’s project teams, municipal governments, and railroad companies to obtain necessary permits for construction and maintenance activities.
• Communicate effectively with municipalities and railroad authorities to navigate their permitting processes, address concerns, and negotiate conditions as needed.
• Ensure compliance with all local, state, and federal regulations pertaining to road closures, construction activities, and railroads.
• Manage the application process for permits and approvals, including submitting necessary documentation, tracking the progress of applications, and following up with relevant agencies as needed.
• Work with the project team and/or Engineering to correct or identify the requested documents or design deliverables to address issues or requirements required from municipalities or railroad companies.
• Assist the Construction Management team with the coordination with local law enforcement, traffic control agencies, and public safety organizations to ensure road closures and disruptions are managed appropriately and with minimal impact to the public.
• Prepare and maintain comprehensive records of all permits, correspondence, and documentation related to each project.
• Resolve permitting issues that may arise during project execution, including troubleshooting and addressing delays or disputes with municipal or railroad authorities.
• Assist in identifying potential challenges or bottlenecks in the permitting process and work proactively to mitigate risks.
• Provide guidance and support to the project team regarding permit conditions and requirements throughout the lifecycle of the project.
• Provide supervision to other permitting coordinators in either the electric or gas companies.
• Other duties as assigned
• 
  
  
   
• Required Qualifications For Position
• 
  
• Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, or any equivalent discipline that allows individual to be able to read and interpret engineering prints for permitting requirements.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in municipal or railroad permitting, infrastructure projects, or related regulatory roles.
• In-depth knowledge of local government processes, municipal permitting, and railroad regulations.
• Strong understanding of road closure procedures, safety protocols, and traffic management.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines simultaneously.
• Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
• Familiarity with project management tools and software.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Office-based with occasional field visits to project sites.
• Flexibility to work outside of standard business hours as required to meet project deadlines and municipal/railroad scheduling constraints.
• 
  
• A valid driver’s license and ability to travel as required.
• 
  
• Preferred Additional Qualifications for Position
  
  Physical Demands
  
  
  The preceding description is not designed to be a complete list of all duties and responsibilities required of the position.