Visual Resources Specialist/Environmental Planner
Your Opportunity
Stantec is seeking a Visual Resources Specialist / Environmental Planner to join our Impact Assessment, Permitting, and Compliance Practice in Northern California. The position is to be based out of our Walnut Creek, San Francisco, Sacramento, Petaluma, Rocklin, Chico, San Jose, or Fresno Office; geographic alignment with other Stantec offices may be considered based on experience. A hybrid work arrangement is also a possibility for the right candidate. Stantec offers flexible work locations, flexible work hours and a robust compensation and benefits package.
Your Key Responsibilities
As a Visual Resources Specialist, you will apply your experience in visual impact assessment (VIA) to leading and supporting VIA documents for roadway and utility transmission infrastructure projects in California. This work includes evaluation of effects related to highway improvement projects, new electrical transmission facilities, and electrical transmission / distribution system upgrades. You may also support VIAs related to renewable energy developments and transmission projects throughout the western U.S. This role requires an understanding of the various forms and component parts of VIAs, as well as demonstrable experience producing or supporting VIAs. Such experience may include some or all of the following: assessment of visual impacts using established federal methods (e.g., BLM, FHWA, USFS); site photography; document production including incorporation of graphics (simulations and maps); proficiency in or understanding of GIS’ role in VIAs, including viewshed analyses and other forms of visualization; and the external and internal communication / coordination required for efficient completion of high-quality visual assessments.
You will also assist in providing planning and permitting support for electrical transmission siting and licensing projects. Experience producing environmental impact assessments under CEQA, NEPA, or an equivalent is highly recommended, as is experience producing critical issues analyses or plan consistency documents. Doing so for a utility or in the context of electrical infrastructure is preferred.
This position requires a strong writer. It requires an organized task manager who can coordinate contributions from a technically diverse team (e.g., GIS, photo-simulations, and graphic designers) while personally producing the analysis and broader document these individual elements will support. Stantec’s visual resources planners work with project managers, have direct contact with clients, and are expected to solve problems. Communicative confidence is a must.
You Capabilities and Credentials
- 5-15 years of experience producing or supporting visual impact assessments as part of a project approval process.
- 5 years of experience performing land use / environmental planning and permitting work, at least some of which has been conducted within the context of compliance with CEQA or NEPA.
- Strong research, analysis, and reporting ability. Strong writing and communication skills a must.
- Ability to support multiple projects, focusing on details while also managing broader set of components.
- Ability to read and interpret basic site layouts and plan schematics, topographic maps, aerial photographs, and other maps / map resources.
- Commitment to producing high-quality work.
- A valid driver’s license and satisfactory driving record.
Preferred
- Formal training in any federal VIA method a plus.
- Experience working for, with, or otherwise supporting utilities a plus.
- Experience working for, with, or otherwise supporting transportation agencies a plus.
- Direct knowledge of GIS, CAD, three-dimensional modeling software, and other data / mapping applications a plus.
- Familiarity in the execution of shadow flicker analyses, using WindPro, for wind energy projects.
- Interest / experience in site photography.
Education and Experience
- Basic: BA/BS degree in Urban, Regional or Environmental Land Use Planning, Environmental Science, Environmental Studies, Landscape Architecture, or a related field.
- Typical office environment working with computers and remaining sedentary for long periods of time. Field work may include exposure to the elements including inclement weather and walking on uneven surfaces. Ability to lift and move items and equipment up to 50 lbs.
This description is not a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that may be required of the employee and other duties, responsibilities and activities may be assigned or may be changed at any time with or without notice.
Stantec is a place where the best and brightest come to build on each other's talents, do exciting work, and make an impact on the world around us. Join us and redefine your personal best.