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Environmental Permit Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

Permit Specialist

Portland, OR · On-site

$27 - $38/hr

The Permit Specialist supports permitting and regulatory compliance activities for projects by ... Prior experience in a professional services environment is required. * Strong organizational ...

Permit Specialist

Portland, OR · On-site

$31 - $33/hr

This role is responsible for managing permits from initial preparation through final approval while ... NEPA/environmental permitting experience is a plus. * High School Diploma or GED required. * Valid ...

Environmental Scientist

Portland, OR · On-site

$79K - $104K/yr

Prepare and oversee the development of environmental permits, including Clean Water Act Sections 404 and 401 permits. * Support stream and wetland restoration planning and implementation activities.

Environmental Scientist

Portland, OR

$79K - $104K/yr

Prepare and oversee the development of environmental permits, including Clean Water Act Sections 404 and 401 permits. * Support stream and wetland restoration planning and implementation activities.

Environmental Manager

Deer Island, OR · On-site

$125K - $129K/yr

Maintain and update environmental permits (air, water rights, wastewater). * Oversee environmental monitoring programs including inspections, sampling, testing, and reporting. * Manage waste streams ...

Environmental Engineer

Portland, OR · On-site

$75K - $105K/yr

... permit requirements and regulations; and draft correspondence and/or permits in accordance with ... Collaborative and supportive team environment fosters career growth and development. • Meaningful ...

... permit applications against permit requirements and regulations; and draft correspondence and/or ... Collect, analyze, and interpret environmental data, reaching valid conclusions. Prepare reports in ...

Preparing documentation to support requests for variances from environmental permits. * Evaluating restoration activities and conducting compaction testing as required. * Compliance with ERM ...

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Showing results 1-20

Environmental Permit information

See Portland, OR salary details

$38.2K

$92.9K

$153.8K

How much do environmental permit jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for environmental permit in Portland, OR is $92,907.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $73,700.00 and $107,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are environmental permits and why are they important?

Environmental permits are official authorizations issued by governmental agencies that allow individuals or organizations to carry out activities that could impact the environment, such as construction, waste disposal, or emissions. These permits ensure that projects comply with environmental regulations and standards designed to protect air, water, soil, and public health. Securing an environmental permit typically involves a review of the proposed activity's potential environmental effects and may require mitigation measures. Without these permits, operations may face fines, legal action, or shutdowns. They play a critical role in sustainable development by balancing economic activity with environmental protection.

What are some common challenges faced by environmental permit specialists during the permitting process?

Environmental Permit Specialists often encounter challenges such as navigating complex and evolving regulatory requirements, coordinating with multiple agencies, and managing tight project deadlines. Balancing the interests of clients, regulators, and the public can also be demanding, especially when permit applications generate environmental or community concerns. Effective communication, attention to detail, and proactive project management are essential to overcoming these hurdles and ensuring successful permit approvals.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an environmental permit specialist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Environmental Permit Specialist, you need a solid background in environmental science, regulations, and permitting processes, typically supported by a relevant degree. Familiarity with GIS software, permitting databases, and regulatory systems like NEPA or EPA guidelines is essential. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help in coordinating with stakeholders and preparing accurate documentation. These skills ensure compliance with environmental laws, minimize project risks, and enable successful navigation of complex regulatory environments.

What is the difference between Environmental Permit vs Environmental Technician?

AspectEnvironmental PermitEnvironmental Technician
Required CredentialsEnvironmental compliance certifications, possibly licensing depending on jurisdictionEnvironmental science or technician certifications, relevant training
Work EnvironmentRegulatory agencies, project sites, officesLaboratory, field sites, industrial facilities
Employer & Industry UsageGovernment agencies, environmental consulting firms, industries needing permitsEnvironmental consulting firms, industrial companies, research labs

Environmental Permits involve obtaining official approval from authorities to operate or undertake specific activities, ensuring compliance with environmental laws. Environmental Technicians assist in monitoring, data collection, and supporting environmental projects. While permits focus on regulatory approval, technicians support the implementation and compliance processes.

How to get into environmental permitting?

To pursue a career in environmental permitting, individuals typically need a background in environmental science, engineering, or a related field, along with knowledge of regulations such as EPA standards. Gaining experience through internships or entry-level positions and obtaining relevant certifications, like the Certified Environmental Professional (CEP), can improve job prospects. Strong analytical skills and familiarity with permitting software are also beneficial.

What does an environmental permit do?

An environmental permit is a legal authorization that allows a person or organization to operate certain activities that may impact the environment, such as emissions, waste management, or resource use. It ensures compliance with environmental regulations and often requires monitoring, reporting, and adherence to specific standards to protect public health and ecosystems.
Infographic showing various Environmental Permit job openings in Portland, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $92,907 per year, or $44.7 per hour.

Permit Specialist

Portland, OR • On-site

TOTH AND ASSOCIATES INC
Utilities • 51 - 200 employees

$27 - $38/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 8 days ago


Job description

The Permit Specialist supports permitting and regulatory compliance activities for projects by coordinating permit applications, maintaining permitting schedules, and facilitating communication with regulatory agencies. Working under the supervision of the Permitting & Compliance Manager, this role serves as a key technical contributor responsible for ensuring permit documentation, approvals, conditions, and deadlines are accurately tracked and communicated. This position collaborates with internal teams, consultants, and agencies to support timely permit acquisition and project execution.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Prepare, compile, and submit permit applications to local, state, and federal agencies.
  • Coordinate procedural communications with regulatory agencies regarding permit requirements, application status, and approval timelines.
  • Track permit comments, review cycles, conditions, approvals, and compliance requirements.
  • Maintain permit schedules, logs, databases, and project documentation.
  • Coordinate and gather necessary inputs from internal departments, project teams, and external consultants to support permit submittals.
  • Monitor permit milestones and communicate status updates to project stakeholders.
  • Ensure permitting records are complete, organized, and readily accessible.
  • Support compliance with regulatory requirements and permit conditions.
  • Identify potential permitting issues or schedule impacts and escalate concerns to senior staff or management.
  • Assist with permit closeout activities and documentation management.
  • Perform other duties as assigned in support of permitting and compliance objectives.
  • High School Diploma or equivalent
  • Prior experience in a professional services environment is required.
  • Strong organizational, planning, and time management skills.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
  • Ability to manage multiple assignments, priorities, and deadlines simultaneously.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and standard business software.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Associate's or Bachelor's degree in a related field.
  • Experience with permitting, environmental review, regulatory compliance, or agency coordination.
  • Familiarity with permit tracking systems and project management tools.
  • Experience working with local, state, or federal regulatory agencies.

Benefits:

  • Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • Eight paid holidays
  • Company-paid medical and dental coverage with buy-up options
  • 401(k) w/company matching and profit sharing
  • Discretionary bonuses
  • Paid Bonding Leave
  • Vision
  • Company-paid life insurance and long-term disability insurance
  • Supplemental life insurance available
  • Short-term disability available
  • FSA and HSA options
  • Education assistance

Company Overview:
Toth and Associates, Inc. (TOTH) is a full-service consulting engineering firm offering a broad range of services, including electric utility engineering, structural engineering, civil engineering, land services, GIS/mapping, utility rate services, and joint-use/make-ready support. Since our founding in 2003, we have grown to serve public and private utilities, municipalities, architects, developers, educational institutions, and other clients across the country.

At TOTH, we believe strong relationships are the foundation of successful work. Our team is built on professional expertise, collaboration, and a commitment to serving both our clients and one another well. We value people, encourage continued growth, and strive to provide a workplace where employees can build meaningful, rewarding careers.

TOTH offers competitive compensation, a comprehensive benefits package, professional development opportunities, and a supportive work environment. Visitwww.tothassociates.comto learn more about our company.