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Permit Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

This role is especially well suited for an NPDES permit writer who can independently manage substantial portions of the permitting process, apply federal and state requirements to complex discharges ...

Prepare and submit weekly Funding Requests for land acquisition contracts and Coding Sheets to request funds at the time of closing * Assist with Land permit processing, track permit status, and ...

Prepare and submit weekly Funding Requests for land acquisition contracts and Coding Sheets to request funds at the time of closing * Assist with Land permit processing, track permit status, and ...

Showing results 21-40

Permit information

See Virginia salary details

$27.3K

$50.2K

$74.4K

How much do permit jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for permit in Virginia is $50,224.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39,700.00 and $60,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a permit specialist?

Permit specialists are professionals responsible for managing and facilitating the process of obtaining permits required for construction, business operations, or other regulated activities. They review applications, ensure compliance with local, state, and federal regulations, and serve as a liaison between applicants and regulatory agencies. Their work ensures that all necessary documentation is in order and that projects or businesses adhere to legal requirements before proceeding.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a permit specialist?

To thrive as a Permit Specialist, you need a solid understanding of regulatory compliance, attention to detail, and knowledge of permitting processes, usually supported by a relevant associate's or bachelor's degree. Familiarity with permit management software, document tracking systems, and sometimes GIS tools or specialized industry certifications is often required. Strong organizational skills, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication help you coordinate with agencies and stakeholders. These competencies ensure permits are processed accurately and efficiently, reducing delays and maintaining legal compliance in projects.

What are common challenges faced by permit specialists when coordinating with regulatory agencies?

Permit specialists often encounter challenges related to varying requirements and timelines among different regulatory agencies. Each agency may have its own set of documentation, review processes, and standards for approval, which can lead to delays or the need for additional clarifications. Effective communication, attention to detail, and proactive follow-up are essential skills for navigating these complexities and ensuring timely permit approvals. Building strong professional relationships with agency contacts can also help streamline the permitting process.

What is the difference between Permit vs Building Inspector?

AspectPermitBuilding Inspector
Required CredentialsTypically none, but may need basic training or certificationRequires certification or licensing, often with specific training
Work EnvironmentPre-approval process, office and site visitsSite inspections, office work, and compliance checks
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by contractors, developers, and government agencies for project approvalUsed by local government agencies to enforce building codes

In summary, a Permit is a document or approval needed before starting construction, while a Building Inspector is a professional who ensures construction complies with codes and regulations. Both roles are essential in the construction process but serve different functions within the industry.

What are the most commonly searched types of Permit jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Permit jobs in Virginia are:

What are popular job titles related to Permit jobs in Virginia?

For Permit jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Permit jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Permit jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Permit jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Permit job openings:

Infographic showing various Permit job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, and 20% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $50,224 per year, or $24.1 per hour.

Mid-Level NPDES Permit Writer

ERG

Fairfax, VA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 27 days ago


Job description

ERG is a research and consulting firm that provides a wide range of support to federal, state, and commercial clients. ERG offers multidisciplinary teams with nationally recognized skills in engineering, science, economics, public health, informational technology, and communications. We hire people with the best minds and then provide them with a vibrant and flexible environment in which to develop their careers. The qualified individual must be highly motivated with the skills to prioritize, perform, and communicate effectively in a fast-paced environment.

ERG provides technical expertise and high-quality service across the water sector to help improve the environment and public health. Committed to attracting and retaining top talent in the water quality industry, ERG offers a casual and collaborative work environment, flexible work arrangements, and opportunities for professional growth and development.

ERG's Fairfax, VA office is seeking a Mid-Level Environmental Scientist with 3-10 years of experience supporting Clean Water Act-related environmental efforts across the United States. This role is especially well suited for an NPDES permit writer who can independently manage substantial portions of the permitting process, apply federal and state requirements to complex discharges, communicate effectively with regulators and permittees, and contribute to multiple projects at once.

In this role, the selected candidate will work alongside experienced NPDES professionals and multidisciplinary teams that include engineers, scientists, policy specialists, data analysts, and regulatory experts. Responsibilities may include supporting the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) program, collecting and managing data, analyzing information, conducting desktop reviews and assessments of program documents, and preparing technical reports. Technical work will be performed under the direct supervision and mentorship of experienced ERG staff.

Job Description:
  • Develop, review, and revise individual and general NPDES permits, fact sheets or statements of basis, public notices, response to comments documents, and supporting administrative records
  • Review permit applications, discharge monitoring reports, facility records, engineering information, prior permits, inspection findings, and other technical materials for completeness and regulatory relevance
  • Characterize industrial and municipal processes, wastewater sources, treatment systems, discharge locations, receiving waters, pollutants of concern, and operational conditions
  • Develop technology-based effluent limitations using applicable effluent limitations guidelines, secondary treatment standards, best professional judgment, and other federal or state requirements
  • Evaluate the need for water quality-based effluent limitations, including reasonable potential analyses and interpretation of applicable water quality standards, criteria, wasteload allocations, and implementation procedures
  • Calculate effluent limitations and monitoring requirements using appropriate statistical, technical, and regulatory methods
  • Address whole effluent toxicity, mixing zones, antidegradation, impaired waters, total maximum daily loads, other water quality issues, as applicable
  • Develop monitoring, reporting, recordkeeping, special condition, best management practice, compliance schedule, and pretreatment requirements
  • Review technical analyses prepared by others and perform quality-control checks for regulatory consistency, technical accuracy, and completeness
  • Research and interpret the Clean Water Act, federal NPDES regulations, effluent guidelines, EPA guidance, state regulations, water quality standards, program policies, and relevant permitting precedents
  • Coordinate with permitting authorities, facility representatives, technical specialists, and other interested parties to obtain information and resolve permitting issues
  • Support public participation activities, including preparation of public notices, evaluation of comments, development of responses, and revision of proposed permits
  • Prepare technical memoranda, regulatory analyses, standard operating procedures, permit templates, guidance materials, and training materials
  • Track assignments, budgets, schedules, deliverables, and outstanding information needs across multiple concurrent permits or projects
  • Participate in meetings with clients, regulatory agencies, permittees, and project teams and clearly communicate technical and regulatory conclusions
  • Provide technical guidance and review support to junior staff and contribute to the development of consistent, efficient permitting approaches
  • Support NPDES program evaluations, permit quality reviews, backlog reduction efforts, process improvements, and training activities
  • Contribute to proposals, scopes of work, cost estimates, and other business-development activities, as appropriate
Qualifications and Skills:
  • Experience with NPDES program implementation or other water-related environmental programs
  • Familiarity with the NPDES permitting program and regulations pertaining to wastewater and stormwater
  • MS, BS, or BA in Environmental Science, Biology, Chemistry, Geology, Engineering or related discipline
  • Outstanding written and oral communication skills
  • Strong data analytical skills
  • Proficiency in conducting desktop research
  • Ability to work alone and within a multi-disciplinary team
  • Ability and willingness to travel locally and across the United States as necessary. Little to no travel is anticipated during the first year of employment but may be required over time
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Word and Excel
  • Acquaintance with erosion and sediment control practices for construction sites and other stormwater pollution prevention best management practices
  • Knowledge of municipal and/or industrial wastewater treatment processes
$60,000 - $90,000 a year
ERG is an equal opportunity employer and complies with all applicable EEOC regulations. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual preference, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.  

Please be aware, the only authentic corporate domain for ERG is https://www.erg.com.  ERG may, on occasion, screen applicants via telephone or video interviews via Skype, Teams, GoToMeeting, or another type of video platform. However, any candidate extended a job offer might be asked to meet in person with an ERG employee before providing confidential personal information associated with new employment. 

If you're a qualified individual with a disability or a disabled veteran, you have the right to request a reasonable accommodation if you are unable or limited in your ability to use or access ERG's online application process as a result of your disability. To request accommodation, please contact Human Resources via email at [email protected] or call (781) 674-7293. 

ERG fosters a friendly, flexible work environment. ERGers are dedicated to serving clients who are committed to making the world a better place. We promote and recognize principles of fairness and respect in the work we do, the partnerships we foster, and the culture we value both within and outside of our organization. 
 
 
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