Client Overview:
High Country Search Group is partnering with a prominent, independent energy producer operating across major producing basins in Alaska. Operating with a deep commitment to environmental stewardship and operational excellence, the organization manages extensive onshore and offshore oil and gas assets. Driven by an agile, values-centered leadership team, the company offers a fast-paced environment, high technical autonomy, and a clear trajectory for long-term professional impact.
Position Summary:
We are seeking an experienced Air Quality Specialist / Air Environmental Specialist to serve as the subject matter expert managing permitting and regulatory compliance across Alaskan exploration and production assets. This is a critical technical leadership role designed for a driven professional who excels at securing necessary air permits, managing compliance frameworks, and maintaining strong relationships with regulatory agencies. You will serve as the primary air quality liaison across multiple field sites, working directly with operational teams, internal specialists, and regulatory authorities to ensure seamless operations.
Key Responsibilities:
- Permitting & Technical Leadership: Serve as the technical expert for air quality; perform and manage activities across multiple facilities, fields, and operating areas to secure all necessary air quality permits and authorizations.
- Compliance & Agency Liaison: Maintain full compliance with federal, state, and local air quality statutes, regulations, and legal requirements. Serve as the primary liaison to regulatory agencies and track evolving regulatory changes.
- Project Management & Budgeting: Develop, execute, and monitor project plans and budgets associated with air quality compliance and permitting. Solicit, retain, and manage specialized environmental contractors.
- Cross-Functional Collaboration: Coordinate permitting efforts with internal clients and environmental specialists. Train office and field personnel on air quality requirements, procedures, and best practices.
- Operational Readiness & Support: Serve in the Incident Command System (ICS), assist leadership with due diligence for asset acquisitions, and maintain 24/7 availability to respond to critical compliance or operational issues.
Education and Qualifications:
- Education & Experience: Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science, Environmental Engineering, or a related discipline required (Advanced degree preferred). Must possess 5+ years of dedicated air quality permitting and compliance experience in Alaska, including 3+ years specifically supporting oil and gas exploration and production (E&P).
- Technical Knowledge: Deep expertise in Alaskan air quality regulations, air permitting processes, and technical compliance frameworks. Direct experience with regional E&P facilities, field operations, and operating environments is strongly preferred.
- Communication & Collaboration: Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with a proven ability to translate complex technical information for non-technical stakeholders and establish effective working relationships with agency personnel.
- Software & Technology: High proficiency with MS Office and the ability to adapt quickly to specialized environmental and IT management tools.
- Certifications (Preferred): Professional Engineer (PE) license or Qualified Environmental Professional (QEP) certification.
- Specialized Requirements: Valid driver's license; ability to travel to remote locations (including travel via small aircraft and helicopters), perform work at heights, and handle overnight stays in remote field locations.
Why This Opportunity?
This is an exceptional opportunity to join an industry leader where your environmental expertise directly supports critical energy infrastructure. Working alongside supportive regional leadership, you will enjoy direct operational autonomy, a collaborative team culture, and continuous opportunities for career growth. The organization offers a highly competitive salary ($120k - $140k) paired with a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision coverage, 401(k) with a 7% match, generous paid time off, and professional development support. If you are a seasoned air quality professional ready to take ownership of high-impact environmental programs, this is your next step.