Permit Specialist

Why CCI? CCI Systems, Inc. is an Employee-Owned Telecommunications Company based in Iron Mountain, MI with 60+ years of industry knowledge and experience. Our outstanding team-based work culture and environment has allowed us to grow, develop, and retain long-term employees. We offer a comprehensive benefits package, competitive pay, flexibility, paid on-the-job training, overtime, professional development, and inspire you to be bold, yet accountable. We value our employee’s hard work and determination and REWARD results all while having fun!

Our mission is to make life better by connecting people through innovative communication systems.

We are seeking Permit Specialists to play crucial role in overseeing the permitting process for obtaining public rights of way and utility pole permits for infrastructure projects, ensuring compliance with relevant laws to achieve permit approvals. They serve as a critical liaison between government entities, utility companies, and construction teams to facilitate smooth and efficient progress of permit approvals within the designated right of way areas.

Responsibilities

• Receive and enter incoming work from various sources (email, PDFs, paper, FTP sites, customer databases, etc.) into online database software accurately, and within established timeframes.
• Manage the preparation of all necessary documentation for permit submissions, including applications, maps, and legal descriptions. Ensure that all permitting documentation is accurate, complete, and in compliance with regulatory standards.
• Liaising with governmental agencies, utility companies, and other stakeholders to coordinate right of way activities and ensure compliance with all applicable laws and ordinances.
• Maintaining accurate records and documentation of permits, including associated plans and maps, ensuring that all documents are current and properly filed.
• Work on multiple permitting projects, ensuring that they progress on schedule, within budget, and in accordance with permit conditions.
• Overseeing and managing the processing of permit fees and invoices, ensuring accurate and timely billing, payment tracking, and reconciliation for all right of way permit-related transactions.
• Addressing and resolving revisions, conditions, conflicts, or disputes that arise during the permitting approval process.
• Assist with the planning and coordination of all Aerial and Under permit activities, ensuring compliance with local, state, and federal regulations. Oversee the development and implementation of strategic plans to acquire necessary permits in a timely and cost-effective manner.
• Act as the primary point of contact for internal stakeholders, including government agencies, utility companies, and landowners, to negotiate terms and facilitate the permit acquisition process. Build and maintain relationships to ensure smooth project progression.
• Analyze permit data to identify trends, efficiencies, and areas for improvement, and develop ad hoc reports to support decision-making and strategic planning for department management and permitting teams.
• Setting up and managing internal projects using workflow management software, ensuring that all necessary tasks are defined, appropriately assigned,and integrated into the project timeline for efficient execution and tracking.
• Provide leadership assistance and direction to the permitting teams and other departments, setting clear goals and expectations.
• Continuously evaluate and improve permitting processes and procedures. Implement best practices and leverage technology to increase efficiency, reduce errors, and streamline operations.
• Other duties or special projects, as assigned.

Qualifications

• Associate degree in Business Administration or related field preferred.
• 5+ Years Experience in Utility Right of Way permitting.
• Associate degree in business administration or related field.
• National Electrical Safety Code (NESC) Certifications
• Proficient knowledge of O-Calc Pro, NJUNS, ALDEN, Auto CADD software experience.
• Proficient knowledge of utility pole infrastructure and the make-ready processes.
• Proficient knowledge of Railroad permitting processes.
• Proficiency in understanding and applying local, state, and federal right of way regulations and standards.
• Proficiency in understanding and applying utility pole regulations and standards.
• Ability to manage multiple complex projects, coordinate multiple tasks, and maintain schedules and budgets.
• Skilled in negotiating with property owners, public officials, and contractors, and resolving disputes effectively.
• Strong analytical skills to assess permit applications, interpret data, and make informed decisions.
• Excellent verbal and written communication abilities for clear and concise interaction with various stakeholders.
• Familiarity with GIS software, workflow management systems, and other technical tools used in permit coordination.
• Meticulous attention to detail in reviewing applications, plans, and legal documents related to ROW/Easements and Pole Owners.
• Experience in working in a fast-paced environment with multiple teams, providing guidance and ensuring proper training.
• Strong customer service skills to assist applicants and maintain positive relations with the public and other agencies.
• Ability to adapt to changing laws, technologies, and environments within the scope of right of way permit management and infrastructure development.
• The capacity to effectively prioritize and manage tasks with minimal supervision, maintaining productivity and meeting deadlines in a remote work environment.
• Knowledge of cable and fiber optic design and basic construction practices.
  
  

Shift is full-time Monday – Friday between the hours of 8:30am – 5:00 pm CST. Must be flexible, and willing and able to work outside normal business hours, as necessary.