Permit Specialist/Technician

Overview
The candidate will be located in the Chicagoland area and can WFH and will travel to city, county and DOT mtgs as required.
The Permit Specialist (Technician) is responsible for processing and managing all permits required for fiber-to-the-home network deployments. This role focuses on regulatory compliance, permit submissions, plan review, and building relationships with jurisdictional authorities to ensure timely project approvals.

Key Responsibilities

Permitting and Compliance Research and interpret local, county, state, and federal regulations related to Rights-of-Way (ROW) and fiber infrastructure deployment. Prepare, submit, and track all permit applications ensuring compliance and timely approval. Address compliance issues proactively, including challenges related to historical, environmental, or community requirements. Coordinate field inspections as required.

Plan Review and Documentation Examine construction plans, blueprints, surveys, and specifications to ensure compliance with applicable codes and ordinances. Process plan revisions after permits have been issued. Maintain permit records including copies of documents, correspondence, and compliance communications. Compile code and record data to assist internal engineering and field teams.

Jurisdictional Relationships Build and maintain relationships with permitting authorities including city planning departments, transportation agencies, utility pole owners, and environmental agencies. Act as the primary contact between customers, permit staff, zoning coordinators, highway departments, and plan reviewers. Maintain up-to-date contact information for decision-makers across all active jurisdictions.

Communication and Reporting Respond to permit and regulatory questions from internal teams and external agencies. Confirm all decisions and directions through email ensuring proper documentation. Provide regular project status updates to internal teams on pending approvals and outstanding items.

Required Skills & Qualifications

• 3+ years of permitting experience in fiber, telecom, utility, or municipal infrastructure
• Strong understanding of ROW regulations at local, state, and federal levels
• Experience reading and interpreting blueprints, site plans, and construction drawings
• Experience with permitting software and online application portals
• Strong organizational skills with ability to manage multiple active permits simultaneously
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills