ABOUT THE ROLE:
We are seeking an exceptional Permitting Specialist with deep experience in data center permitting in Texas to lead regulatory approvals for xAI’s large-scale AI supercomputing facilities and associated power infrastructure. This role focuses on securing and managing zoning, environmental, building, air quality, water, and energy-related permits for high-density data centers and on-site generation projects.
You will navigate complex local, state, and federal regulatory processes — with particular emphasis on Texas requirements (TDLR, TCEQ, ERCOT, local municipalities) — while supporting our primary Memphis operations and potential future expansions. This is a full-time, onsite role based in the Memphis region, working closely with engineering, construction, legal, and facilities teams to enable rapid, compliant deployment at massive scale.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Lead preparation, submission, and tracking of all permitting applications for data center construction, expansion, and power systems, including TDLR project registrations, TCEQ air/water permits, zoning/SUP approvals, and building permits.
- Manage Texas-specific permitting processes such as qualifying data center certifications for tax incentives, ERCOT interconnection support, and environmental compliance (NSR, Title V, stormwater, etc.).
- Coordinate with internal teams (mechanical, electrical, thermal, gas pipeline) to compile technical documentation, drawings, and studies required for permit applications.
- Build and maintain strong relationships with regulatory agencies, municipalities, consultants, and stakeholders in Texas and Tennessee to expedite reviews and resolve issues.
- Conduct regulatory due diligence for new sites, perform gap analyses, and develop permitting strategies and timelines aligned with aggressive project schedules.
- Track permit conditions, compliance obligations, and renewal requirements; support audits, reporting, and ongoing operational permits.
- Monitor evolving regulations (e.g., Texas Senate Bill 6, air quality rules, water usage) and advise leadership on risks and mitigation strategies.
- Prepare presentations, respond to public comments, and support hearings or variance requests as needed.
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:
- Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science, Urban Planning, Engineering, Law, or a related field.
PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:
- Experience supporting hyper-scale AI or HPC data center developments in Texas.
- Familiarity with on-site natural gas generation permitting, air emissions modeling, and power infrastructure approvals.
- Knowledge of federal regulations (EPA, Clean Air Act, Clean Water Act) as they apply to data centers.
- Experience with environmental consultants, traffic studies, noise assessments, and community engagement.
- Experience in permitting for large-scale data centers, power generation, or industrial facilities, with direct, hands-on experience in Texas.
- Strong knowledge of Texas regulatory landscape: TDLR, TCEQ air/water permitting, local zoning/SUP processes, ERCOT, and data center-specific incentives.
- Proven track record managing complex, multi-agency permit packages under tight deadlines in fast-paced environments.
- Excellent project management and organizational skills with the ability to handle multiple work streams simultaneously.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills for technical documentation and agency interactions.
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:
- Willingness to travel to other project locations as needed.
- Ability to work extended hours during critical permitting phases.
- Strong attention to detail and a proactive, solutions-oriented mindset in high-ambiguity settings.
