Job Summary

The Environmental Project Manager I is a member of the Air Quality & Sustainable Practices (AQSP) Team that serves both the NWSA and the Port of Tacoma. The AQSP Team develops, leads, and coordinates a range of projects, programs, and initiatives designed to advance the Northwest Ports Clean Air Strategy – the overarching goal of which is to phase out all air and climate pollution from seaport activities by 2050 or sooner. This work also advances the Port of Tacoma’s Strategic Plan and the NWSA’s Key Initiatives. Examples of current programs the PM 1 will support include, but are not limited to, the following:

Zero-Emission Drayage Incentive Program, under which we work with trucking companies, infrastructure developers, and other partners to facilitate a just and equitable transition to zero-emission drayage trucking in the NWSA cargo gateway.
Zero-Emission Cargo Handling Equipment (CHE) Incentive Program, through which we work with marine terminal operators and other industry partners to accelerate the transition to zero-emission equipment on NWSA cargo terminals in Seattle and Tacoma:
US-Korea Green Corridor Project, through which the NWSA and its partners are exploring the feasibility of establishing zero-emission cargo shipping lanes between the NWSA gateway and several Korean ports; and
Clean Buildings Initiative, a new program under development to ensure compliance with state and local building energy regulations, including the state Clean Buildings Law.

This position supports the development and implementation of these and other initiatives; manages contracts and consultants hired to support the work; and helps develop state and federal grant proposals that help fund the work. The position also directs studies to ensure compliance or beyond compliance with environmental rules relating to Port marine and land development, Port operations, and asset management.; implements consultant selection process and reviews invoices and contracts; reviews and comments on technical documents, advises Environmental Programs Director and Senior Project Managers of technical, regulatory and liability issues arise of assigned environmental projects; and recommends and carries out strategy and actions. Works closely with other Port staff, tribal government, outside agencies, and other stakeholders to minimize environmental liabilities, complete projects appropriately, achieve consistent compliance, and advance Port objectives.

This is a fully benefited, limited duration position expected to last up to three (3) years.

Primary Functions

Manages project work plans, schedules, and budgets. Coordinates internally as needed. Makes recommendations to address technical, legal and community issues relating to assigned projects.
Conducts research, data collection, and analysis. Synthesizes and summarizes findings to support policy and program development and implementation.
Reviews and comments on environmental reports, studies, plans, articles, and other documents environmental documents from an air quality/sustainable practices perspective.
Collaborates with internal and external stakeholders and partners to develop and implement initiatives. Key internal partners include the NWSA Commercial and Operations teams, the NWSA and Port of Tacoma Real Estate teams, and the Port of Tacoma Engineering and Maintenance teams. Key external stakeholders and partners include supply chain partners (e.g., marine terminal operators, drayage trucking companies, etc.), community-based organizations, and environmental NGOs.
Identifies environmental consultant needs for projects as assigned; develops budgets and scopes of work; presents consultant contract funding requests to Executive Director and Port Commission; negotiates consultant contracts; directs/supervises consultant work; manages budget; and monitors and reviews consultant billings and change orders.
Prepares and presents written and oral briefings to senior executives at both The NWSA and the Port of Tacoma, Port of Tacoma Commission, NWSA Managing Members, and external audiences (e.g. community events, conferences, etc.).

Required Education & Experience

Bachelor’s degree with emphasis in environmental studies, environmental planning, resource management, geology, or environmental engineering required. An additional four (4) years of experience may substitute for a bachelor's degree.

A minimum of four (4) years’ progressively responsible experience in positions requiring analytical ability, working knowledge of environmental laws and programs, and environmental science; public speaking, written communication, coordination, and troubleshooting is required.

Project and contract management experience with professional consultants is desirable.

Additional Requirements

Knowledge:

Advanced technical understanding of Environmental concepts, methodologies and techniques;
Good understanding of federal, state and local regulatory requirements related to land use, development, and maritime operations.
Must have broad knowledge and training in environmental requirements and issues encompassing local, state, and federal regulatory requirements and permit processes.

Skills:

Proven, effective communication skills, both written and verbal including application of these skills in communicating with elected officials, government agency staff, business customers and in public forums;
Effective interpersonal skills, capable of establishing positive relations based on trust, accessibility and accountability that lead to collegial working relationships with public entities, public and private organizations state and local government municipalities, community organizations, Port staff and Port customers;
Proficient computer skills including the use of Microsoft Office Suite applications and knowledge of digital data management and maintenance practices.

Abilities:

Ability to coordinate, manage, and lead multi-disciplinary teams to evaluate concepts and alternatives;
Ability to function smoothly in a collaborative, team-oriented environment;
Ability to think conceptually, observe and evaluate trends, develop logical conclusions, and prepare comprehensive reports;
Ability for systematic, integrated thinking;
Ability to manage multiple complex projects and varied tasks simultaneously while meeting project objectives and deadlines. Maintains composure while under pressure;
Ability to balance competing interests and facilitate solutions;
Ability to move projects forward with little or no supervision;
Must have a thorough knowledge of project management methods and possess excellent managerial and communication skills;
Must be able to effectively make complex decisions; demonstrate strategic agility; and think globally, looking toward the broadest possible view of an issue;
Must be able to manage diverse elements involved in environmental activities and be able to interface environmental requirements with large multi-component projects;
Must be able to conduct negotiations, demonstrate managerial courage, and manage conflict effectively;
Must be able to build rapport and relate well to all kinds of people, both inside and outside the organization using diplomacy and tact;
Must have experience with contract processes, including the direction and management of consultants.
Must be physically capable of meeting the demands of the position as may be required.

Individual must demonstrate a collaborative style with excellent problem solving and judgment skills coupled with unquestionable integrity. Individual must possess the ability to align with the vision, goals, and constructive culture desired at the Port of Tacoma/NW Seaport Alliance; demonstrate enthusiasm, vitality, and creativity; demonstrate a strong customer service attitude; treats all individuals with courtesy, dignity, and respect; and actively supports and clearly communicates the goals, objectives, and strategies of their individual department.

This individual must demonstrate a caring customer service attitude, a strong commitment to operational excellence, and dedication to the organization’s core values: Integrity & Transparency; Excellence; Adaptability; Stewardship; Teamwork & Partnerships; Health & Safety; and Diversity, Equity & Inclusion. NWSA seeks candidates who will embrace and model these values both internally and externally, and who understand what it means to carry out these values in their everyday work. We value individuals who also bring an impeccable work ethic, honesty, and integrity, and who consistently exhibit enthusiasm, energy, and a drive to succeed.

In accordance with the Immigration Control and Reform Act of 1986, all persons offered employment must provide acceptable proof of identity and authorization to work in the United States. Proof will be required prior to employment.

The successful candidate must possess (or obtain within 30 days of employment) a valid driver's license. Candidate must be able to successfully complete a background investigation. Candidate must also be able to obtain/maintain a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC), which is a program managed by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Information on this program can be viewed here.

THE NORTHWEST SEAPORT ALLIANCE IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER COMMITTED TO PROMOTING AND ENCOURAGING DIVERSITY IN THE WORKPLACE.

Northwest Seaport Alliance

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Environmental Project Manager I