Permitting Specialist (Data Centers)

ABOUT xAI

xAI’s mission is to create AI systems that can accurately understand the universe and aid humanity in its pursuit of knowledge. Our team is small, highly motivated, and focused on engineering excellence. This organization is for individuals who appreciate challenging themselves and thrive on curiosity. We operate with a flat organizational structure. All employees are expected to be hands-on and to contribute directly to the company’s mission. Leadership is given to those who show initiative and consistently deliver excellence. Work ethic and strong prioritization skills are important. All employees are expected to have strong communication skills. They should be able to concisely and accurately share knowledge with their teammates.

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.

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