Recruiter's Glossary

Examples: LCA • Hazmat • Phase II ESA

Section 404 Permit

Term from Environmental Consulting industry explained for recruiters

A Section 404 Permit is a required government approval that environmental professionals help obtain when projects might affect water resources like wetlands, streams, or lakes. It's named after Section 404 of the Clean Water Act, which is a major environmental law. Think of it like getting permission from the government before building anything that could impact water areas. Environmental consultants often work with clients to prepare these permit applications, coordinate with government agencies (mainly the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers), and ensure projects follow environmental rules.

Examples in Resumes

Successfully obtained Section 404 Permit approval for 15 construction projects

Managed 404 Permit applications and coordination with Army Corps of Engineers

Led wetland delineation studies for Section 404 compliance

Prepared Clean Water Act Section 404 documentation for transportation projects

Typical job title: "Environmental Permit Specialists"

Also try searching for:

Environmental Consultant Wetland Specialist Environmental Compliance Specialist Regulatory Specialist Environmental Project Manager Permitting Coordinator Environmental Scientist

Where to Find Environmental Permit Specialists

Professional Organizations

Government Resources

Professional Networks

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you handle a complex Section 404 Permit that involves multiple stakeholders and sensitive environmental areas?

Expected Answer: A senior candidate should discuss experience managing large projects, coordinating between government agencies, clients, and other stakeholders. They should mention strategies for addressing challenging environmental issues and navigating the permitting process efficiently.

Q: Tell me about a time when you had to negotiate permit conditions with regulatory agencies.

Expected Answer: Look for answers showing experience in working with agencies like the Army Corps of Engineers, ability to find creative solutions that satisfy both client needs and regulatory requirements, and understanding of how to maintain good agency relationships.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What are the key components of a Section 404 Permit application?

Expected Answer: Candidate should mention project description, alternatives analysis, impact assessment, mitigation plans, and public notice requirements. They should understand the basic application process and timeline.

Q: How do you determine if a project needs a Section 404 Permit?

Expected Answer: Look for understanding of what constitutes waters of the United States, ability to identify potential impacts to wetlands or waterways, and knowledge of different permit types (nationwide vs individual permits).

Junior Level Questions

Q: What is the purpose of Section 404 of the Clean Water Act?

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate basic understanding that it regulates the discharge of dredged or fill material into waters of the United States, including wetlands, and requires permits for certain activities.

Q: What role does wetland delineation play in the Section 404 permitting process?

Expected Answer: Should explain that wetland delineation identifies and maps wetland boundaries to determine if a permit is needed and what areas might be impacted by the project.