xAI· Data Center· Memphis, TN
Permitting Specialist (Data Centers)
Classified Tasks (25)
Automate 0%Augment 80%Human-Only 20%
Augment (20)
AI assists, human decides
Lead preparation, submission, and tracking of permitting applications for data center construction, expansion, and power systems
operational
Prepare, submit, and track TDLR project registrations
administrative
Prepare, submit, and track TCEQ air permits and water permits
technical
Prepare, submit, and track zoning and special use permit (SUP) approvals
operational
Prepare, submit, and track building permit applications
administrative
Secure and manage zoning permits, environmental permits, building permits, air quality permits, water permits, and energy-related permits for high-density data centers and on-site generation projects
operational
Manage Texas-specific permitting processes to qualify data center certifications for tax incentives
operational
Provide ERCOT interconnection support for power infrastructure projects
technical
Manage environmental compliance activities including NSR, Title V, and stormwater permitting processes
operational
Coordinate with mechanical, electrical, thermal, and gas pipeline teams to compile technical documentation, drawings, and studies required for permit applications
communication
Compile and assemble technical reports, engineering drawings, emissions inventories, and other studies for permit submittals
technical
Conduct regulatory due diligence for new site acquisitions
analytical
Perform gap analyses comparing site conditions to regulatory and permitting requirements
analytical
Develop permitting strategies and timelines aligned with aggressive project schedules
leadership
Track permit conditions, compliance obligations, and renewal requirements for construction and operations
administrative
Support regulatory audits and prepare documentation for audit reviews
administrative
Prepare and submit compliance reporting to regulatory agencies
administrative
Monitor evolving regulations (e.g., state air quality rules, water usage laws, Texas Senate Bill 6) and track changes affecting permits
analytical
Prepare presentations for internal stakeholders, public meetings, and regulatory briefings
communication
Support permitting for Memphis operations and plan permitting for potential future expansions
operational
Human-Only (5)
Requires human judgment
Build and maintain relationships with regulatory agencies, municipalities, consultants, and stakeholders in Texas and Tennessee to expedite reviews
communication
Expedite regulatory reviews and resolve permitting issues with agencies and municipalities
operational
Advise leadership on regulatory risks and develop mitigation strategies for permitting and compliance issues
leadership
Respond to public comments related to permitting actions and environmental reviews
communication
Support public hearings, variance requests, and permit appeals as needed
communication
Job description
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, C