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Entry Level Nepa Environmental Jobs in Riverside, CA

Environmental Planner I

Irvine, CA · On-site

$35 - $45/hr

Bachelor's degree in environmental sciences, natural resources, planning, or related fields, advanced degree a plus. * Entry Level role. Three (3) years of experience preparing CEQA/NEPA documents ...

Entry Level Nepa Environmental information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$43.3K

$95.4K

$144K

How much do entry level nepa environmental jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level nepa environmental in Riverside, CA is $95,381.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $72,000.00 and $121,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level NEPA Environmental Specialist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level NEPA Environmental Specialist, you typically need a bachelor's degree in environmental science, biology, or a related field, along with foundational knowledge of environmental laws and regulations such as the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). Familiarity with technical tools like GIS mapping software, data analysis programs, and report-writing templates is important for conducting assessments and preparing documentation. Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and effective written and verbal communication set standout candidates apart. These skills ensure accurate compliance with regulations, thorough environmental assessments, and clear communication with stakeholders.

What are entry level NEPA Environmental jobs?

Entry level NEPA Environmental jobs involve assisting with the preparation and review of environmental documents to ensure compliance with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). Professionals in these roles help conduct environmental assessments, collect and analyze data, prepare reports, and support senior staff in evaluating the environmental impacts of proposed projects. These positions are ideal for recent graduates or those with limited experience who are interested in environmental science, policy, or planning. Strong communication, research, and organizational skills are typically required.

What is the difference between Entry Level Nepa Environmental vs Entry Level Environmental Technician?

AspectEntry Level Nepa EnvironmentalEntry Level Environmental Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma; some roles may prefer environmental certificationsHigh school diploma; often requires environmental or technical certifications
Work EnvironmentFieldwork, site assessments, regulatory complianceField and laboratory work, data collection, site inspections
Industry UsageUsed in environmental impact assessments, regulatory filingsCommon in environmental monitoring, remediation projects

Both roles involve environmental data collection and compliance, but Entry Level Nepa Environmental focuses more on NEPA-specific assessments and documentation, while Entry Level Environmental Technician emphasizes field sampling and data analysis. Understanding these differences helps job seekers target the right position based on their skills and career goals.

What are some common challenges faced by entry-level professionals working in NEPA environmental roles, and how can they be addressed?

Entry-level NEPA (National Environmental Policy Act) environmental professionals often face the challenge of interpreting complex federal regulations and ensuring compliance in documentation and project planning. Another frequent hurdle is balancing multiple project timelines while collaborating with interdisciplinary teams, including engineers, planners, and legal experts. To address these challenges, it's important to proactively seek mentorship, participate in ongoing training, and develop strong organizational and communication skills. Leveraging resources such as internal knowledge bases and attending NEPA-related workshops can also help build confidence and expertise.
What are the most commonly searched types of Nepa Environmental jobs in Riverside, CA? The most popular types of Nepa Environmental jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Nepa Environmental jobs in Riverside, CA? For Entry Level Nepa Environmental jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Entry Level Nepa Environmental jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Entry Level Nepa Environmental job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Nepa Environmental job openings in Riverside, CA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, and 13% Part Time. Highlights an 91% In-person, and 9% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $95,381 per year, or $45.9 per hour.
Intern - Environmental

$18.50 - $22/hr

Other

Re-posted 12 days ago


Job description

Pa­id Internship Opportunity - Environmental Internship

TCA is accepting applications for undergraduate and/or graduate students for a paid internship within the Environmental Planning / Environmental Department. If you want to apply your education, knowledge and abilities in the workplace, see below for details.

About Us

The Transportation Corridor Agencies (TCA) is a public agency responsible for planning, financing, constructing and operating California’s largest toll road network. The 51-mile public toll road network, which includes State Routes 73, 133, 241 and 261, are owned by Caltrans, financed with private funds, and built with virtually no tax dollars. In addition to providing regional mobility solutions that reduce congestion, TCA maintains a strong environmental commitment, having conserved and restored more than 2,100 acres of open space and wildlife habitat across 17 mitigation sites in Orange County. Funded by toll revenues, TCA has invested over $100 million in environmental initiatives that protect ecosystems and support long‑term habitat preservation.

Examples of Duties/Types of Projects

  • Assist environmental staff with environmental planning, compliance, and permitting activities
  • Support preparation, review, and organization of CEQA/NEPA documents, technical studies, and permit materials
  • Assist with tracking and documenting mitigation measures and environmental commitments
  • Conduct environmental research, data collection, and basic analysis under staff direction
  • Prepare reports, summaries, and presentations for internal use
  • Support coordination with engineering, construction, consultants, and regulatory agencies
  • Participate in meetings, site visits, and occasional field inspections, as appropriate
  • Maintain organized project files and environmental records

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

  • Basic understanding of environmental planning principles, regulations, or natural resource topics
  • Familiarity with CEQA, NEPA, or permitting processes is desirable
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills
  • Ability to organize information, manage multiple tasks, and meet deadlines
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, SharePoint, and PowerPoint)
  • Familiarity with GIS or data analysis tools is a plus
  • Detail-oriented, dependable, and eager to learn in a professional environment
  • Ability to perform entry-level environmental planning or analysis work

Education and Experience Required

Must be a student or graduate student attending an accredited college or university with a minimum GPA of 2.5, majoring in Environmental Science, Environmental Planning, Environmental Studies, Urban Planning, Biology, Geography, or a closely related field.

No prior professional experience is required.

Working Conditions

Duties are generally performed in an office environment, with occasional field exposure related to environmental site visits or inspections. Physical activity is typically light, with occasional lifting of materials not to exceed 20 pounds. Approximately 20 hours per week.

Pay

Undergraduate interns are eligible for an hourly pay rate of $18.50 an hour. Graduate interns are eligible for an hourly pay rate of $22.00.

How to Apply

Submit your resume by May 17, 2026 for first consideration.


It is the policy of TCA to provide equal employment opportunity (EEO) to all persons regardless of race, color, religion, national origin, creed, age, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, genetic information, marital or veteran status, disability, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law. In addition, TCA will provide reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities.