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Entry Level Nepa Planner Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

ICF International, Inc.

Noise Specialist

Irvine, CA · On-site

The position is available for entry level candidates, or for professionals with 1-3 years of ... Our southern California offices provide environmental planning, transportation, and energy-related ...

ICF

Noise Specialist

Irvine, CA · On-site +1

The position is available for entry level candidates, or for professionals with 1-3 years of ... Our southern California offices provide environmental planning, transportation, and energy-related ...

All JobsNepa Planner JobsEntry Level Nepa Planner JobsEntry Level Nepa Planner Jobs in Riverside, CA

Entry Level Nepa Planner information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$34.4K

$72.6K

$117.9K

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

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level nepa planner in Riverside, CA is $72,602.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $56,300.00 and $84,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level NEPA planner?

Entry Level NEPA Planners are professionals who assist in the review and preparation of environmental documents required by the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). They typically work with senior planners and project managers to gather data, analyze environmental impacts, and ensure that projects comply with NEPA regulations. Their responsibilities often include conducting research, preparing reports, and helping facilitate public involvement in the environmental review process. This role is ideal for recent graduates or those new to environmental planning, providing foundational experience in environmental compliance and project management.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level NEPA planner?

To thrive as an Entry Level NEPA Planner, you need a foundational understanding of environmental regulations, research skills, and a relevant degree in environmental science, planning, or a related field. Familiarity with NEPA documentation, GIS software, and project management tools is often required. Strong written communication, attention to detail, and collaboration are crucial soft skills for preparing reports and coordinating with stakeholders. These skills ensure compliance with environmental laws while facilitating effective project planning and stakeholder engagement.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level NEPA planners and how can they be addressed?

Entry-level NEPA Planners often face challenges in understanding the complexities of environmental regulations and ensuring compliance with federal, state, and local laws. Navigating large volumes of technical documents and coordinating input from multiple stakeholders—such as engineers, biologists, and government agencies—can be demanding. To overcome these challenges, new planners should seek mentorship from experienced colleagues, take advantage of training opportunities, and develop strong organizational and communication skills. Building a solid foundation in environmental policy and project management will also help ease the transition into the role.

What is the difference between Entry Level Nepa Planner vs Entry Level Urban Planner?

AspectEntry Level Nepa PlannerEntry Level Urban Planner
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Planning, Environmental Science, or related field; familiarity with NEPA regulationsBachelor's in Urban Planning, Geography, or related field; knowledge of city development policies
Work EnvironmentEnvironmental agencies, consulting firms, government departmentsMunicipalities, urban planning firms, government agencies
Industry UsagePrimarily in environmental impact assessments and compliance

Entry Level Nepa Planners focus on environmental impact assessments and NEPA compliance, often working in environmental agencies or consulting firms. Entry Level Urban Planners concentrate on city development and land use planning within municipal or urban settings. While both roles require planning degrees, NEPA Planners emphasize environmental regulations, whereas Urban Planners focus on urban development policies.

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Nepa Planner jobs in Riverside, CA?

For Entry Level Nepa Planner jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Nepa Planner jobs in Riverside, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Nepa Planner jobs in Riverside, CA are:

What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Entry Level Nepa Planner jobs?

Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Entry Level Nepa Planner job openings:

Entry Level Nepa Planner jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Nepa Planner job openings in Riverside, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $72,602 per year, or $34.9 per hour.

Intern - Environmental

Transportation Corridor Agencies

Irvine, CA • On-site

$18.50 - $22/hr

Other

Re-posted 2 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.

Apply