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Environmental Planner Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Stantec

Environmental Planner

Pasadena, CA · On-site

$84K - $122K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Your Opportunity Stantec is seeking two motivated and experienced Environmental Planners to support the delivery of environmental planning and permitting services for a diverse portfolio of ...

Stantec

Environmental Planner

Irvine, CA · On-site

$84K - $122K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

As part of the Southern California Environmental Planning Team, this position may be based in our Pasadena or Irvine offices, and offers the opportunity to collaborate with multidisciplinary teams on ...

Stantec

Environmental Planner

Pasadena, CA · On-site

$84K - $122K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

As part of the Southern California Environmental Planning Team, this position may be based in our Pasadena or Irvine offices, and offers the opportunity to collaborate with multidisciplinary teams on ...

Hanchey

Environmental Planner

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$75K - $97K/yr

Environmental consulting firm in Southern California that provides environmental planning, regulatory permitting, technical studies for biological and cultural resources, and construction mitigation ...

OMS Group

Environmental Planner

Pleasant Hill, CA · On-site

$110K - $160K/yr

The Environmental Planner is a mid-to-senior technical and leadership role responsible for environmental planning, regulatory compliance, permitting, construction-phase oversight, and project ...

Hanchey

Environmental Planner

San Diego, CA · On-site

$74K - $95K/yr

Environmental consulting firm in Southern California that provides environmental planning, regulatory permitting, technical studies for biological and cultural resources, and construction mitigation ...

Hanchey

Environmental Planner

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$72K - $93K/yr

Environmental consulting firm in Southern California that provides environmental planning, regulatory permitting, technical studies for biological and cultural resources, and construction mitigation ...

Dar Group

Environmental Planner

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$95K - $140K/yr

  • Medical

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

As an Environmental Planner, you'll interact directly with clients to help them achieve their environmental documentation goals, develop and implement strategies for project delivery, and work ...

Dar Group

Environmental Planner

Sacramento, CA

$80K - $110K/yr

  • Medical

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

As an Environmental Planner, you'll interact directly with clients to help them achieve their environmental documentation goals, develop and implement strategies for project delivery, and work ...

ManTech

Environmental Planner

Solana Beach, CA · On-site

$45K - $74K/yr

  • Medical

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

MANTECH seeks a motivated, career and customer-oriented Environmental Planner to join our team working in Solana Beach, CA. This is an onsite position. This is a temporary role lasting approximately ...

HDR

Environmental Planner 2

Irvine, CA · On-site

$75K - $96K/yr

Primary Responsibilities The primary duties of the Environmental Planner 2 include working on a wide variety of environmental documentation projects. Conducts environmental research; writes documents ...

HDR

Environmental Planner 2

Irvine, CA · On-site

$75K - $96K/yr

Primary Responsibilities The primary duties of the Environmental Planner 2 include working on a wide variety of environmental documentation projects. Conducts environmental research; writes documents ...

Arcadis

Environmental Planner I

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$75K - $97K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Arcadis is seeking an entry-level Environmental Planner to join our Enviro Socio Permitting team in primarily serving Southern California. The successful candidate will conduct desktop reviews and ...

Arcadis

Environmental Planner I

Irvine, CA · Hybrid

$75K - $96K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Arcadis is seeking an entry-level Environmental Planner to join our Enviro Socio Permitting team in primarily serving Southern California. The successful candidate will conduct desktop reviews and ...

ICF

Principal Environmental Planner

Sacramento, CA · On-site +1

$165K - $180K/yr

Principal Environmental Planner & Project Manager Hybrid or Remote within California Help Shape the Future of California's Infrastructure and Communities At ICF, we don't just navigate environmental ...

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All JobsEnvironmental Planner JobsEnvironmental Planner Jobs in California

Environmental Planner information

See California salary details

$46.4K

$78.8K

$105.6K

How much do environmental planner jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for environmental planner in California is $78,789.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69,100.00 and $88,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an environmental planner do?

An environmental planner is responsible for ensuring that urban and residential development projects comply with environmental codes and laws. As an environmental planner, you are considered an engineering expert who focuses on the sustainability and conservation of natural resources so that these projects make as small of an impact as possible. In this career, you are primarily concerned about compliance with established standards on environmental issues, so you work closely with government agencies such as the EPA and other related departments. You often work out in the field helping developers get the needed environmental permits. Other job duties include writing reports and documentation as part of the project development process.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an environmental planner, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Environmental Planner, you need a solid background in environmental science, urban planning, or a related field, often supported by a relevant degree and experience in regulatory compliance. Familiarity with GIS software, environmental impact assessment tools, and knowledge of environmental laws and permitting processes is essential. Strong communication, analytical thinking, and stakeholder engagement skills help you navigate complex projects and collaborate effectively. These skills ensure that development projects are both environmentally responsible and compliant with regulations, balancing ecological concerns with community needs.

What are some common challenges environmental planners face when balancing development needs with environmental protection?

Environmental Planners often encounter the challenge of finding a compromise between supporting sustainable development and ensuring regulatory compliance for environmental protection. This requires strong negotiation skills, as they must work with developers, government agencies, and community groups with differing priorities. Additionally, Environmental Planners frequently analyze complex data, conduct impact assessments, and manage public input, which can add layers of complexity to decision-making. Successfully navigating these challenges involves clear communication, up-to-date knowledge of environmental laws, and creative problem-solving.

What is the difference between Environmental Planner vs Environmental Scientist?

AspectEnvironmental PlannerEnvironmental Scientist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Environmental Planning, Urban Planning, or related fields; certifications like AICPBachelor's or Master's in Environmental Science, Ecology, or related fields; often requires research experience
Work EnvironmentGovernment agencies, consulting firms, urban development projects; focus on planning and complianceResearch labs, environmental agencies, fieldwork; focus on data collection and analysis
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in urban planning, environmental compliance, and development projectsUsed in environmental research, conservation, and scientific studies

While both roles focus on environmental issues, Environmental Planners primarily develop plans and policies for sustainable development and compliance, whereas Environmental Scientists conduct research and analyze data to understand environmental conditions. Their work often overlaps but serves different purposes within environmental projects.

How much do environmental planners make in the US?

Environmental planners in the US typically earn a median annual salary of around $70,000 to $80,000, with experienced professionals earning over $100,000. Salaries vary based on location, education, experience, and certifications such as LEED or AICP, and the role often involves working with GIS tools and environmental regulations.

What can you do with an environmental planner degree?

An environmental planner degree prepares individuals for roles in land use planning, environmental impact assessment, and sustainable development. Professionals in this field often work for government agencies, consulting firms, or private companies, utilizing skills in GIS, environmental regulations, and project management to develop plans that balance development and conservation goals.

What skills do you need to be an environmental planner?

Environmental planners need strong analytical skills, knowledge of environmental regulations, and proficiency in GIS software. They should also have good communication skills for stakeholder engagement and project documentation, along with a background in environmental science, planning, or related fields. Certifications such as LEED or AICP can enhance job prospects.
More about Environmental Planner jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Environmental Planner jobs in California?

The most popular types of Environmental Planner jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Environmental Planner jobs in California?

For Environmental Planner jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Environmental Planner jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Environmental Planner jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Environmental Planner jobs?

Cities in California with the most Environmental Planner job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Environmental Planner jobs in CA?

For Environmental Planner jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Environmental Planner jobs near you
Infographic showing various Environmental Planner job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $78,789 per year, or $37.9 per hour.

Environmental Planner

Stantec

Pasadena, CA • On-site

$84K - $122K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 2 days ago

Stantec rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 84 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

122nd of 449 rated engineering

Job description


Grounded in safety, quality, and ethics, our experts lead their fields and guide our work with rigor, a creative spirit, and a vision for growth. We draw from more than 20 technical specialties worldwide and are committed to fostering an inclusive community of diverse talents, backgrounds, and expertise. We're a place to apply your passion and collaborate with top environmental talents on work critical to our clients and the communities they support. Join a team that has the environment down to a science.
Your Opportunity
Stantec is seeking two motivated and experienced Environmental Planners to support the delivery of environmental planning and permitting services for a diverse portfolio of infrastructure projects throughout California. Projects may include transportation, power, water, port, and other public and private infrastructure projects.
As part of the Southern California Environmental Planning Team, this position may be based in our Pasadena or Irvine offices, and offers the opportunity to collaborate with multidisciplinary teams on projects that shape communities and support sustainable development.
The ideal candidate has more than 4 years of experience preparing and managing preparation of environmental compliance documents under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and/or the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). The ideal candidate should be capable of independently managing tasks and project components, coordinating with technical specialists and clients, and supporting environmental review processes from project initiation through approval.
Your Key Responsibilities
  • Prepare and manage CEQA and NEPA compliance documents, including Initial Studies, Mitigated Negative Declarations, Environmental Impact Reports, Environmental Assessments, and Environmental Impact Statements.
  • Coordinate with interdisciplinary project teams, technical specialists, agency staff, and clients to support environmental review and permitting efforts.
  • Conduct environmental analyses related to a variety of resource areas and assist in developing impact assessments and mitigation measures.
  • Manage multiple assignments and project schedules simultaneously while maintaining high-quality deliverables and meeting deadlines.
  • Support public outreach and stakeholder engagement activities, including preparation of presentation materials and responses to comments.
  • Assist with project management responsibilities, including scope, schedule, budget tracking, and client communication.
  • Provide guidance and mentorship to junior staff and contribute to the growth of the environmental planning practice.

Qualifications
Your Capabilities and Credentials
  • Bachelor's degree in Environmental Planning, Environmental Studies, Geography, Urban Planning, Biology, Environmental Science, or a related field.
  • Minimum of 4 years of professional experience in environmental planning and CEQA/NEPA compliance.
  • Demonstrated experience preparing and/or managing environmental documentation for infrastructure, transportation, utility, water, energy, or similar projects.
  • Strong technical writing, analytical, and organizational skills.
  • Ability to manage competing priorities and work effectively across multiple projects at various stages of development.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, including experience working with clients, agencies, and multidisciplinary teams.
  • Ability to work independently and to stay on-task while working in a hybrid/remote settings.
  • Master's degree and/or experience with environmental permitting and regulatory compliance is a plus.
  • Must have valid driver's license and a clean MVR.

This description is not a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that may be required of the employee and other duties, responsibilities and activities may be assigned or may be changed at any time with or without notice.
About Stantec
Stantec is a global leader in sustainable engineering, architecture, and environmental consulting. The diverse perspectives of our partners and interested parties drive us to think beyond what's previously been done on critical issues like climate change, digital transformation, and future-proofing our cities and infrastructure. We innovate at the intersection of community, creativity, and client relationships to advance communities everywhere, so that together we can redefine what's possible.
#StayInquisitive
About the Team
Pay Transparency: In compliance with pay transparency laws, pay ranges are provided for positions in locations where required. Please note, the final agreed upon compensation is based on individual education, qualifications, experience, and work location. At Stantec certain roles are bonus eligible. Actual compensation for part-time roles will be pro-rated based on the agreed number of working hours per week.
Benefits Summary: Regular full-time and part-time employees (working at least 20 hours per week) have access to medical, dental, and vision plans, a wellness program, health saving accounts, flexible spending accounts, 401(k) plan, employee stock purchase program, life and accidental death & dismemberment (AD&D) insurance, short-term/long-term disability plans, emergency travel benefits, tuition reimbursement, professional membership fee coverage and paid family leave. Regular full-time and part-time employees will receive ten paid holidays in each calendar year. In addition, employees will be eligible to accrue vacation between 10 and 20 days per year and eligible for paid sick leave (and if more generous, in accordance with state and local law).
Temporary/casual employees have access to 401(k) plans, employee stock purchase program, and paid leave, in accordance with state and local law.
The benefits information listed above may not apply to union positions because benefits for such positions are governed by applicable collective bargaining agreements

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