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Environmental Planner Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Environmental Planner

Plymouth, MN · On-site

$85K - $124K/yr

Your Opportunity Stantec is seeking an Environmental Planner in our Plymouth, MN office. In this role, one would lead multidisciplinary teams in delivering technically compliant state and federal ...

New

Environmental Planner II

Duluth, MN · On-site

$75K - $106K/yr

We are looking to add an Environmental Planner II who will help foster our mission that All People Should Live in Safe, Sustainable and Beautiful Communities who can demonstrate professionalism ...

We are looking to add an Environmental Planner II who will help foster our mission that All People Should Live in Safe, Sustainable and Beautiful Communities who can demonstrate professionalism ...

Environmental Planner II

Mankato, MN · On-site

$75K - $106K/yr

We are looking to add an Environmental Planner II who will help foster our mission that All People Should Live in Safe, Sustainable and Beautiful Communities who can demonstrate professionalism ...

Environmental Planner II

Mankato, MN · On-site

$75K - $106K/yr

We are looking to add an Environmental Planner II who will help foster our mission that All People Should Live in Safe, Sustainable and Beautiful Communities who can demonstrate professionalism ...

We are looking to add an Environmental Planner II who will help foster our mission that All People Should Live in Safe, Sustainable and Beautiful Communities who can demonstrate professionalism ...

Environmental Planner II

Plymouth, MN · On-site

$75K - $106K/yr

We are looking to add an Environmental Planner II who will help foster our mission that All People Should Live in Safe, Sustainable and Beautiful Communities who can demonstrate professionalism ...

Environmental Planner II

Oakdale, MN · On-site

$75K - $106K/yr

We are looking to add an Environmental Planner II who will help foster our mission that All People Should Live in Safe, Sustainable and Beautiful Communities who can demonstrate professionalism ...

Environmental Planner II

Plymouth, MN · On-site

$75K - $106K/yr

We are looking to add an Environmental Planner II who will help foster our mission that All People Should Live in Safe, Sustainable and Beautiful Communities who can demonstrate professionalism ...

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Environmental Planner information

See Minnesota salary details

$46K

$78.2K

$104.8K

How much do environmental planner jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for environmental planner in Minnesota is $78,191.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $68,600.00 and $88,100.00 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.

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

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

What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Environmental Planner jobs?

Cities in Minnesota with the most Environmental Planner job openings:

Infographic showing various Environmental Planner job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $78,191 per year, or $37.6 per hour.

Environmental Planner

Stantec

Plymouth, MN • On-site

$85K - $124K/yr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

New


Stantec rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 84 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

123rd of 450 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 vision for growth. We draw from more than 20 technical specialties around the globe 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 that's 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 an Environmental Planner in our Plymouth, MN office. In this role, one would lead multidisciplinary teams in delivering technically compliant state and federal environmental review services for a variety of client projects. Our variety of projects and clients is what keeps our work interesting and fulfilling, while being dedicated to serving our clients and our communities. Markets Stantec serves include, but are not limited to, mixed-use (commercial/residential) development/redevelopment, industrial, mining, transportation, and power and energy.
Your Key Responsibilities
  • State of Minnesota (MEPA) and federal National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) project management and/or task management on behalf of clients for actions requiring state Environmental Assessment Worksheets (EAWs), Alternative Urban Areawide Review (AUAR), or federal Categorical Exclusion (CATEX) review, documentation and process. Also, similar for Environmental Impact Statement, (EIS) and federal EIS's.
  • State and federal agency coordination and consultation, guidance, technical writing, and oversight and serve as an advisor to our clients in the application of environmental review requirements for proposed actions that have the potential to affect the environment. This includes (1) developing plans, schedules, and budgets for conducting technical studies and environmental reviews; (2) organizing and managing teams of technical specialists to conduct the reviews and preparing the required state or federal environmental review document; (3) publishing and distributing environmental review documents according to the project and regulatory governed schedule; and, (4) organizing and conducting public and other stakeholder engagement as needed, including public meetings.
  • Manage multiple projects simultaneously within scope/budget/schedule expectations and ensure quality standards on project deliverables.
  • Define and manage project objective, scope, schedule, budget, profit, contracts, subcontracts and multi-disciplinary project teams to ensure client and project team satisfaction.
  • Ensure client and regulator satisfaction via appropriate facilitation, negotiation, and issues resolution.
  • Interact with and develop excellent relations with clients, regulators and stakeholders.
  • Ensure quality assurance/quality control (QA/QC) and Health and Safety (H&S) requirements and procedures are identified and followed throughout a project's life cycle.
  • Develop a working understanding of Stantec's other consulting practice areas and actively support cross-selling other services to existing clients.
  • Assist with business development for prospective clients including, but not limited to, developing relationships and preparing proposals.
  • Technical work, review of reports and proposals and presentations.
  • Mentor early career team members.

Qualifications
Your Capabilities and Credentials
  • Excellent leadership, communication, organizational and mentoring skills.
  • Effective interpersonal skills and ability to communicate complex issues to clients, regulators, and stakeholders.
  • History of relevant professional development.
  • Proven and demonstrated high quality technical writing skills.
  • Experience in or a solid understanding of the consulting industry in a multidisciplinary environment.
  • Able to work independently as well as part of a team.
  • Must have strong oral and written communication skills, and be customer focused to understand and appropriately respond to client's business needs.
  • Must demonstrate effective resource planning, results delivery, and staying current with environmental review regulation and requirements.
  • Able to meet deadlines.
  • Able to travel regionally and as needed, have occasional overnight trips.
  • Proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint; GIS a plus.
  • Must have a good driving record and valid driver's license.

Education and Experience
  • Bachelor's degree or equivalent in Environmental Planning, Science, or related field. Minimum of five (5) years of experience in either or both Minnesota and NEPA environmental review, environmental studies, and project management.

Office environment with prolonged sitting and computer work, or combination of office and field. Ability to lift and move items and equipment up to 50 lbs.
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.
Stantec is a place where the best and brightest come to build on each other's talents, do exciting work, and make an impact on the world around us. Join us and redefine your personal best.

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