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Environmental Planner Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

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

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 ...

Environmental Planner II

Mankato, MN · Hybrid

$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

Duluth, MN · Hybrid

$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

Rochester, MN · Hybrid

$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 ...

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 ...

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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 9, 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 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 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 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 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 management abilities to coordinate planning efforts effectively.

How much do environmental planners make in the US?

Environmental planners in the US typically earn a median annual salary of around $70,000, with salaries ranging from approximately $50,000 to over $100,000 depending on experience, education, and location. Professionals often hold a bachelor's degree in environmental planning, environmental science, or related fields, and may pursue certifications to enhance their earning potential.

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.

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 100% Full Time. Highlights an 75% In-person, and 25% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $78,191 per year, or $37.6 per hour.

Environmental Planner II

Bolton & Menk, Inc.

Burnsville, MN • On-site

$75K - $106K/yr

Other

Medical, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 15 days ago


Bolton & Menk rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

67th of 446 rated engineering


Job description

Description

Bolton & Menk has an exciting opportunity for an Environmental Planner II to join our team. As a Top Workplace, this is a fantastic chance to work with a talented team of professionals and make a lasting impact on the communities we serve. With over 75 years of experience, Bolton & Menk specializes in providing community infrastructure solutions across the Midwest, Southeast, and beyond.


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, remain curious, and takes ownership of their work while engaging with a collaborative team to both lead and support environmental planning projects. This position could be located out of any of our Midwest locations with the
ability to work a hybrid schedule.


What You Will Be Doing:


  • Support projects involving federal and state environmental reviews, including NEPA, MEPA, and related special-purpose laws.
  • Assist with infrastructure and corridor planning, sustainability and climate resilience assessments, and environmental compliance reviews.
  • Contribute to environmental assessments, alternatives analysis, infrastructure and transportation planning, and policy research that supports long-term community and infrastructure resilience.
  • Coordinate with natural resources, cultural resources, water resources, engineering, and community planning teams to support integrated project delivery.
  • Support parks and trail system planning, environmental documentation, and natural and cultural resource coordination.
  • Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams on complex, multi-agency projects that require strong communication, organization, and technical judgment.
  • Provide valuable contributions to our growing environmental planning team, including supporting team development and contributing to a strong, collaborative practice.
  • Travel to project sites, client meetings, and other project-related locations as needed.

What We Are Looking For:


  • Bachelor's degree in a relevant field (e.g. Environmental Planning, Environmental Science, Natural Resources, Urban/Regional Planning or similar) with 5+ years of progressive environmental planning/policy experience, or a Master's degree in a related field with 3+ years of experience, or an equivalent combination of education and professional experience.
  • Certification as an American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) or Certified Environmental Professional (CEP) preferred, but not required
  • Knowledge and prior experience with environmental review and documentation, as it pertains to compliance with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and Minnesota Environmental Policy Act (MEPA) preferred
  • Experienced in working with local, state, and federal regulatory agencies and stakeholders on projects
  • Experienced in simplifying complex technical and regulatory information for diverse audiences.
  • Experience writing and reviewing technical reports, including federal Categorical Exclusions, Environmental Assessments, and Environmental Impacts Statements
  • Strong skills in client needs assessment, meeting quality standards for service, and evaluation of client satisfaction.
  • Possess a valid driver's license as travel to various facilities and job sites may be required.

Bolton & Menk will currently not be providing visa sponsorship or Optional Practical Training Extensions for STEM Students. Individuals must be legally authorized to work in the US at the start of employment without a need for current or future visa sponsorship.


Salary Range: $75,000 - $106,000 depending on years of experience and credentials


Bolton & Menk is providing the compensation range that the company in good faith believes it might pay and offer for this position, based on the successful applicant's education, experience, knowledge, skills, abilities in addition to specific geographic location. Bolton & Menk reserves the right to ultimately pay more or less than the posted range and offer additional benefits and other compensation, depending on circumstances not related to an applicant's sex or other status protected by local, state, and/or federal law.


Supporting Our Employees


There's life at work and life outside of work. Bolton & Menk has a number of benefit programs and amenities to support you and your family throughout whatever stage of life you are in.


Benefits:


  • Competitive compensation plan - overtime compensation available to most employees
  • Discretionary bonuses available to most employees
  • ESOP - Employee ownership (ESOP); 100% company-paid contributions
  • 401(k) Match Program
  • Paid time off (PTO)
  • Volunteer Time Off (VTO)
  • Six paid company holidays
  • Two floating personal holidays for events that are important in your life
  • Tuition reimbursement
  • Parental leave
  • Short-term and long-term disability
  • Dependent care reimbursement
  • Employee assistance program
  • Health insurance
  • Flexible spending account
  • Life insurance
  • Vision insurance

WHY BOLTON & MENK?
Bolton & Menk, Inc. specializes in providing community infrastructure solutions. Since 1949, we have been committed to improving quality of life through engineering excellence and client satisfaction. From advocating for our communities to designing their dreams to finding funding; we take pride in our work because we live in these same communities. Today, Bolton & Menk has more than 1,000 employees throughout more than 40 locations in Minnesota, Iowa, North Dakota, Wisconsin, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Colorado providing services to more than 400 communities and agencies. Learn more about our history here: https://www.bolton-menk.com/about-us/


OUR BENEFITS
At Bolton & Menk, we value our people and provide an exceptional Total Compensation and Benefits Package to protect our most valuable asset. We are committed to the well-being of our employees and their families. Perks of being a Bolton & Menk employee include peace of mind with our benefits package and competitive compensation plan, flexible schedules, and career development opportunities. Learn more here: https://www.bolton-menk.com/careers


We thank all applicants in advance for their interest in this position, however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.


Bolton & Menk does not accept unsolicited resumes from individual recruiters or third-party agencies in response to Bolton & Menk job postings. No fee will be paid to third parties who submit unsolicited candidates directly to our hiring managers. Pre-approval from the Bolton & Menk Talent Acquisition team is required before any external candidate can be submitted and such candidate must be submitted to the Bolton & Menk Talent Acquisition team.


It is our responsibility and privilege to embrace the diversity of people, thoughts, and experiences necessary to develop infrastructure systems that serve all people. Bolton & Menk, Inc., is an Equal Employment Opportunity / Affirmative Action Employer including disability and vets.


Qualifications

Licenses & Certifications
AICP - Certified Planner (preferred)

Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.


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