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Environmental Planner Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Sr Environmental Planner

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

$126K - $248K/yr

Under minimal direction, performs a variety of more highly complex professional planning, environmental planning, landscape architecture and urban design project responsibilities, and leads technical ...

Under minimal direction, performs a variety of more highly complex professional planning, environmental planning, landscape architecture and urban design project responsibilities, and leads technical ...

Bachelor's Degree in Landscape Architecture, Planning, Environmental Planning, Urban Design, Architecture, Engineering, Urban Planning, Geography, or related field and 12 years related experience, or

Showing results 21-40

Environmental Planner information

See Minnesota salary details

$46K

$78.2K

$104.8K

How much do environmental planner jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 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.

Lead Environmental Planner

Apex Engineering Group

Saint Cloud, MN • On-site

$69K - $89K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 14 days ago


Job description

Office Location: Any Apex Office (Fargo, Bismarck, Dickinson, Minot, ND or Detroit Lakes, St. Cloud, Minnetonka, MN) / Remote Location also considered
The location of this position is flexible and can be performed from any of our Apex offices or remotely within 100 miles of our ND Offices. The candidate will be expected to attend in person key business, client, and project related meetings, including personnel meetings if they are a direct supervisor. This person will report directly to the Transportation Sector Leader. This position is considered a strategic hire and will provide an opportunity to build an environmental team by expanding services to public and private clients. Key responsibilities will include being involved with technical work for transportation and water projects requiring NEPA documentation, threatened and endangered species assessments, public agency coordination, permitting, and wetland delineation/mitigation. This position will also require participating in the development of new opportunities, prepare effective technical proposals and active collaboration on projects with other project managers.
Essential Tasks and Duties:
  • Preparing NEPA documentation for projects including Environmental Assessments, Environmental Impact Statements and Categorical Exclusions.
  • Participate in business development and marketing activities related to environmental work with existing clients and potential new clients.
  • Prepares technical proposals for project pursuits with other project managers and market leaders.
  • Contributes to project pursuit efforts by participating in interviews for specific projects that have a heavy need for environmental planning.
  • Preparing permits related to the Clean Water Act Sections 10/404 (Corps) and 401 Water Quality Certifications and USFWS Section 7 Consultation.
  • Review field and office wetland delineations and review jurisdictional determinations by agencies.
  • Participate in transportation team, management, and company staff meetings and seminars when appropriate.
  • Assists with the development of budgets for planning work.
  • Responsible for hiring and recruiting other environmental staff as needed and approved by the Sector Leader.
  • Effective communication skills with the public will be required in settings such as public meetings, informational meetings, construction notifications, etc.
  • This position will require the initiative to think independently and make rational judgment calls.
  • Understand and follow company employee handbook and mandated safety policies.
  • Perform responsibilities in a conscientious, legal and ethical manner with a strong attention to detail.
  • Must be able to work independently and in a team environment.
  • Participate in professional organizations and community leadership programs.
  • Travel and out of town stays may be required; may work overtime especially during deadlines for submittals.
  • Other duties as assigned.
Qualifications:
  • A Bachelor's degree in planning, natural resource management, environmental science, biological science, ecology or related field.
  • 5+ years of environmental planning and permitting experience requiring knowledge with NEPA document preparation and environmental permitting.
  • Experience with transportation projects and public agencies located in North Dakota and Minnesota is preferred.
  • Specialized experience authoring Environmental Assessments and Environmental Impact Statements is preferred.
  • Proficient using Microsoft Windows/Office products (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint).
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills required.
  • Must be detail orientated, self-motivated with strong interpersonal and organizational skills.
  • A valid driver's license is required or the ability to obtain one.
Physical Requirements:
  • Ability to operate a computer under normal ergonomic office conditions.
  • Required to occasionally work in an outdoors environment.
  • Required to lift and move up to 10 pounds and occasionally lift and move up to 50 pounds.
  • Must work scheduled hours in the office or onsite for projects.
  • To perform this job successfully, and individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements described here are representative of the knowledge, skill and/or ability required. Reasonable accomodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Benefits:
We're looking for experience, entrepreneurs and enthusiasm. Apex Engineering Group believes that every employee plays an important role in our company's success and that is why we strive to provide our employees with a benefits program that rewards them for their hard work and dedication they put forth everyday.
We offer a competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package, which includes:
  1. Performance-based bonuses
  2. Health, dental, and vision insurance
  3. Life insurance
  4. 401(k) plan with employer match and profit-sharing contribution
  5. Paid parental leave
  6. Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) and Health Savings Accounts (HSAs)
  7. Paid time off
  8. Short- and long-term disability coverage
  9. Employee wellness program

Base Salary Pay Range: $90k - $130k (Actual base pay is dependent on several factors, including experience, education, licensure, job location, and internal equity.)
EOE/AA
Please email [email protected] with any questions.