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Environmental Planner Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

Environmental Planner I

Raleigh, NC ยท On-site

$61K - $79K/yr

Job Title Environmental Planner I Job Type Full-Time Location Raleigh - Raleigh, NC 27607 US (Primary) Education Bachelor's Degree McCormick Taylor, Inc. is a full-service professional services ...

Environmental Planner I

Raleigh, NC ยท Hybrid

$61K - $79K/yr

Position Summary McCormick Taylor has an immediate opening for an entry-level Environmental Planner I in our Raleigh, NC office to support our North Carolina transportation market. The ideal ...

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Environmental Planner information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$45.7K

$77.6K

$104K

How much do environmental planner jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for environmental planner in Raleigh, NC is $77,601.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $68,000.00 and $87,500.00 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 Raleigh, NC?

The most popular types of Environmental Planner jobs in Raleigh, NC are:

What job categories do people searching Environmental Planner jobs in Raleigh, NC look for?

The top searched job categories for Environmental Planner jobs in Raleigh, NC are:

What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Environmental Planner jobs?

Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Environmental Planner job openings:

Infographic showing various Environmental Planner job openings in Raleigh, NC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $77,601 per year, or $37.3 per hour.

Environmental Planner I

McCormick Taylor

Raleigh, NC โ€ข On-site

$61K - $79K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision

Re-posted 29 days ago


Job description

Job Title
Environmental Planner I
Job Type
Full-Time
Location
Raleigh - Raleigh, NC 27607 US (Primary)
Education
Bachelor's Degree
Job Description
McCormick Taylor, Inc. is a full-service professional services consulting firm providing creative design, planning, and environmental solutions to the challenges of everyday life. Since 1946, we've focused on our relationships with people-our employees, our clients, and the communities we serve. Our company culture matters because our people matter. We strive to create pathways for career advancement that suit the individual. We embrace the cultural shift toward a greater work-life balance.
Position Summary
McCormick Taylor has an immediate opening for an entry-level Environmental Planner I in our Raleigh, NC office to support our North Carolina transportation market. The ideal candidate will thrive in a collaborative team environment working on projects of varying complexities for a variety of clients. We are seeking an individual who is passionate about transportation and communities. Work will be in a hybrid remote/office environment. Strong written, interpersonal and oral communication skills, attention to detail and ability to organize is required.
Job Requirements
Responsibilities
  • Work with an interdisciplinary team to complete environmental planning studies for a variety of transportation projects for NCDOT and municipalities
  • Support the drafting of purpose and need statements
  • Assist with environmental studies and draft documentation for compliance with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), Section 4(f), Section 6(f), and other state and federal environmental requirements
  • Support public involvement activities
  • Conduct background research to complete feasibility studies

Qualifications
  • Bachelor's Degree in environmental studies, planning, or related field
  • 0-4 years of experience in the preparation NEPA documentation for transportation projects basic knowledge of other related environmental laws/policy including Section 4(f), Section 6(f), and Section 106
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills
  • Ability to work independently as well as in multi-disciplinary teams
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office 365 Suite
  • Must process a valid North Carolina driver's license to travel to various project locations and meetings

We value your interest in our organization! At McCormick Taylor, our people are our greatest asset. If you join us, we hope for the opportunity to grow and succeed together. We offer an unparalleled, comprehensive benefits package-including no-deductible medical plans, free vision and dental plans, programs to enhance work-life balance, and flexible and hybrid work schedules.
McCormick Taylor is an Equal Opportunity Employer that strongly supports and celebrates the unique backgrounds of all of our employees and our applicants. Our commitment to inclusion spans age, race, gender identity, sexual orientation, nationality, religion, and physical and mental ability. Our focus is on building a culture that promotes, supports, and values the diverse backgrounds and voices of our employees so that everyone feels welcome and can succeed. We strive to build a diverse workforce that is representative of the communities we serve.