1

Environmental Planner Jobs in Rochester, NY (NOW HIRING)

Buyer & Planner

Avon, NY · On-site

$55K - $80K/yr

Focus Factory Buyer/Planner Location: Avon, NY Department: Operations / Manufacturing Reports to ... Ability to work cross-functionally in a fast-paced manufacturing environment Preferred ...

Buyer & Planner

Avon, NY

$52K - $72K/yr

Focus Factory Buyer/Planner Location: Avon, NY Department: Operations / Manufacturing Reports to ... Ability to work cross-functionally in a fast-paced manufacturing environment Preferred ...

Minimum 5 years of professional experience in Environmental Management, compliance, SWPPP inspection and mitigation planning * Minimum 1 year of professional industry experience in utilities and/or ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Environmental Planner information

See Rochester, NY salary details

$46.4K

$78.8K

$105.6K

How much do environmental planner jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for environmental planner in Rochester, NY is $78,770.00, 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 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 Do Environmental Planners 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 does an Environmental Planner do?

An Environmental Planner is responsible for assessing the potential environmental impacts of proposed projects and developments. They work to ensure that construction and land use plans comply with environmental regulations and sustainability goals. This often involves conducting environmental impact assessments, working with government agencies, and engaging with the public to incorporate environmental considerations into planning decisions. Their goal is to balance development needs with the protection of natural resources.

What degree do you need for environmental planning?

Environmental planners typically need at least a bachelor's degree in environmental science, urban planning, geography, or a related field. A master's degree can enhance job prospects and specialization opportunities, and professional certifications may also be beneficial for career advancement.

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 with advanced certifications or specialized skills in GIS or environmental law may earn higher salaries.

How to become a certified Environmental Planner?

To become a certified Environmental Planner, individuals typically need a bachelor's degree in environmental planning, environmental science, or a related field. Gaining relevant work experience and obtaining certification through organizations like the American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) by passing an exam are common steps. Continuing education and staying current with environmental regulations are also important for maintaining certification.

What do environmental planners do?

Environmental planners analyze environmental data and develop plans to manage land use, natural resources, and environmental impact. They often conduct site assessments, prepare reports, and collaborate with government agencies and communities to ensure projects comply with environmental regulations.

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 Rochester, NY? The most popular types of Environmental Planner jobs in Rochester, NY are:
What job categories do people searching Environmental Planner jobs in Rochester, NY look for? The top searched job categories for Environmental Planner jobs in Rochester, NY are:
What cities near Rochester, NY are hiring for Environmental Planner jobs? Cities near Rochester, NY with the most Environmental Planner job openings:
Environmental Analyst 1 / Trainee 1 / 2 - NY HELPS

Environmental Analyst 1 / Trainee 1 / 2 - NY HELPS

New York State

Avon, NY

$53K - $85K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago


New York State rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 178 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

26th of 50 rated states


Job description

Duties Description 1. Serve as project manager on permit applications/facilities and review requests, including interpretation of maps and plans, preparing written materials (letters, notices, SEQR documentation and permits), review of environmental impact statements, integration of environmental factors and other considerations into decision making. 2.

Explain environmental impact laws, regulations and permit jurisdictions to applicants, Department staff, other agencies and the public. 3. Conduct interdisciplinary environmental and regulatory reviews for assigned permit applications and other proposals utilizing GIS and other resources.

4. Assist and train program aides, seasonal employees and interns. 5.

Utilize computer programs to prepare work products and reports, and to manage, track and document activities. 6. Perform environmental impact analysis, including identification, evaluation and mitigation of the potential effects of proposed project changes to the environment.

7. Assist in the review of programs, policy, regulations and legislation. 8.

Carry out inspections of project sites, evaluate regulatory/resource issues, environmental concerns and potential violations. Minimum Qualifications This title is part of the New York Hiring for Emergency Limited Placement Statewide Program (NY HELPS). For the duration of the NY HELPS Program, this title may be filled via a non-competitive appointment, which means no examination is required but all candidates must meet the minimum qualifications of the title for which they apply.

At a future date, it is expected employees hired under NY HELPS will have their non-competitive employment status converted to competitive status, without having to compete in an examination. Employees will then be afforded with all of the same rights and privileges of competitive class employees of New York State. While serving permanently in a NY HELPS title, employees may take part in any promotion examination for which they are qualified.

Environmental Analyst Trainee 1, SG-NS: A bachelor's degree in civil, environmental, or geological engineering; environmental planning; environmental studies; environmental, natural, or physical science; land use planning; archeology; geography; or landscape architecture. Environmental Analyst Trainee 2, SG-NS: A bachelor's degree in civil, environmental, or geological engineering; environmental planning; environmental studies; environmental, natural, or physical science; land use planning; archeology; geography; or landscape architecture and one year* of experience preparing or reviewing environmental impact statements; providing expert testimony on environmental impact at public hearings; providing consultation on environmental impact laws, rules, and regulations; or conducting office evaluations and field investigations related to multi-disciplinary environmental regulatory programs such as water quality, wetlands, air quality, solid and hazardous waste management, and mining. *A Juris Doctor, master's or higher degree in a related field can substitute for one year of specialized experience.

Environmental Analyst 1, SG- 18: A bachelor's degree in civil, environmental, or geological engineering; environmental planning; environmental studies; environmental, natural, or physical science; land use planning; archeology; geography; or landscape architecture and two years* of experience preparing or reviewing environmental impact statements; providing expert testimony on environmental impact at public hearings; providing consultation on environmental impact laws, rules, and regulations; or conducting office evaluations and field investigations related to multi-disciplinary environmental regulatory programs such as water quality, wetlands, air quality, solid and hazardous waste management, and mining. *A Juris Doctor, master's or higher degree in a related field can substitute for one year of specialized experience. Candidates may also be eligible via the following: Reassignment - Currently in the title and an employee of DEC.

Reinstatement Eligible - Previously held the title or a title approved for transfer as noted below on a permanent competitive basis. Transfer Eligible - One year of permanent competitive service in a title that has been approved for transfer in accordance with Section 70.1 of the Civil Service Law. A comprehensive list of titles approved for transfer is available on the Department of Civil Service's GOT-IT webpage (https://careermobilityoffice.cs.ny.gov/cmo/gotit/)

55-b/55-c Appointment - Must meet minimum qualifications listed above. Please note that if applying under the 55-b/55-c program, candidates must include with their resume or application a copy of the letter from Civil Service which indicates approval for the 55-b/55-c program. Additional Comments Must have a valid driver's license or demonstrate the ability to meet the transportation needs of the position.

Must be able to negotiate difficult terrain. Travel may be required. Overtime may be required.

Overnight travel may be required. Must be available for emergency response. Must be able to lift and move objects up to 25 pounds.

Telecommuting may be available up to 50% of work schedule, will be discussed at interview. We offer a work-life balance and a generous benefits package, worth 65% of salary, including: Holiday & Paid Time Off Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Pension from New York State Employees' Retirement System Shift & Geographic pay differentials Affordable Health Care options Family dental and vision benefits at no additional cost NYS Deferred Compensation plan Access to NY 529 and NY ABLE College Savings Programs, and U.S. Savings Bonds And many more..

For new State employees appointed to graded positions, the annual salary is the hiring rate (beginning of the Salary Range) of the position. Promotion salaries are calculated by the NYS Office of the State Comptroller in accordance with NYS Civil Service Law, OSC Payroll rules and regulations and negotiated union contracts. The Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) is committed to fostering a culture of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility.

Our work would not be possible without the diverse backgrounds, experiences, ideas, and abilities of our employees. DEC is committed to developing a workforce which represents the diverse population of New York State. DEC embraces a diverse and inclusive work environment by encouraging all individuals, including those with disabilities, to apply to open positions at the agency.

Please be advised, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation does not use E-Verify, and we are unable to provide sponsorship for employment visa statuses (i.e. H-1B, Self-Sponsorship, STEM OPT). Some positions may require additional credentials or a background check to verify your identity.


What New York State employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom