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Environmental Planner Jobs in Silver Spring, MD (NOW HIRING)

Overview LMI seeks an experienced R eal Estate/Environmental Analyst to support the development and tracking of complex real estate and environmental planning actions and documents to support a ...

Overview LMI seeks an experienced R eal Estate/Environmental Analyst to support the development and tracking of complex real estate and environmental planning actions and documents to support a ...

LMI seeks an experienced R eal Estate/Environmental Analyst to support the development and tracking of complex real estate and environmental planning actions and documents to support a federal ...

Transportation Planner

Baltimore, MD · On-site

$68K - $81K/yr

Generates accurate and concise documentation by applying and integrating transportation, environmental and regional planning. Assist in developing assessments of existing transportation ...

Showing results 21-40

Environmental Planner information

See Silver Spring, MD salary details

$48.6K

$82.5K

$110.6K

How much do environmental planner jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for environmental planner in Silver Spring, MD is $82,531.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $72,400.00 and $93,000.00 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 popular job titles related to Environmental Planner jobs in Silver Spring, MD? For Environmental Planner jobs in Silver Spring, MD, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Environmental Planner jobs in Silver Spring, MD look for? The top searched job categories for Environmental Planner jobs in Silver Spring, MD are:
What cities near Silver Spring, MD are hiring for Environmental Planner jobs? Cities near Silver Spring, MD with the most Environmental Planner job openings:
Infographic showing various Environmental Planner job openings in Silver Spring, MD as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $82,531 per year, or $39.7 per hour.

ENVIRONMENTAL PLANNING TEAM LEAD

Naval Facilities Engineering Systems Command

Washington, DC • On-site, Remote

$143K - $187K/yr

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago


Naval Facilities Engineering Systems Command rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 21 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

29th of 49 rated military and defense


Job description

Summary
You will serve as the ENVIRONMENTAL PLANNING TEAM LEAD in the Environmental Division of NAVFAC Headquarters.
This is an Interdisciplinary Position.
Position can be filled by either of the following series:
COMMUNITY PLANNER (0020), BIOLOGIST (0401), ENVIRONMENTAL ENGINEER (0819) or a PHYSICAL SCIENTIST (1301)
Learn more about this agency
Duties
Help
  • You will serve as the Environmental Planner and Team Lead that reviews and coordinates the delivery of environmental planning products and services to Supported Commands.
  • You will provide environmental planning solutions for DoD mission requirements while ensuring compliance with environmental laws and regulations.
  • You will manage and execute the NAVFAC environmental planning program by developing, coordinating, and reviewing program metrics; guiding process improvement and establishing program priorities.

Requirements
Help
Conditions of employment
  • Must be a US Citizen.
  • Must be determined suitable for federal employment.
  • Must participate in the direct deposit pay program.
  • New employees to the Department of the Navy will be required to successfully pass the E-Verify employment verification check. To learn more about E-Verify, including your rights and responsibilities, visit e-verify.gov
  • Generally, current federal employees applying for GS jobs must serve at least one year at the next lower grade level. This requirement is called time-in-grade. Time-in-grade requirements must be met by the closing date of this announcement.
  • Within the Department of Defense (DoD), the appointment of retired military members within 180 days immediately following retirement date to a civilian position is subject to the provisions of 5 United States Code 3326.
  • Males born after 12-31-59 must be registered for Selective Service.
  • You will be required to obtain and maintain an interim and/or final security clearance prior to entrance on duty. Failure to obtain and maintain the required level of clearance may result in the withdrawal of a job offer or removal.
  • You will be required to complete training, obtain, and maintain a government credit card for travel and travel-related purchases.
  • You will be required to complete ethics orientation within three months of appointment and submit a Confidential Financial Disclosure Report, OGE-450, within 30 days of appointment.
  • This position may require travel from normal duty station to CONUS and OCONUS and may include remote or isolated sites. You must be able to travel on military and commercial aircraft for extended periods of time.
  • You will be required to obtain and maintain a current valid United States driver's license.
  • This position is covered under Public Law 114-264, the Program Management Improvement Accountability Act (PMIAA).

Qualifications
In addition to the Basic Requirements for this position, your resume must also demonstrate at least one year of specialized experience at or equivalent to the GS-13 grade level or pay band in the Federal service or equivalent experience in the private or public sector. Specialized experience must demonstrate the following:
1) Serving as a project manager and experience executing complex Navy environmental planning projects in compliance with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), including development of contractor scopes of work/performance work statements, government estimates, funds management, contractor proposal review and negotiation, contractor oversight, invoicing, and contracting officer representative (COR) duties,
2) Providing guidance, coordination and technical expertise on complex Navy environmental planning issues and processes,
3) Applying Federal, state, and local laws and regulations, DON and DOW policies and processes related to environmental planning.
Note: This information must be supported in your resume to be considered for this position.
Additional qualification information can be found from the following Office of Personnel Management website:
https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/classification-qualifications/general-schedule-qualification-standards/#url=List-by-Occupational-Series
AND
https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/classification-qualifications/general-schedule-qualification-standards/0800/all-professional-engineering-positions-0800/, https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/classification-qualifications/general-schedule-qualification-standards/1300/general-physical-science-series-1301/, https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/classification-qualifications/general-schedule-qualification-standards/0000/community-planning-series-0020/, https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/classification-qualifications/general-schedule-qualification-standards/0400/general-natural-resources-management-and-biological-sciences-series-0401/
Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., professional, philanthropic, religious, spiritual, community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
5 CFR 551-207 - Professional - Primary duty must be the performance of work requiring knowledge of an advance type in a field of science or learning customarily acquired by a prolonged course of specialized intellectual instruction or requiring invention, imagination, or originality or talent.
Training Requirements: Must be able to successfully complete the following training courses within prescribed timeframe:
- Information Assurance within the first month
- Ethics training within the first three months
- Contracting Officer Representative training within the first year
Program Management Improvement Accountability Act (PMIAA):
This position is covered under Public Law 114-264. PMIAA Code: (1) Program Manager
Education
Applicants must meet the following positive education qualifications requirements of the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) Qualifications Standards Manual: Applicants must possess;
Basic Requirements of Environmental Engineer 0819:
A. Degree: Engineering. To be acceptable, the program must: (1) lead to a bachelor's degree in a school of engineering with at least one program accredited by ABET; or (2) include differential and integral calculus and courses (more advanced than first-year physics and chemistry) in five of the following seven areas of engineering science or physics: (a) statics, dynamics; (b) strength of materials (stress-strain relationships); (c) fluid mechanics, hydraulics; (d) thermodynamics; (e) electrical fields and circuits; (f) nature and properties of materials (relating particle and aggregate structure to properties); and (g) any other comparable area of fundamental engineering science or physics, such as optics, heat transfer, soil mechanics, or electronics.
OR
B. Combination of education and experience college-level education, training, and/or technical experience that furnished (1) a thorough knowledge of the physical and mathematical sciences underlying engineering, and (2) a good understanding, both theoretical and practical, of the engineering sciences and techniques and their applications to one of the branches of engineering. The adequacy of such background must be demonstrated by one of the following:
1. Professional registration or licensure Current registration as an Engineer Intern (EI), Engineer in Training (EIT)1, or licensure as a Professional Engineer (PE) by any State, the District of Columbia, Guam, or Puerto Rico. Absent other means of qualifying under this standard, those applicants who achieved such registration by means other than written test (e.g., State grandfather or eminence provisions) are eligible only for positions that are within or closely related to the specialty field of their registration. For example, an applicant who attains registration through a State Board's eminence provision as a manufacturing engineer typically would be rated eligible only for manufacturing engineering positions.
2. Written Test Evidence of having successfully passed the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE)2 examination or any other written test required for professional registration by an engineering licensure board in the various States, the District of Columbia, Guam, and Puerto Rico.
3. Specified academic courses Successful completion of at least 60 semester hours of courses in the physical, mathematical, and engineering sciences and that included the courses specified in the basic requirements under paragraph A. The courses must be fully acceptable toward meeting the requirements of an engineering program as described in paragraph A.
4. Related curriculum Successful completion of a curriculum leading to a bachelor's degree in an appropriate scientific field, e.g., engineering technology, physics, chemistry, architecture, computer science, mathematics, hydrology, or geology, may be accepted in lieu of a bachelor's degree in engineering, provided the applicant has had at least 1 year of professional engineering experience acquired under professional engineering supervision and guidance. Ordinarily there should be either an established plan of intensive training to develop professional engineering competence, or several years of prior professional engineering-type experience, e.g., in interdisciplinary positions. (The above examples of related curricula are not all-inclusive.)
Basic Requirements of Community Planning Series, 0020:
Degree: community planning; or related field such as urban affairs, architecture, landscape architecture, engineering, sociology, geography, economics, political science, or public administration that included at least 12 semester hours in the planning process, socioeconomic and physical elements of planning, urban and regional economic analysis, and development finance.
Note: Applicants with degrees in related fields, such as those listed above, who do not have the 12 semester hours of specified course work must have had at least 1 year of work experience in community planning acquired under the supervision and guidance of a community planner.
OR
Combination of education and experience: courses equivalent to a major in one of the above disciplines, or a combination of related courses totaling at least 24 semester hours in any combination of the above disciplines of which at least 12 semester hours were in the planning process, and socioeconomic and physical elements of planning, plus appropriate experience or additional education.
Basic Requirements of Natural Resources Specialist, 0401:
Degree: biological sciences, agriculture, natural resource management, chemistry, or related disciplines appropriate to the position.
OR
Combination of education and experience: Courses equivalent to a major, as shown in A above, plus appropriate experience or additional education.
Basic Requirements of General Physical Science Series, 1301:
Degree: physical science, engineering, or mathematics that included 24 semester hours in physical science and/or related engineering science such as mechanics, dynamics, properties of materials, and electronics.
OR
Combination of education and experience: education equivalent to one of the majors shown in A above that included at least 24 semester hours in physical science and/or related engineering science, plus appropriate experience or additional education.
Additional information
This position is covered by the Department of Defense Priority Placement Program.
Additional vacancies may be filled by this announcement.
A tentative offer of employment will be rescinded if the selectee fails to meet the pre-employment requirements, including failure to report to any of the scheduled appointments.
During the application process you will have the ability to opt-in to make your resume available to hiring managers in the agency who have similar positions in the local commuting area. Depending on the hiring organization and the position being filled, job requirements (e.g., security clearance, travel, drug testing, financial disclosure filing, bargaining unit status, etc.) may vary. Other hiring managers filling similar positions may offer relocation expense reimbursement and/or may offer recruitment incentives for new employees, depending on funding availability and in accordance with policy. If you opt-in and are referred on a certificate, your resume will be available to other hiring managers for 180-days from the date the job announcement closes. Opting in does not impact your application for this announcement, nor does it guarantee further consideration for additional positions.
Federal annuitant information: The selection of an annuitant is subject to the Department of Defense and Department of the Navy policy on the employment of annuitants. Policy information may be found at: http://www.secnav.navy.mil/donhr/Documents/CivilianJobs/FedCivAnnuitants.pdf
PPP applicants will be placed at the FPL, if determined Well Qualified (WQ). To receive priority consideration, the FPL must be the same grade level or equivalent of the retained grade or the grade held immediately prior to separation.
ICTAP Applicants: To be considered well-qualified and exercise selection priority as an ICTAP candidate, displaced Federal employees must satisfy all qualification requirements for the position and receive a rating in the highly qualified category (score 85) or higher. ICTAP candidates must provide copies of all of the following documentation at the time of application: 1) agency notice; 2) most recent performance appraisal; and 3) most recent SF-50 or notification of personnel action that includes position, grade level, and duty location. Applicants who do not provide this documentation will not receive consideration as an ICTAP candidate. For more information about ICTAP eligibility please review the following link: https://www.usajobs.gov/Help/working-in

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