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Environmental Planning Jobs (NOW HIRING)

We're seeking an Environmental Planning Lead to guide our multidisciplinary environmental team within the Transportation division. In this leadership role, you'll manage environmental projects, lead ...

Environmental Planner

Washington, DC · On-site

$110K - $125K/yr

Serve as a key member on the planning and environmental team for infrastructure clients, serving as a Planning and Environmental Manager for infrastructure projects * Lead the writing of technical ...

Environmental Planner

Washington, DC · On-site

$110K - $125K/yr

Serve as a key member on the planning and environmental team for infrastructure clients, serving as a Planning and Environmental Manager for infrastructure projects * Lead the writing of technical ...

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Environmental Planning information

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$47K

$79.8K

$107K

How much do environmental planning jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for environmental planning in the United States is $79,834.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $70,000.00 and $90,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an environmental planner?

To thrive as an Environmental Planner, you need expertise in environmental science, urban planning, and regulatory compliance, typically supported by a relevant degree in environmental studies or planning. Familiarity with GIS software, environmental impact assessment tools, and knowledge of local, state, and federal regulations are essential. Strong analytical thinking, communication, and stakeholder engagement skills set outstanding planners apart. These skills are crucial for creating sustainable, legally-compliant projects that balance development needs with environmental protection.

What is environmental planning?

Environmental planning is a process that integrates environmental considerations into land use planning and decision-making. Professionals in this field assess the potential impacts of development projects on the natural environment and help design solutions to minimize negative effects. Their work often involves conducting environmental impact assessments, ensuring compliance with regulations, and promoting sustainable development. Environmental planners collaborate with government agencies, developers, and communities to balance economic, social, and environmental goals.

How do you become an environmental planner?

To become an environmental planner, typically a bachelor's degree in environmental science, urban planning, or a related field is required. Gaining experience through internships and obtaining professional certifications, such as the American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP), can enhance job prospects and demonstrate expertise in planning and environmental regulations.

What is the difference between Environmental Planning vs Environmental Engineering?

AspectEnvironmental PlanningEnvironmental Engineering
Required CredentialsBachelor's or master's in urban planning, environmental science, or related fieldsBachelor's or master's in environmental engineering or related engineering disciplines
Work EnvironmentUrban, governmental agencies, consulting firms, focus on policy and land useLaboratories, construction sites, focus on technical solutions and system design
Employer & Industry UsageMunicipalities, planning agencies, environmental consultanciesEngineering firms, construction companies, government agencies

Environmental Planning and Environmental Engineering share overlapping credentials and often work within the environmental sector. However, Environmental Planning primarily focuses on land use, policy, and sustainable development, while Environmental Engineering emphasizes technical solutions like pollution control and system design. Both roles are vital for environmental protection but serve different functions within the industry.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in environmental planning, and how can they be managed?

Environmental Planners often navigate complex regulatory requirements and must balance the interests of multiple stakeholders, such as government agencies, developers, and the public. Managing conflicting priorities and ensuring compliance with environmental laws can be challenging, especially on large-scale projects. Effective communication, continuous learning about changing regulations, and strong project management skills are essential for success in this role. Working collaboratively within multidisciplinary teams also helps address these challenges and results in more sustainable planning outcomes.

What are environmental planning jobs?

Environmental planning jobs involve developing strategies and policies to manage land use, natural resources, and environmental impacts. Professionals in this field analyze data, conduct site assessments, and work with regulations to promote sustainable development. Skills in GIS, environmental law, and project management are often required.

What do environmental planners do?

Environmental planners develop strategies to manage and protect natural resources while considering land use, environmental regulations, and community needs. They conduct site assessments, prepare reports, and collaborate with stakeholders to ensure sustainable development projects comply with environmental laws. Proficiency in GIS tools and environmental policies is often required.
More about Environmental Planning jobs
What cities are hiring for Environmental Planning jobs? Cities with the most Environmental Planning job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Environmental Planning jobs? The most popular types of Environmental Planning jobs are:
What states have the most Environmental Planning jobs? States with the most job openings for Environmental Planning jobs include:
Infographic showing various Environmental Planning job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 2% Temporary. Highlights an 92% In-person, 4% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $79,834 per year, or $38.4 per hour.

$18 - $23/hr

Full-time, Internship

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

Description The Environment Department at Metropolitan Area Planning Council (MAPC) is offering an internship for the fall to support environmental and climate resilience projects and other climate-related efforts throughout the MAPC region. MAPC fosters a supportive learning environment for all staff. Anticipated outcomes from this internship experience include: Networking opportunities within the planning field Increased familiarity with climate and environmental planning projects, such as hazard mitigation plans, flood impact assessments, climate action and resilience plans, etc.

Exposure to the range of planning areas represented at MAPC, beyond climate and environmental planning; including public health planning, arts and culture planning, land use and zoning, and more Exposure to the operations and decision-making processes of local governments About MAPC: MAPC is the Regional Planning Agency (RPA) serving the people who live and work in metropolitan Boston. Our strategic priorities are sustainable development, regional collaboration, and fostering an equitable and resilient region. Our work is guided by our regional plan, MetroCommon2050: Shaping the Region Together.

MAPC's staff includes about 120 full-time employees in downtown Boston in a transit-accessible and bike-friendly office. MAPC strongly supports the professional development of each staff person, believing their growth to be consistent with the best interests of MAPC and the region. We encourage all our staff to develop new ideas to make MAPC's planning and policy work more relevant and impactful, and to adapt to changing times.

Interns will be working remotely, and will not be expected to come into the office regularly. Candidates must reside in Massachusetts while they are working remotely. This is an opportunity to work in a dynamic, interdisciplinary, and innovative environment with professionals who are committed to building a more sustainable and equitable future for everyone who lives and works in Greater Boston.

For more information about MAPC or MetroCommon2050, please visit www.mapc.org Responsibilities (including but not limited to) Support MVP Planning 2.0 projects Help with the engagement of municipal staff and residents in EJ neighborhoods Support the development of Hazard Mitigation Plans (HMPs) for cities and towns in MAPC region, including: Conduct research on community profiles, natural hazards, climate data analysis; Assist with identifying community stakeholders, conducting outreach, and support notetaking and facilitation of project team and public meetings; and Provide writing support for select HMP chapters. Help organize stakeholder meetings and provide communications and administrative support for other work in the department, including the Accelerating Climate Resilience grant program, Climate Resilience Playbook, and other climate action and resilience planning projects. Participate in reviewing and drafting memoranda on climate-related policy issues

Conduct research and assess innovative opportunities for the Environment Department to implement equitable community-based programs in the Greater Boston region. Qualifications Applicants for this position must be a student studying environmental studies, climate policy, urban planning, natural resources management, emergency management, public policy, architecture, business, communications, or another related field. Successful candidates for this position will demonstrate all or most of the following: Experience in community engagement, specifically discussing climate hazards and lived experience Familiarity with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)'s guidelines for hazard mitigation planning, and Massachusetts' Municipal Vulnerability Preparedness (MVP) program, as well as related hazard mitigation and adaptation planning efforts; Familiarity with climate change mitigation and adaptation, current environmental and/or climate-related policies, programs in Massachusetts; Experience with climate data analysis; and Strong writing and research skills, WordPress, AirTable, Qualtrics, GIS or graphic design is a plus.

The position will be weekday hours and primarily remote, with optional attendance at regularly scheduled weekly in-person office meetings or attendance at specific evening meetings for projects throughout the region. Candidates must reside in Massachusetts while they are working remotely. Only candidates currently enrolled in an academic program will be considered for this position.

Compensation and Benefits: This is a paid internship with an hourly rate of $18 - $23 per hour, depending on qualifications. We are seeking 15-25 hours per week with flexibility, depending upon skill level and selected students' availability. The intern will be issued an MAPC laptop or computer for the purposes of completing the above work.

To qualify as an intern, individuals must be enrolled in an academic program, provide written verification of their status, and agree to a scheduled end date upon hire. How to Apply: Apply online at www.mapc.org/jobs. The position is open until filled, and applications are reviewed on a rolling basis

Interested candidates should submit a cover letter and resume. Candidates selected to interview will be asked to submit three (3) references plus a sample of relevant writing or work product. Candidates must have legal authorization to work in the USA.

MAPC participates in E-Verify, which is a federal program that helps us to determine work eligibility in the United States. MAPC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We believe that a staff with a range of perspectives, experiences, and skillsets strengthens our work.

We are committed to building a more equitable workplace that allows staff with diverse backgrounds and identities to thrive, grow, and lead. For more information on MAPC's culture of equity, see our Equity at MAPC page.