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Environmental Planning Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Hanchey

Environmental Planner

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$75K - $97K/yr

Environmental consulting firm in Southern California that provides environmental planning, regulatory permitting, technical studies for biological and cultural resources, and construction mitigation ...

Verdantas

Environmental Planner III

San Ramon, CA · On-site

$98K/yr

Lead environmental planning tasks from early site evaluation through construction support * Coordinate with technical specialists to develop avoidance, minimization, and permitting strategies

Bolton & Menk, Inc

Environmental Planner II

Fargo, ND · Hybrid

$75K - $106K/yr

Support parks and trail system planning, environmental documentation, and natural and cultural resource coordination. * Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams on complex, multi-agency projects that ...

Seneca Holdings

Junior Environmental Planner

Phoenix, AZ

$69K - $89K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Environmental Studies, Environmental Science, Planning, Biology, Anthropology, Geography, Natural Resources, or a closely related field. * 0-2 years of experience in ...

Seneca Holdings

Junior Environmental Planner

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$69K - $89K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Environmental Studies, Environmental Science, Planning, Biology, Anthropology, Geography, Natural Resources, or a closely related field. * 0-2 years of experience in ...

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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 Jun 27, 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 is the highest paying environmental job?

Environmental managers, sustainability directors, and environmental engineers with advanced expertise and certifications tend to have the highest salaries in the field. Senior roles overseeing large projects or organizations often earn six-figure incomes, especially with specialized skills in environmental law, policy, or technical analysis.

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 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.

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 is the job of an Environmental Planner?

An Environmental Planner is responsible for assessing the environmental impact of development projects, ensuring compliance with regulations, and developing strategies to minimize ecological disruption. They often conduct site evaluations, prepare reports, and collaborate with government agencies and stakeholders to promote sustainable land use. Strong knowledge of environmental laws, GIS tools, and project management skills are essential in this role.

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.

Do environmentalists get paid well?

Environmental planning professionals typically earn moderate to high salaries depending on experience, education, and location. Entry-level positions may start lower, but experienced environmental planners with certifications can earn competitive wages, especially in consulting or government roles. Salary data varies, but many environmental planners find the compensation aligns with other technical or scientific careers.
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:
What job categories do people searching Environmental Planning jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Environmental Planning jobs are:
Environmental Planning jobs near you
Infographic showing various Environmental Planning job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, and 25% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $79,834 per year, or $38.4 per hour.
Environmental Planning Project Manager

Environmental Planning Project Manager

TERRACON

Sacramento, CA • On-site

$84K - $131K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 hours ago

Terracon rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 112 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

42nd of 57 rated business consultants

Job description


Manage all aspects of an environmental planning-related project to ensure that it is safely completed on time and within scope and budget. Responsible for completing the project as per its contracted scope; monitor progress and performance against the project plan. Troubleshoot and recommend or resolve operational problems and minimize delays. May be responsible for resource management, project scheduling, budgets and forecasts, and working with external vendors, subcontractors or contractors. Conduct meetings and prepare reports to communicate the status of the project to project team and client. Set priorities, assign tasks, and coordinate project staff to meet project targets and milestones. Coordinate with the Approved Project Reviewer and Subject Matter Expert (APR/SME) throughout the lifecycle of a project. Support general project management and administrative tasks including approving invoices, preparing change orders, contracting, and AR collections.
Responsibilities
  • Manage all aspects of an Environmental Planning project.
  • Works with client or National Account Manager to define project scope, schedule and budget.
  • Design, communicate, and implement a project plan for completing the project.
  • Leads safety efforts including preparation and compliance with approved safety plan. Ensure team follows safety rules and guidelines. Responsible for creating and modeling a safe work environment; demonstrates safety practices. Promote pre-task planning for all projects.
  • Take action to resolve operational problems and minimize delays.
  • Identify, develop, and gather the resources to complete the project. This may include preparing calculations, designs, reports and work specifications; developing project schedules, budgets and forecasts; and selecting materials, equipment, project staff, and external contractors.
  • Partner with other departments or offices to secure specialized resources for the project.
  • Conduct meetings and prepare reports to communicate the status of the project.
  • Set priorities, assign tasks, and coordinate project staff to meet project targets and milestones.
  • Coordinates with APR to ensure appropriate oversight is in place and sufficient time allowed for review of all critical junctures.
  • Coordinates with accounting for financial management of business intelligence, invoicing and collections.
  • Develop understanding and be aware of project-related risk. Be familiar with what could go wrong on a project and how to protect the Company. Be familiar with company risk policies.
  • Responsible for continuous quality monitoring and improvement on projects. Monitor and promote quality standards and practices.
  • Responsible for providing consistent quality standards on project and proposal delivery. Engage APRs on projects at their onset.

Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in technical discipline practices by the Firm including Engineering, Environmental Science or Geology and a minimum of 5 years' related experience. Or, in lieu of a degree, a minimum of 9 years' related experience.
  • A valid driver's license with acceptable violation history may be required.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Professional Engineer (PE), Professional Geologist (PG) or similar professional registration/certification relevant to the type of services and projects being managed
  • Familiarity with CEQA/NEPA processes, including environmental documentation and compliance, along with working knowledge of related California and federal permitting (401/404, ESA, CESA, LSAA)
  • Experience supporting CEQA/NEPA compliance, including coordination of environmental documentation and mitigation implementation
  • Strong project management skills, with experience managing projects from initiation through completion, including budgets, schedules, and deliverables
  • Ability to manage multiple concurrent projects in a fast-paced environment with strong organization and attention to detail
  • Excellent technical writing and communication skills, including preparation of environmental reports and coordination with teams, clients, and agencies
  • Experience reviewing and interpreting technical documents, such as sampling data, engineering plans, construction specifications, and environmental reports
  • Collaborative team player who can work independently, support junior staff, and contribute to a knowledge-sharing environment
  • Professional judgment and discretion, with the ability to handle sensitive information appropriately
  • Positive, self-motivated approach with a commitment to continuous learning and professional development
  • Familiarity with GIS tools (e.g., ArcGIS Pro, Collector) and geospatial data management is a plus

About Us
Terracon is a 100 percent employee-owned multidiscipline consulting firm comprised of more than 8,000 curious minds focused on solving engineering and technical challenges from more than 200 locations nationwide. Since 1965, Terracon has evolved into a successful multi-discipline firm specializing in environmental, facilities, geotechnical, and materials services. Terracon's growth is due to our talented employee-owners exceeding expectations in client service and growing their careers with new and exciting opportunities in the marketplace. Terracon was recognized as the #1 firm in Asbestos and Lead Abatement.
Terracon's vision of "Together, we are best at people" is demonstrated through our excellent compensation and benefits package. Based on eligibility, role and job status, we offer many programs including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, 401(k) plan, paid time off and holidays, education reimbursement, and various bonus programs.
About the Team
Our national environmental team helps our clients do the right thing for their projects, and for our planet. Our professionals include environmental architects, archaeologists, biologists, engineers, geologists, historians, industrial hygienists, planners, and scientists. Working together in the field, office, or lab, we help guide clients through the steps and processes to address environmental challenges and move their projects forward as quickly, safely, and sustainably as possible. With services including site assessment, planning and permitting including cultural and natural resources, sustainability and resiliency, regulatory compliance, and industrial hygiene and safety, we're at the forefront of helping clients succeed and communities thrive.

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