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Environmental Planning Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The ideal candidate will provide technical environmental planning assistance to assess the environmental impacts of commercial, industrial, utility, transmission, development, infrastructure ...

Early Career Environmental Planner

Honolulu, HI · On-site

$69K - $88K/yr

Be involved in projects with our Advisory & Planning Team and be a part of a growing organization that meets our client's objectives and solves their challenges. The ideal candidate will provide ...

Be involved in projects with our Advisory & Planning Team and be a part of a growing organization that meets our client's objectives and solves their challenges. The ideal candidate will provide ...

Environmental Planner-Atlanta,Georgia

Jonesboro, GA · On-site

$65K - $84K/yr

Preparing NEPA and planning documents, including Need and Purpose Statements, Categorical Exclusions, Environmental Assessments, and Environmental Impact Statements. Ensuring that NEPA documentation ...

Sr Environmental Planner

Las Vegas, NV · On-site

$103K - $181K/yr

Bachelor's Degree in Environmental Planning, Environmental Science, Biology, Ecology, or related field (or related field) * 10+ years experience in environmental planning and permitting * Expertise ...

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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 Jul 19, 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 jobs can you get with an environmental degree?

Environmental planning graduates can pursue roles such as environmental planner, sustainability analyst, conservation scientist, environmental consultant, or land use planner. These jobs often require knowledge of environmental laws, GIS tools, and project management skills, and may involve fieldwork, data analysis, and report writing.

What is the highest paying environmental job?

Environmental managers, sustainability directors, and senior environmental engineers tend to have the highest salaries in the field, often exceeding six figures. These roles typically require advanced degrees, extensive experience, and strong leadership skills, and they often involve overseeing large projects or corporate sustainability strategies.

How much does an environmental planner earn?

Environmental planners 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. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced professionals or those with specialized skills can earn higher wages.

What does an environmental planner do?

An environmental planner evaluates environmental impacts of projects and develops plans to minimize harm to natural resources. They conduct site assessments, prepare reports, and ensure compliance with environmental regulations, often using tools like GIS software. Their work supports sustainable development and requires knowledge of environmental laws and planning processes.

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.
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 July 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.
Early Career Environmental Planner

Early Career Environmental Planner

WSP

Ballwin, MO

$68K - $87K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 20 hours ago


WSP rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 67 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

15th of 58 rated business consultants


Job description

This Opportunity

WSP is seeking an Early Career Environmental Planner to join its Environmental and Social Impact Assessment Team reporting to the Creve Coeur, MO Office. The ideal candidate will provide technical environmental planning assistance to assess the environmental impacts of commercial, industrial, utility, transmission, development, infrastructure, construction, pipeline, and/or transportation related projects across the country. The Early Career Environmental Planner will work closely with Project Managers and Task Leaders to support the development of environmental evaluations and reports. This position is an opportunity to learn across a range of project activities including: the development of environmental impact assessments in support of the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA); participation in public involvement; field, desktop, and geospatial data collection, processing, and analysis; and scientific and technical report preparation. This is a position that will appeal to individuals that have familiarity with the NEPA process, excellent scientific and technical writing skills, a good work ethic, and genuine interest in career growth within a professional team of environmental planners, scientists, and biologists. 

WSP USA invites qualified applicants with a Bachelor's degree or higher in the fields of Environmental Planning, Environmental Policy, Biology, Natural Resources, Environmental Sciences or Environmental Engineering to apply for the position.

Your Impact
  • Under direct supervision, assist with preparing NEPA environmental assessments and environmental impact statements, impact assessments, environmental survey reports, data entry, and permitting documentation for assigned tasks (e.g., NEPA, Endangered Species Act, Clean Water Act permitting, nuclear licensing, etc.). 
  • Understanding of impact assessment methodologies and excellent scientific research and/or writing skills. 
  • Under general supervision, assist with field and desktop collection, identification, and compilation of observational, spatial, operations, and environmental data from multiple matrices for projects, research, and surveys. 
  • Maintain quality control standards and procedures for accurate and precise measurements, demographics, patterns and trends, and statistical analysis of environmental data. 
  • Assist with performing basic professional environmental planning work relating to ecological systems, habitats, air, and water resources, assisting with verifying the characteristics of a site and providing entry level technical assistance on various environmental issues. 
  • Utilize the latest technologies and techniques in performing studies and analysis of habitats, sites, and potential impacts to the health of the environment and the population. 
  • Support preparation for and participation in client meetings and public information meetings; organize public comment databases; review and respond to public comments. 
  • Ability to complete training and meet project schedules on assigned tasks.  
  • Exercise responsible and ethical decision-making regarding company funds, resources and conduct, and adhere to WSP's Code of Conduct and related policies and procedures. 
  • Perform additional responsibilities as required by business needs.
Who You Are

Required Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in environmental planning or policy, environmental science, biological science, geology or water resources, natural resources, or a related field.
  • 0 to 1 years of relevant environmental or planning experience. 
  • Applicant will have strong oral and interpersonal communication skills and excellent writing skills (Must be prepared to provide a recent sample of a professional-level paper, such as Environmental Assessment or relevant research paper, showing the portion(s) of the document written or co-authored by the applicant). 
  • Effective analytical skills and prior experience with research techniques and data collection.
  • Knowledge of relevant environmental laws, permitting requirements, and applicable Regional/State/Federal regulatory framework. 
  • Capable self-leadership with attention to detail, multi-tasking, and prioritization of responsibilities in a dynamic work environment. 
  • Familiarity with office automation and communication software, technology, and document formatting and management (i.e., Microsoft, Adobe Professional, Google Earth). 
  • Ability to work independently under general supervision, as well as part of a team to meet business objectives. 
  • Critical thinking and problem-solving skills required to reach conclusions from data collation, and identify the most effective manner to accomplish objectives of assigned projects.
  • Moderate proficiency with business writing, office automation and communication software, technology, and tools.
  • Proven track record of upholding workplace safety and ability to abide by WSP's health, safety and drug/alcohol and harassment policies. 
  • Ability to work schedules conducive to project-specific requirements that may extend beyond the typical workweek. 
  • Occasional overnight travel and/or field survey work may be required depending on project-specific requirements.
  • Candidates may be asked to provide a writing sample during interview.
     

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Master's degree is preferred.
  • A member of and/or actively participate in local professional practice organizations.
  • Prior internship related to the line.

#LI-LD1
 

About WSP

WSP USA is the U.S. operating company of WSP, one of the world's leading engineering and professional services firms. Dedicated to serving local communities, we are engineers, planners, technical experts, strategic advisors and construction management professionals. WSP USA designs lasting solutions in the buildings, transportation, energy, water and environment markets. With more than 15,000 employees in over 300 offices across the U.S., we partner with our clients to help communities prosper.

www.wsp.com

WSP provides a flexible and agile workplace model while meeting client needs. Employees are also afforded a comprehensive suite of benefits including medical, dental, vision, disability, life, and retirement savings focused on providing health and financial stability throughout the employee's career.

At WSP, we want to give our employees the challenges they seek to grow their careers and knowledge base. Your daily contributions to your team will be essential in meeting client objectives, goals and challenges. Are you ready to get started?

WSP USA (and all of its U.S. companies) is an Equal Opportunity Employer Race/Age/Color/Religion/Sex/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity/National Origin/Disability or Protected Veteran Status.

The selected candidate must be authorized to work in the United States.

NOTICE TO THIRD PARTY AGENCIES:

WSP does not accept unsolicited resumes from recruiters, employment agencies, or other staffing services. Unsolicited resumes include any resume or hiring document sent to WSP in the absence of a signed Service Agreement where WSP has expressly requested recruitment/staffing services specific to the position at hand.  Any unsolicited resumes, including those submitted to hiring managers or other business leaders, will become the property of WSP and WSP will have the right to hire that candidate without reservation - no fee or other compensation will be owed or paid to the recruiter, employment agency, or other staffing service. 


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