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Natural Resource Planner Jobs (NOW HIRING)

BB&E

Natural Resources Specialist

Houston, TX · On-site

Support planning for and reviewing of natural resources related plans and permits including Bird/Wildlife Aircraft Strike Hazard Plan (BASH), banding and/or depredation permits. * Support meetings ...

BB&E

Natural Resources Specialist

Houston, TX

Support planning for and reviewing of natural resources related plans and permits including Bird/Wildlife Aircraft Strike Hazard Plan (BASH), banding and/or depredation permits. * Support meetings ...

BB&E

Natural Resources Specialist

Houston, TX · On-site

Support planning for and reviewing of natural resources related plans and permits including Bird/Wildlife Aircraft Strike Hazard Plan (BASH), banding and/or depredation permits. * Support meetings ...

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How much do natural resource planner jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for natural resource planner in the United States is $65,702.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $54,000.00 and $74,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Natural Resource Planner position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Natural Resource Planner, you need expertise in environmental science, land use planning, and policy analysis, typically supported by a relevant bachelor's or master's degree. Familiarity with GIS software, environmental impact assessment tools, and permitting processes is often required, along with certifications like AICP for advanced roles. Strong communication, stakeholder engagement, and project management skills help set exceptional candidates apart. These competencies are crucial for developing effective resource management plans that balance ecological, social, and economic needs.

What do natural resource planners do?

Natural resource planners develop strategies to manage and conserve natural resources such as land, water, and wildlife. They analyze environmental data, collaborate with stakeholders, and create plans to ensure sustainable use while complying with regulations, often using GIS tools and environmental assessments.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

Natural Resource Planners typically do not earn $4,000 weekly without specialized experience or certifications. High-paying roles in resource management or consulting may reach that level, but they often require extensive industry knowledge, technical skills, or licensing. Most jobs in this field pay less than that amount without advanced education or significant experience.

What are the highest paying jobs in natural resources?

In the field of natural resources, roles such as senior environmental managers, natural resource managers, and environmental engineers tend to have the highest salaries, often exceeding $80,000 annually. Advanced positions requiring specialized skills, certifications, and experience in areas like environmental law, GIS, or project management typically offer higher compensation.

What is a Natural Resource Planner job?

A Natural Resource Planner is responsible for analyzing, managing, and conserving natural resources such as land, water, and ecosystems. They develop plans and policies to ensure sustainable use while balancing environmental, economic, and community needs. Their work may involve conducting environmental assessments, collaborating with stakeholders, and implementing conservation strategies. Natural Resource Planners are often employed by government agencies, environmental organizations, or consulting firms.

What jobs will no longer exist in 2030?

By 2030, some traditional roles in natural resource planning, such as manual environmental assessment and paper-based data management, are expected to decline due to automation, digital tools, and increased use of remote sensing technologies. Jobs requiring routine data collection or manual analysis may be replaced by AI and GIS software, emphasizing skills in technology and data analysis for future roles.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a Natural Resource Planner?

Natural Resource Planners often split their time between fieldwork, data analysis, and collaboration with stakeholders and regulatory agencies. On a daily basis, you might review environmental impact reports, draft land-use plans, manage project timelines, and host public meetings to gather community input. Planners regularly use mapping and analytical software to assess resources and manage compliance with state and federal regulations. Teamwork is key, as you'll often work alongside ecologists, engineers, policymakers, and community members. This variety offers a dynamic work environment and the chance to see the positive impact of your planning on natural resources and local communities.

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What cities are hiring for Natural Resource Planner jobs? Cities with the most Natural Resource Planner job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Natural Resource Planner jobs? The most popular types of Natural Resource Planner jobs are:
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Natural Resource Planner jobs near you
Infographic showing various Natural Resource Planner job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, 24% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $65,702 per year, or $31.6 per hour.
Planner 2 - Regional Water Planner, Yellowstone River Basin (26141636)

Planner 2 - Regional Water Planner, Yellowstone River Basin (26141636)

State of Montana

Helena, MT

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago

State Of Montana rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 49 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

1st of 50 rated states

Job description

This is your chance to live in beautiful Helena, MT to assist the MT DNRC Water Resource Division in contributing to impactful and meaningful planning work that supports water-focused natural resource management throughout Montana! 

Helena boasts an incredible 70 mile easily accessed trail system for hiking, walking, mountain biking, and running.  Nearby world class recreational amenities include cross-country skiing, downhill skiing, backcountry touring, fishing, floating, camping, boating, hiking, and hunting in the surrounding rivers, lakes, streams, mountain ranges, and prairie settings.  Noteworthy water-based recreation opportunities abound along the Missouri and Blackfoot Rivers, Canyon Ferry Reservoir, Hauser Lake, Holter Lakes, and countless mountain waterbodies.  Mountain ranges including the Rocky Mountain Front, Big Belts, Elkhorns, and Boulder Mountains provide quick escapes for hardcore outdoor enthusiasts and families alike.  Helena is home to several restaurants and active community gatherings for all ages and interests.  Lively art and theatre focuses include the Grandstreet Theatre, Holter Museum of Art, Archie Bray Foundation, and Myrna Loy.  Be a part of an amazing team committed to sustainable & well-designed natural resource management in Montana!  

Location: Helena is the preferred location for the incumbent, but this can be flexible to possibly include Bozeman or Billings. 

Core Values of DNRC Water Resources Division 

  • Valuing People 

  • Stewardship 

  • Service 

  • Credibility 

  • Engagement 
     

Work Unit Overview:  
The Water Resources Division is responsible for promoting and coordinating the beneficial use, conservation, protection, and development of Montana's water resources. The Division carries out its duties to promote the general welfare, economic and social prosperity of the people of Montana. Sound coordination of the development and utilization of the state's waters allows the Water Resources Division to protect existing uses and to promote adequate future supplies for domestic, industrial, agricultural, and recreational needs, as well as the conservation of water for wildlife, aquatic life, and other beneficial uses. The Water Planning, Implementation, and Communication Bureau (PIC) staff engage with stakeholders both internally and externally to identify and prioritize needs and opportunities throughout the state; develop, analyze and facilitate implementation of water policies, rules and regulations; represent and protect Montana's water interests in interstate and international river basins; ensure compliance with Montana's tribal and federal water compact obligations; work with stakeholders to resolve water management issues at the local, regional, state, federal and international levels; and ensure that both Montana residents and DNRC staff are supported with clear and consistent guidance and communication. The PIC Bureau also provides watershed and basin planning studies and assistance with project planning, funding and implementation. The Bureau fosters stewardship of the state's water resources by delivering diverse outreach programs and initiatives to the public, other divisions within DNRC, state and federal agencies and regional conservation partners. The PIC Bureau is organized into three work units or sections: Communications, Compact Implementation and Water Resources Planning. 

Job Overview:  
The Regional Water Resource Planner (Water Planner) connects the Bureau, Division and other state and federal agencies with individuals, organizations and communities to meet the objectives of DNRC water management through collaborative, strategic, and place-based water use planning and project facilitation and implementation. Water Planners partner with others to create comprehensive water supply, drought, water management and other specialized water plans and projects like the State Water Plan ( 85-1-203, Montana Code Annotated (MCA)) and the State Drought Management Plan. Water Planners also plan and support the stakeholder engagement activities that inform the direction and prioritization of the Division's work. The Water Planning Section also staffs the Governor's Drought and Water Supply Advisory Committee ( 2-15-3308, MCA). Comprised of natural resource agency directors and designees, this committee informs the Governor's office and the public of water supply conditions and forecasts and recommends statewide drought emergency declarations as warranted. 

This position provides: 

  • Planning and policy expertise to DNRC regional staff, local government officials, planning boards, developers, irrigators, attorneys, engineers, hydrologists, and others involved in water use development, management and conservation. 

  • Technical expertise, facilitation, writing, and research assistance necessary for the resolution of complex and unique water management challenges, conflicts and disputes.  

  • Facilitation of the development of water resource projects and research through procurement of the necessary financial, contractual and technical support required for project implementation.  


Essential Functions (Major Duties or Responsibilities): These job functions are some of the essential duties of the position and are not all-inclusive of all the duties that may be assigned to the incumbent.  

  • State: Develops and updates comprehensive water management, climate adaptation and drought management plans for the state of Montana and participates in state-level water supply monitoring, assessment and communication. 

  • Regional: Leads private, local, state and federal stakeholders in the development and implementation of watershed basin plans and helps build regional capacity in the Yellowstone River Basin. 

  • Local Watersheds: Leads private, local, state and federal stakeholders in the development and implementation of watershed plans and projects and helps build local capacity in the Yellowstone River Basin.

  • Project Development, Implementation, Management and Policy Development. 

  • Public Outreach and Engagement. 

Benefits: 

Live and working in Helena, Montana offers a unique blend of opportunities and natural beauty, situated between Yellowstone and Glacier National Parks.  Montana offers abundant recreational opportunities, including camping, fishing, hunting, mountain biking and hiking. 

Additional benefits include: 

  • Work/life balance with flexible schedules. 

  • Generous paid leave (vacation, sick, holidays), with vacation increasing with service. 

  • Longevity pay with continued state service. 

  • Health, dental, vision, life insurance, and flexible spending accounts. 

  • Access to free employee medical clinics and telehealth. 

  • Retirement plans (Defined Benefit and Defined Contribution plus an optional 457(b) Plan. 

  • Public Service Loan Forgiveness - may qualify you for student loan forgiveness. 

  • Career progression, professional development and state employee discounts. 

  • Up to 15 days of military leave with full pay. 

Minimum Qualifications (Education and Experience):  
Master's degree in a field related to natural resource management, natural resource policy and planning, or public policy and planning is preferred. Five years of pertinent, progressively responsible work experience working with diverse stakeholder groups on natural resource issues, public involvement processes, public speaking, grant writing, grant administration and contractor oversight are also required. Excellent written and verbal communication skills. 
Education and experience equivalent and comparable to that specified above may meet job requirements and would be considered on an individual basis. 

How to Apply 

A complete state application is not required. Applicants must attach both a cover letter and resume at the time of application in order to be considered for this position. Failure to attach both required documents will result in the application being considered incomplete and not reviewed further. Materials submitted but not requested will not be considered in the selection process. When attaching documents, mark each as Relevant to ensure they are viewable. 

Required Application Materials: 

  • Cover Letter - Please explain how your education and experience help you meet the identified Knowledge, Skills and Abilities. 

  • Resume - Include all the work experience you have held that would help you qualify for this position including duties and dates of employment (month & year). 

All documents for Veteran or Disability preference must be received or date stamped by the closing date. You will receive an application confirmation email with instructions on acceptable preference documents and how to submit such documents. 

Effective May 4, 2026, this agency is participating in E-Verify to confirm employment eligibility. After accepting a job offer and completing Form I-9, your information will be submitted to the Department of Homeland Security and Social Security Administration for verification.   

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