Environmental Planner I
The Environmental Planner I at Confidential Client supports planning and permitting efforts for linear infrastructure projects primarily in Southern California. This entry-level role involves conducting desktop environmental assessments, supporting field data collection, and collaborating with interdisciplinary teams to develop permitting strategies and project documentation. The position offers a hybrid work environment and opportunities to grow within a dynamic natural resources practice focused on sustainable management and regulatory compliance.
About Careertakes
👉 Important disclosure: Careertakes is a third-party recruiting platform supporting this hiring process. If selected, you will be employed directly by our client, Engineering.
Applicants for this role may also receive access to additional matched opportunities through the Careertakes platform.
What You’ll Do
Confidential Client is hiring an entry-level Environmental Planner to support environmental planning and permitting for linear infrastructure projects across Southern California. You will work on desktop reviews, support field data collection, and help prepare permitting and planning documents under the guidance of mid- and senior-level staff.
- Support project scoping and permitting strategies in coordination with multidisciplinary teams (biologists, cultural resources specialists, land-rights professionals, etc.).
- Perform desktop environmental assessments using GIS and other tools to identify permitting requirements.
- Draft technical sections, permitting reviews, and supporting documents with strong attention to detail.
- Maintain electronic file systems and project records.
- Conduct site visits and field assessments with technical teams; use GPS and prepare field notes.
- Balance multiple project tasks and meet deliverable deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
Location & Schedule
This role supports projects primarily in Southern California. The position follows a hybrid work structure: a mix of remote work and office time as needed for project demands. Some travel (up to ~15%) and occasional full-day fieldwork—including the ability to walk long distances and carry up to 30 lbs—are required.
Qualifications (Required)
- Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Planning, Urban Planning, Geography, Environmental Science, or a related field.
- Approximately 1 year of relevant environmental experience or an advanced degree in a related field.
- Working knowledge of California and federal permit requirements.
- Strong technical writing, time management, and communication skills.
- Familiarity with GIS and basic desktop environmental assessment methods.
Preferred Qualifications
- 2+ years in environmental consulting.
- Experience supporting planning, permitting, or construction/maintenance of electric, gas, water, sewer, pipeline, or similar linear infrastructure.
- Familiarity with regulatory frameworks and processes (CEQA, NEPA) and interaction with agencies (e.g., USFWS, USACE, BLM, state PUCs).
- Experience preparing permit applications and interdisciplinary reports.
- Comfort working with interdisciplinary teams in fast-moving project environments.
Compensation & Benefits
- Salary range: $70,304 — $89,424 per year (range provided by Confidential Client).
- Benefits may include medical, dental, vision, 401(k), life and disability insurance, paid parental leave, paid holidays, PTO accrual, and optional programs like tuition reimbursement and wellbeing benefits. Actual compensation and benefits depend on experience, location, and other factors.
Why Join Confidential Client
- Contribute to meaningful environmental planning and permitting work that supports sustainable infrastructure and natural resource management.
- Collaborate with experienced technical teams and develop a broad set of skills across permitting, site planning, wetlands, and endangered species services.
- Career growth is supported by mentorship, diverse projects, and a skills-based approach.
Physical & Travel Requirements
- Ability to conduct fieldwork for extended periods and carry up to 30 lbs.
- Comfortable using GPS devices and navigating outdoor sites.
- Willingness to travel up to ~15% for site visits and project work.
Equal Opportunity & Hiring Transparency
Careertakes and our client are Equal Opportunity Employers committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. We prohibit discrimination or harassment of any kind. To support a fair and efficient hiring process, AI tools may be used to assist with application review or resume screening. These tools do not replace human decision-making. Final hiring decisions are made by people.
If you have questions about how your data is used, please contact us directly.
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