Environmental Planners

Aspiring planners should obtain several years of experience in the environmental planning field as assistants or in other positions.

A myriad of skills and character traits are required to adeptly and successfully handle the job of environmental planner. Creative and analytical thinking are key components. Planners need to be able to incorporate numerous details into their plans and visualize the effects of their designs. Diplomacy and flexibility are called upon regularly in this type of work. Planners collaborate with various team members and clients and must be able to constructively resolve differences of opinion to keep projects moving forward as well as to keep design aspects in compliance with environmental regulations. Strong knowledge of environmental policy and laws, as well as laws specific to the projects on which they are working, is required for all levels of environmental planning. Clear, strong communication skills—both written and verbal—are also essential for day-to-day tasks, including making presentations, discussing and negotiating various aspects of projects and contracts, and instructing and managing other staff and team members. The ability to work independently and as part of a team is also intrinsic to the job at all levels.