Environmental Restoration Planners

The U.S. Department of Labor predicts 7 percent employment growth, which is faster than the average, for environmental scientists and specialists in general through 2033. The ongoing public interest in the environment and heightened awareness of environmental hazards to health continue to create demand for environmental restoration planners. Government agencies will require the services of planners for help with making sure businesses and sites are environmentally compliant and that plans for future construction and land use are feasible and environmentally responsible. As the population continues to grow, local and state governments will need environmental restoration planners to consult on projects related to commercial development, housing, land use, and transportation. Demand for planners will be especially strong in fast-growing communities and areas with high rates of development and construction.

Environmental restoration planners will also be needed to help with historic preservation, redevelopment, storm water management, permits, and environmental regulation. Planners with a master's degree, strong software program skills, several years of successful work experience, and flexibility to relocate for employment will have the best job prospects.