Description

Environmental planners help provide data and make decisions related to environmental issues for their organization. Their responsibilities include providing support, guidance, and review for the various projects under their supervision. They develop and maintain quality control methods, including the creation of detailed reports and collection of data. Project management responsibilities are sometimes included as well, ranging from budget tracking to building schedules. Environmental planners coordinate with various agencies, engineers, designers, and other related workers in the field. Some positions may also require employees to make presentations on behalf of the organization as well. Environmental planners must stay up to date on relevant environmental regulations, standards, and best practices. The majority of the environmental planners' work takes place in an office environment, although travel to work sites is occasionally required.Educational requirements vary depending on the company and position, but usually a bachelor’s degree in environmental studies or another relevant field is the minimum educational requirement; some positions will require master's degrees. Experience requirements vary as well, but many jobs require at least five to 10 years of relevant experience. Some also require specialized training, which may include training on surveying various environments to Geographic Information Systems (GIS) training. A driver's license may be required as well to meet travel requirements. Some positions may require physical capabilities such as extensive walking, crawling, lifting, or using tools.

Roles & Responsibilities

As an Environmental Planner with 0-3 years of experience in Canada, your main responsibilities include:

  • Conducting research and data analysis on environmental policies, regulations, and land use patterns to inform planning decisions.
  • Assisting in the preparation of environmental impact assessments and reports to ensure compliance with regulations and guidelines.
  • Collaborating with project teams and stakeholders to develop sustainable land use plans and strategies that minimize environmental impacts.
  • Participating in public consultations and engagement activities to gather feedback and address community concerns regarding environmental planning initiatives.

Qualifications & Work Experience

For an Environmental Planner, the following qualifications are required:

  • In-depth knowledge of environmental regulations and policies to assess the impact of development projects on the environment and ensure compliance.
  • Strong analytical and research skills to evaluate data, conduct environmental assessments, and develop strategies for sustainable land use and resource management.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate with stakeholders, including government agencies, community groups, and businesses, to develop and implement effective environmental plans.
  • Effective project management abilities to coordinate and oversee environmental planning projects, including conducting public consultations, preparing reports, and monitoring project progress.

Essential Skills For Environmental Planner

1

Environmental Economics

2

Environmental Awareness

3

Environmental Engineering

4

Environmental Protection

Skills That Affect Environmental Planner Salaries

Different skills can affect your salary. Below are the most popular skills and their effect on salary.

Environmental Economics

3%

Writing Skills

2%

Project Management

9%

Strategic Planning

12%

Career Prospects

For an Environmental Planner job role with 0-3 years of experience in Canada, there are several alternative roles to consider. Here are four options:

  • Sustainability Coordinator: A role that involves promoting sustainable practices within an organization, conducting environmental audits, and implementing green initiatives.
  • Environmental Compliance Officer: A position focused on ensuring compliance with environmental regulations, conducting inspections, and developing and implementing environmental management systems.
  • Conservation Technician: A role that involves conducting field surveys, collecting and analyzing environmental data, and assisting in the development and implementation of conservation plans.
  • Environmental Educator: A position focused on raising awareness about environmental issues, developing educational programs, and delivering presentations and workshops to various audiences.

How to Learn

The role of Environmental Planner in Canada is expected to experience steady growth in the market. According to a 10-year analysis, employment opportunities for environmental planners are projected to increase. With rising concerns over environmental sustainability and regulatory compliance, the demand for professionals in this field is expected to rise. Furthermore, the Canadian government's commitment to tackling climate change and promoting sustainable development will likely contribute to the growth of this job role. While specific numbers on future employment opportunities are not mentioned, the overall projection indicates a positive outlook for individuals pursuing a career as an Environmental Planner in Canada.