Staff Environmental Planner | Planning and GIS

H2M Careers • Melville, NY

1d • $61,000 - $65,000

About The Position

A Staff Environmental Planner at H2M architects + engineers works alongside GIS specialists and planners to assist with environmental planning, permitting, and GIS projects. The Planning & GIS team provides practical, data-driven services integrating land use strategy, environmental review, and geospatial analysis. Work spans comprehensive plans, zoning initiatives, SEQRA documentation, GIS data development, mapping, asset management, and spatial analysis for public and private sector clients.

The role supports environmental review and permitting, planning studies, regulatory research, GIS-related materials, and project coordination. It involves collaborating with project managers and multidisciplinary teams, contributing to agency and client communications, and helping track project deliverables and milestones. Some travel is required, including possible visits to project sites, client locations, and other H2M offices; personal vehicle use may be necessary. This is an exempt, salaried position that may occasionally require flexibility outside standard business hours, including evenings, weekends, and select holidays.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in Environmental Science, GIS, Planning, Political Science, Engineering, or a related discipline from an accredited institution.
• 0 to 2 years of experience in environmental planning, land use planning, permitting, environmental review, or a related field.
• Strong written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills, with the ability to interact effectively with clients, agencies, stakeholders, and project team members.
• Exceptional organizational skills and attention to detail, with the ability to manage multiple assignments and competing priorities.
• Self-motivated and able to work independently while maintaining accuracy and meeting project deadlines.
• Strong critical thinking and problem-solving skills, with the ability to identify solutions and support project advancement.
• Ability to work collaboratively within multidisciplinary teams and contribute ideas professionally and constructively.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook.
• Ability to support project managers with scheduling, budgeting, coordination, and delivery of multidisciplinary planning and environmental projects.
• Ability to travel for business, potentially using a personal vehicle.

Nice To Haves

• Demonstrated interest in pursuing professional planning credentials, including AICP certification.
• Certification or experience in tidal and/or freshwater wetlands delineation.
• Familiarity with environmental review and permitting processes, including SEQRA, NEPA, and CEQR.
• Knowledge of one or more environmental planning disciplines, such as natural resources, wetlands, land use planning, transportation, infrastructure, or permitting.
• Experience with ArcGIS Pro or other GIS applications.
• Experience conducting field investigations, environmental assessments, or natural resource inventories.

Responsibilities

• Support preparation of environmental review documents, planning studies, permit applications, technical memoranda, and reports for public and private sector clients.
• Assist with coordination and execution of projects subject to SEQRA, NEPA, CEQR, and local land use approval processes.
• Conduct research and analysis related to land use, zoning, environmental regulations, demographics, community planning, transportation, and natural resources.
• Compile, organize, and evaluate environmental, planning, and regulatory data from federal, state, and local sources.
• Assist in preparing environmental assessment forms (EAFs), environmental impact statements (EISs), permit applications, and supporting documentation.
• Support preparation of planning and permitting documents.
• Perform technical writing and environmental analysis, including preparing maps, exhibits, graphics, and presentations.
• Assist project managers with project scheduling, budget tracking, task coordination, and document management.
• Participate in client meetings, agency consultations, public information meetings, and public hearings.
• Prepare meeting summaries, technical correspondence, and project communications for clients, agencies, and stakeholders.
• Track project deliverables, agency reviews, permit requirements, and project milestones to help ensure timely completion.

Benefits

• Healthcare and wellness benefits.
• 401(k) retirement savings with up to 6% employer matching contributions and a 100% vesting schedule.
• Annual and spot bonus performance programs.
• Flexibility and paid time off.
• Tuition assistance for continuing education and professional licensure.
• Student loan debt repayment program.
• Technology allowance.
• Professional development programs custom designed for employees at all levels.
• Employee Resource Groups, including Diversity and Inclusion, Sustainability, Women’s Initiative, and Young Professionals.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level