Assistant Environmental Planner

LSA Associates INC is hiring an Assistant Environmental Planner in Irvine, CA. The role involves preparing technical reports and environmental documentation under a Project Manager, focusing on CEQA and NEPA compliance. Candidates should have 1-2 years of experience or be entry-level with relevant degrees. The position offers flexible schedules and potential hybrid remote opportunities, alongside travel to project sites. Strong communication and organizational skills are essential.
LSA is seeking an Assistant Environmental Planner to join the team in its Irvine office. Under the direction of a Project Manager, the Assistant Environmental Planner will work collaboratively with colleagues and clients to prepare technical reports and environmental documentation, primarily in compliance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) (e.g., Initial Studies and Environmental Impact Reports), for both public and private projects.

The Assistant Environmental Planner will also conduct research for the preparation of environmental documents; compile and analyze a project’s consistency with applicable planning policies; compile and analyze data (e.g., demographic, public utilities, and public services data); draft topical sections of CEQA and NEPA documents based on information provided in technical reports; compile and organize administrative records, project files, and quality assurance/quality control documentation; assist in document production and transmittal, including coordinating deliverables; and provide support for proposal preparation. The successful candidate will be self-motivated and possess solid decision-making, writing, and research skills; will value a culture of teamwork; and will promote quality service to LSA’s clients.

LSA offers a supportive and intellectually challenging work environment. At LSA, all staff have the opportunity to work on a diversity of interesting projects in urban and rural environments and across market sectors throughout the State. The Assistant Environmental Planner will be encouraged to pursue their interests and to grow their careers in the environmental profession while being mentored by LSA’s recognized experts in environmental planning and other technical disciplines.

Flexible workplace schedules may be arranged and allow for potential hybrid in-office/remote opportunities, subject to supervisor discretion. From time to time, travel to project sites and client meetings is also required.

Requirements
• 1 to 2 years of experience in environmental planning is preferred, but entry-level candidates will also be considered
• A practical understanding of CEQA and/or NEPA, as well as knowledge of other federal, State, and local environmental statutes and regulations, is highly desirable
• Bachelor’s degree in Urban Planning, Environmental Studies, Environmental Planning, or a related field
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Excellent organizational and scheduling skills
• Excellent attention to detail and the ability to work as a member of a fast-paced team
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite applications (Word, Excel, and PowerPoint). Must be proficient with MS Excel.

Compensation

The salary range for this position is $49,000 to $78,000 per year. The compensation offer will be commensurate with the candidate's qualifications and experience.

About the Organization

LSA is a diversified environmental, transportation, and community planning organization. We are recognized as innovators in the field of environmental impact assessment, and we have developed a reputation among clients and professional peers in both the public and private sectors as being thorough, innovative, and objective.

LSA's employee-owners are its most valuable resource. LSA fosters professional development and personal growth in an environment that offers opportunities for training and enrichment. LSA takes great pride in its work and looks for talented, dedicated professionals to join its team. We are always looking for energetic and enthusiastic people. If you enjoy working with clients and colleagues to plan and manage projects, we would like to hear from you.

LSA offers competitive pay, and for all eligible employees medical, dental, vision, long term disability, long-term care, group life/AD&D insurance plans; vacation, sick, and holiday pay; an Employee Stock Ownership Plan; and a Profit Sharing and Savings Plan with 401k safe harbor match.

For more details about our employee benefits package please visit our Careers Page on our company website.

EOE Statement

LSA is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer and participates in E-Verify.

LSA provides equal employment and advancement opportunities to all individuals. All employment decisions at LSA are based on merit, qualifications, and abilities. Except where required or permitted by law, employment decisions will not be influenced by an individual’s actual or perceived—or association with others of an actual or perceived—age, ancestry, color, religious creed (including religious dress and grooming practices), denial of Family and Medical Care Leave, disability (mental and physical), marital status, medical condition, genetic information, military and veteran status, national origin, race, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, and medical conditions related to pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding), gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, or any other basis protected by federal, State, or local laws.

Experience
Required
• 1 - 2 years: 1 to 2 years of experience in environmental planning.

Education
Required
• Bachelors or better in Environmental Planning or related field
• Bachelors or better in Environmental Studies or related field
• Bachelors or better in Urban Planning or related field

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.