Project Partners is seeking an Environmental Planner with 10+ years of strong California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) experience to assist our public client in the Santa Ana area. The position will be on-site and full-time (approximately 40 hours per week).

The Senior Environmental Planner duties and responsibilities will include, but are not limited to:

• Analyze proposed projects and prepare environmental initial studies to make California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) determinations.
• Ensure that the appropriate level of environmental review under CEQA is completed with respect to CEQA guidelines and the client’s CEQA procedures manual.
• Research and compile information and data and make recommendations on a variety of matters including recommended environmental studies and CEQA documents.
• Prepare notice of exemptions, initial studies, and negative declarations pursuant to CEQA.
• Work with CEQA consultant in preparation of environmental impact reports as needed.
• Confer with and advise staff regarding CEQA procedures, standards, and information needs.
• Maintain CEQA data and files.
• Assist with public outreach activities related to CEQA and to educate the community about environmental issues and regulations.
• Review Board of Supervisors Agenda Staff Reports (ASRs) for CEQA language and recommended actions as appropriate.
• Create exhibits, reports, and presentations to inform decision makers, state and federal resource agency staff, and other stakeholders
• Other duties as assigned

Career Advantage:

The selected candidate will gain key public sector experience that can effectively position the candidate to pursue and obtain key, sought-after public sector jobs.

The Senior Environmental Planner will have:

• Bachelor’s degree in Urban or Regional Planning, Environmental Studies, or closely related field
• Experience implementing CEQA is a must
• Experience with environmental risk assessment or environmental liability and planning is a plus
• Related experience in a municipal agency is a plus
• Strong problem solving and analytical skills
• Candidates must be legally authorized to work permanently (i.e., without time limitations, without restrictions or without need for work sponsorship in the U.S.)
• Valid CA Driver’s License and proof of insurance

Technical Expertise
• Principles and practices of CEQA and environmental planning.
• Information sources and research techniques in the field of CEQA and planning.
• Statutes related to general plans, zoning and land divisions.
• Applicable environmental laws and regulations.
• Ability to interpret and understand federal, state, and local legislation, policies, regulations & issues that pertain to the assignment
• Preparation of informational, statistical, scientific, technical and compliance reports
• Ability to read and comprehend technical documents and specifications


Communication/Interpersonal Skills
• Strong verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills
• Ability to convey clearly and concisely technical and/or complex information to a diverse work group
• Ability to draft and interpret technical reports and memos
• Demonstrate a high degree of motivation and willingness to learn
• Maintain a professional perspective and objective demeanor when varied situations occur
• Review and handle complex projects involving several functional groups
• Recognize and embrace the value of safety both in the field and in the office