Environmental & Natural Resource Policy
Within Policy jobs you will analyze, evaluate, and improve critical operations, procedures, and processes that support a multitude of missions. You will also develop, evaluate, and revise programs to meet goals. You may expand to providing a variety of management services that are essential to the direction and operation of offices and units across multiple fields, agencies, or businesses.
Industry Insights
A high-level pulse check on talent demand, projected growth, compensation, and how work typically happens across this pathway.
Estimated employment nationwide in 2024
Projected change in employment through 2034
Mid-career annual salary (nationwide median)
How the work is typically performed
Frequent travel
Career Pathways & Progression
Position Responsibilities
Entry‑level professionals support research and policy development by collecting data, conducting literature reviews, coordinating meetings and communications, and assisting with drafting reports or comment letters. They may serve as legislative or regulatory aides, research assistants, or policy interns in government agencies, NGOs, or consulting firms.
Job Types & Titles
- Legislative assistant
- Research assistant
- Policy intern
Qualifications Snapshot
Education
Bachelor’s degree in environmental policy, public policy, political science, environmental studies or a related field.
Certifications
None required; completion of NEPA or environmental law short courses can be helpful.
Experience
Internship or volunteer experience in a policy or advocacy organization.
Position Responsibilities
Technician‑level specialists interpret environmental regulations, prepare environmental impact statements and regulatory comment letters, track legislative developments, and ensure projects comply with laws like NEPA. They often work closely with lawyers, scientists and engineers to prepare analyses and communicate requirements to clients or agencies.
Job Types & Titles
- Regulatory compliance specialist
- Environmental policy technician
- Planning technician
Qualifications Snapshot
Education
Bachelor’s degree with additional coursework or certificate in environmental law, planning or compliance.
Certifications
Certificate in Environmental Policy or NEPA compliance training.
Experience
1-3 years of related experience in regulatory analysis, planning, or environmental compliance.
Position Responsibilities
Professional‑level policy analysts and advisors develop, evaluate and implement environmental policies and programs. They synthesize scientific and economic data, model policy impacts, draft legislation, engage with stakeholders, and may represent organizations in meetings or hearings. Positions typically require advanced degrees and substantial subject‑matter expertise.
Job Types & Titles
- Environmental policy analyst
- Policy advisor
- Program manager
Qualifications Snapshot
Education
Master’s degree in public policy (MPP), public administration (MPA), environmental management, or a related field.
Certifications
Certified Public Manager (CPM), Certified Environmental Professional (CEP) or Project Management Professional (PMP) are beneficial.
Experience
3-7 years of policy analysis, program management, or legislative experience.
Position Responsibilities
Senior managers and directors lead policy departments, set strategic agendas, oversee budgets and teams, negotiate with high‑level stakeholders, and shape organizational policy positions. They may serve as executive directors of NGOs, division chiefs in agencies, or partners in consulting firms.
Job Types & Titles
- Policy director
- Public affairs manager
- Chief policy officer
Qualifications Snapshot
Education
Master’s or doctoral degree in policy, law, or business; leadership training.
Certifications
Executive leadership certificates or advanced project management credentials.
Experience
7+ years of progressively responsible experience in environmental policy, including supervision and strategic planning.
Who Hires Environmental & Natural Resource Policy Professionals?
Explore leading organizations in this field and discover career opportunities.
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
U.S. Forest Service
Office of Management and Budget (OMB) - Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs (OIRA)
Booz Allen Hamilton
ICF International
World Resources Institute (WRI)
Resources for the Future (RFF)
Brookings Institution
Environmental Law Institute (ELI)
State Legislative Analyst Offices (e.g., California Legislative Analyst’s Office)
Education & Certification
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Academic Programs
Professional Certifications
Microcredentials & Specialized Training
Words from the Field
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Jobs in Environmental & Natural Resource Policy
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