HELIX is seeking a motivated early career Environmental Specialist to join our NorCal Environmental Planning Group. You’ll be part of a collaborative team, primarily supporting projects in the Sacramento region. If air quality, climate change, and noise analysis excite you—and you want hands-on experience with meaningful projects—this Environmental Specialist role is your opportunity to grow with purpose.
Day in the Life
As an Environmental Specialist, your days will include running air quality and noise models, interpreting regulatory guidance, collaborating with planners and engineers, and contributing to CEQA/NEPA documents. You’ll balance focused technical work with team coordination and see how your analyses directly shape real-world projects.
What You’ll Do
- Conduct air quality, GHG, energy, and noise modeling and analysis as an Environmental Specialist
- Prepare technical reports and environmental document sections (IS/MNDs, EIRs, EISs, EAs)
- Apply tools such as CalEEMod, EMFAC, AERMOD, and FHWA TNM
- Evaluate impacts and determine significance under CEQA and NEPA
- Develop mitigation measures and support alternatives analysis
- Coordinate with project managers and multidisciplinary teams
- Respond to agency and public comments with clear technical support
- Maintain quality control and regulatory compliance in all deliverables
Minimum Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in environmental science, planning, engineering, or related field
- We will consider those just graduating up to 4 years of experience supporting CEQA/NEPA air quality, GHG, or noise studies
- Proficiency with Microsoft Word/Excel
- Strong writing and verbal communication skills
Preferred Requirements
- Working knowledge of California and federal air quality, GHG, and noise regulations
- Experience with CalEEMod, EMFAC, AERMOD, HARP, and advanced noise modeling tools
- Experience preparing CEQA/NEPA environmental documents
- Master’s or PhD in a related field
Salary
The expected hourly pay is $28-$36. Pay will be based on qualifications and/or experience, with a robust benefits package.
How to Apply
Qualified candidates must apply online through Paylocity with a resume and cover letter. Begin by clicking “Apply Now” below.
HELIX is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to diversity and an inclusive work environment. We encourage all qualified applicants to apply regardless of gender, race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), parental status, national origin, disability, age, genetic information (including family medical history), political affiliation, military service or veteran status. These protections extend to all management practices and decisions, including recruitment and hiring, appraisal systems, promotions, training, and career development programs.