Environmental Scientist Jobs in California
Environmental Scientist jobs in California are among the most active in the country, concentrated in environmental consulting, state and local government agencies, and water resources management, with openings at every level from entry-level field technician to senior project scientist. The largest hiring markets are Los Angeles, Sacramento, and the San Francisco Bay Area, where employers such as AECOM, Stantec, and the California Department of Toxic Substances Control maintain a consistent presence. The most in-demand specialties include hazardous materials assessment, CEQA compliance, and air and water quality monitoring. Find a role that fits below and apply directly.
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Job Posting: Environmental Scientist
State Water Resources Control Board
ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENTIST
$4,418.00 - $9,321.00 per Month
New to State candidates will be hired into the minimum salary of the classification or minimum of alternate range when applicable.
Final Filing Date: 9/4/2026
Job Description and Duties
Please note, the Water Boards do not participate in E-Verify.
Are you interested in joining our team and protecting important watersheds, beneficial uses of water and critical wetland, stream and river habitats in Northern California? Do you have an interest in applying your education and experience as an Environmental Scientist in identifying waters of the state, analyzing projects and maintaining regulatory requirements through permitting and enforcement to protect water quality? If so, then this job may be for you. The North Coast Regional Water Quality Control Board is looking for the right person to help promote our vision statement: Healthy Watersheds, Effective Regulation, Strong Partnerships.
The North Coast Regional Water Quality Control Board’s Southern Nonpoint Source and 401 Certification Unit in the Nonpoint Source & Surface Water Protection Division has an opening for an Environmental Scientist. The position is based in Sonoma County at 5550 Skylane Blvd. Ste A, Santa Rosa, CA 95403 with available free parking and within 1.5 miles of the local Sonoma Marin Area Rapid Transit (SMART) train station. A flexible schedule and partial teleworking are negotiable for this position.
Duties: The applicants can review the Duty Statement attached.
Additional information:
Candidates must possess essential personal qualifications including integrity, initiative, dependability, good judgment, the ability to work cooperatively with others, and the ability to perform the assigned duties of the class.
If the position requires driving, you must possess a current and valid Driver’s License. Please do not include full social security number, method of eligibility, and LEAP information in your application package.
Please let us know how you heard about this position by taking this brief survey: Recruitment Survey.
You will find additional information about the job in the Duty Statement.
Working Conditions
Positions at the Water Boards may be eligible for telework with in-person attendance based on the operational needs of the position.
In accordance with the Statewide Telework Policy and GC 14200, the successful candidate must reside in California upon appointment. Proof of residency may be required.
Salary Information - CalHR salary rules allow appointment at the entrance rate (Cal. Code Regs., tit. 2, § 599.673) of a classification. For classes with alternate ranges, placement is based on education/experience. Employees appointed to the Attorney or Water Resource Control Engineer classification will receive Recruitment Higher Above Minimum (HAM) rate in accordance with the approved Civil Service Pay Scales
In addition, note: Effective July 1, 2025, the State of California implemented the Personal Leave Program 2025 (PLP 2025) which reduces an employee’s monthly salary in exchange for leave credits. Employees appointed to this classification will have their monthly salary reduced and will accrue hours of PLP 2025 on the first day of each pay period in accordance with the applicable bargaining contract. The salary range(s) included on this job posting do not reflect the reduction in pay.
Position Details
Department Information
The State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB) and the nine (9) Regional Water Quality Control Boards (RWQCB) (collectively the Water Boards) work to preserve, enhance, and restore the quality of California’s water resources and drinking water for the protection of the environment, public health, and all beneficial uses, and to ensure proper water resource allocation and efficient use, for the benefit of present and future generations.
The Water Boards value diversity, equity, and inclusion throughout the organization. We foster an environment where employees from a variety of backgrounds, cultures, and personal experiences are welcomed and can thrive. We believe the diversity of our employees is essential to inspiring innovative solutions. Together we further our mission to preserve, enhance, and restore the quality of California’s water resources and drinking water for the protection of the environment, public health, and all beneficial uses, and to ensure proper water resource allocation and efficient use, for the benefit of present and future generations. Join the Water Boards to improve the lives of all Californians.
Special Requirements
To be considered for this position, you must include the following:
- RPA# 26-110-004 in the “Examination or Job Title(s)” section of the state application when submitting a hardcopy application.
- Photocopies of degree and official transcripts (if needed to establish eligibility).
Must have Environmental Scientist list, transfer, or reinstatement eligibility and be reachable on the certification list.
Here is the link to the exam: https://calcareers.ca.gov/CalHrPublic/Exams/ExamBulletin.aspx?ExamControlId=4286.
An applicant with a college degree obtained outside the United States that does meet accreditation standards must have education records evaluated by a credential evaluation service. Evaluation of education records will be due during final minimum qualification evaluation of candidate(s). A link of accepted evaluation agencies can be found here: https://www.naces.org/members.
Electronic submittal of applications and attachments through jobs.ca.gov is preferred. Emailed or faxed applications will not be accepted. You are required to complete employment history on the application form (STD. 678), including work experience, dates, hours worked, contact names and phone numbers of supervisors on the state application. Applicants who fail to submit a completed STD. 678 may be disqualified.
In the hiring interview, the panel will consider education, experience, personal development, personal traits and fitness for the job. In appraising experience, more weight may be given to the breadth of pertinent experience and evidence of the candidate's ability to accept and fulfill increasing responsibilities than to the length of his/her experience. For additional information, you may refer to the class specification.
Application Instructions
Completed applications and all required documents must be received or postmarked by the Final Filing Date in order to be considered. Dates printed on Mobile Bar Codes, such as the Quick Response (QR) Codes available at the USPS, are not considered Postmark dates for the purpose of determining timely filing of an application.
Final Filing Date: 9/4/2026Who May Apply
Applications will be screened and only the most qualified applicants will be selected to move forward in the selection process. Applicants must meet the Minimum Qualifications stated in the Classification Specification(s).
How To Apply
Address for Mailing Application Packages
You may submit your application and any applicable or required documents to:
Address for Drop-Off Application Packages
You may drop off your application and any applicable or required documents at:
Required Application Package Documents
The following items are required to be submitted with your application. Applicants who do not submit the required items timely may not be considered for this job:
- Current version of the State Examination/Employment Application STD Form 678 (when not applying electronically), or the Electronic State Employment Application through your Applicant Account at www.CalCareers.ca.gov. All Experience and Education relating to the Minimum Qualifications listed on the Classification Specification should be included to demonstrate how you meet the Minimum Qualifications for the position.
- Resume is required and must be included.
- Statement of Qualifications - Please see below for specific requirements.
- Other - Cover letter is required and must be included.
- Other - Provide contact information for three professional references.
Desirable Qualifications
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to organize, set priorities and meet deadlines.
- Ability to work effectively with other staff, management, stakeholders and the public.
- Completed coursework or have experience in any of the following subject matters: Water quality, biology, environmental science or studies, natural resource management, stream and/or wetland restoration, wetland assessment and delineation, botany of California wetland and riparian areas, environmental regulations, or environmental chemistry.
- Experience working with state, federal and local agencies, tribes, research organizations, community members and regulated entities.
- Familiarity with Porter-Cologne Water Quality Control Act, Clean Water Act, water quality certifications and/or waste discharge requirements.
- Experience conducting site inspections, wetland delineations, or participating in field investigations.
- Knowledge of or experience with complaint investigation and enforcement actions.
- Familiarity with wetland plants and characteristics, riparian and stream function, identification and characteristics and geomorphic processes.
- Familiarity/experience with aquatic habitat restoration and mitigation.
- Knowledge or experience reviewing streams crossings, road drainage, and erosion and sediment controls on construction sites.
- Familiarity with stormwater management erosion control Best Management Practices (BMPs) and low impact development techniques and concepts.
- Experience with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) process.
- Familiarity with common applications such as Word, Excel, PowerPoint, MS Office, and Teams.
Benefits
Water Board employees may be eligible for benefits. Health benefits and leave programs are available for most permanent, full-time employees, and some permanent, part-time employees. Benefit eligibility may depend on length of service and may be subject to collective bargaining agreements negotiated between the State of California and employee organizations that define wages, hours, and terms and conditions of employment. https://www.calhr.ca.gov/Pages/California-State-Civil-Service-Employee-Benefits-Summary.aspx and Health Benefits | CalPERS.
Contact Information
The Human Resources Contact is available to answer questions regarding the application process. The Hiring Unit Contact is available to answer questions regarding the position.
Tammy Putnam
(916) 322-9955
tammy.putnam@waterboards.ca.gov
Gil Falcone
(707) 576-2066
gil.falcone@waterboards.ca.gov
Please direct requests for Reasonable Accommodations to the interview scheduler at the time the interview is being scheduled. You may direct any additional questions regarding Reasonable Accommodations or Equal Employment Opportunity for this position(s) to the Department's EEO Office.
EEO Contact:Shyla Hoffman
(916) 341-5881
shyla.hoffman@waterboards.ca.gov
Statement of Qualifications (SOQ)
A Statement of Qualifications (SOQ) must be submitted along with the state application and serves as documentation of candidate’s ability to present information clearly and concisely in writing. It should be typed, no more than two (2) pages in length, using Arial font, size 12, and normal margins.
Indicate your total years of experience when answering the following statements/questions:
- Describe your familiarity and experience with state and federal water quality regulations, including Porter-Cologne Water Quality Control Act, 401 water quality certifications or waste discharge requirements, and water quality issues in California.
- Describe your knowledge of ecological functions associated with riparian areas, streams/rivers, and wetlands.
- Discuss your experience identifying streams and delineating wetlands or other natural resources.
- Discuss your experience conducting site inspections/field investigations.
- Discuss your experience working with state, federal agencies, tribes and community members.
- Describe your knowledge/experience with stormwater management, erosion control methods, and best management practices (BMPs) associated with roads, hillslopes, and construction sites.
Applications received without the SOQ addressed as stated will not be considered.
For guidance on writing effective SOQs, visit: Work4CA: How to Write a Statement of Qualifications. Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools can be useful in the development of written responses; however, it is important to use these tools responsibly and ethically. Failure to comply may result in disqualification.
Note: Resumes, letters, and other materials will not be evaluated or considered as a response to the SOQ.
Equal Opportunity Employer
The State of California is an equal opportunity employer to all, regardless of age, ancestry, color, disability (mental and physical), exercising the right to family care and medical leave, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, marital status, medical condition, military or veteran status, national origin, political affiliation, race, religious creed, sex (includes pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding and related medical conditions), and sexual orientation.
It is an objective of the State of California to achieve a drug-free work place. Any applicant for state employment will be expected to behave in accordance with this objective because the use of illegal drugs is inconsistent with the law of the State, the rules governing Civil Service, and the special trust placed in public servants.
Job Posting: Environmental Scientist
State Water Resources Control Board
ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENTIST
$4,418.00 - $9,321.00 per Month
New to State candidates will be hired into the minimum salary of the classification or minimum of alternate range when applicable.
Final Filing Date: 9/4/2026
Job Description and Duties
Please note, the Water Boards do not participate in E-Verify.
Are you interested in joining our team and protecting important watersheds, beneficial uses of water and critical wetland, stream and river habitats in Northern California? Do you have an interest in applying your education and experience as an Environmental Scientist in identifying waters of the state, analyzing projects and maintaining regulatory requirements through permitting and enforcement to protect water quality? If so, then this job may be for you. The North Coast Regional Water Quality Control Board is looking for the right person to help promote our vision statement: Healthy Watersheds, Effective Regulation, Strong Partnerships.
The North Coast Regional Water Quality Control Board’s Southern Nonpoint Source and 401 Certification Unit in the Nonpoint Source & Surface Water Protection Division has an opening for an Environmental Scientist. The position is based in Sonoma County at 5550 Skylane Blvd. Ste A, Santa Rosa, CA 95403 with available free parking and within 1.5 miles of the local Sonoma Marin Area Rapid Transit (SMART) train station. A flexible schedule and partial teleworking are negotiable for this position.
Duties: The applicants can review the Duty Statement attached.
Additional information:
Candidates must possess essential personal qualifications including integrity, initiative, dependability, good judgment, the ability to work cooperatively with others, and the ability to perform the assigned duties of the class.
If the position requires driving, you must possess a current and valid Driver’s License. Please do not include full social security number, method of eligibility, and LEAP information in your application package.
Please let us know how you heard about this position by taking this brief survey: Recruitment Survey.
You will find additional information about the job in the Duty Statement.
Working Conditions
Positions at the Water Boards may be eligible for telework with in-person attendance based on the operational needs of the position.
In accordance with the Statewide Telework Policy and GC 14200, the successful candidate must reside in California upon appointment. Proof of residency may be required.
Salary Information - CalHR salary rules allow appointment at the entrance rate (Cal. Code Regs., tit. 2, § 599.673) of a classification. For classes with alternate ranges, placement is based on education/experience. Employees appointed to the Attorney or Water Resource Control Engineer classification will receive Recruitment Higher Above Minimum (HAM) rate in accordance with the approved Civil Service Pay Scales
In addition, note: Effective July 1, 2025, the State of California implemented the Personal Leave Program 2025 (PLP 2025) which reduces an employee’s monthly salary in exchange for leave credits. Employees appointed to this classification will have their monthly salary reduced and will accrue hours of PLP 2025 on the first day of each pay period in accordance with the applicable bargaining contract. The salary range(s) included on this job posting do not reflect the reduction in pay.
Position Details
Department Information
The State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB) and the nine (9) Regional Water Quality Control Boards (RWQCB) (collectively the Water Boards) work to preserve, enhance, and restore the quality of California’s water resources and drinking water for the protection of the environment, public health, and all beneficial uses, and to ensure proper water resource allocation and efficient use, for the benefit of present and future generations.
The Water Boards value diversity, equity, and inclusion throughout the organization. We foster an environment where employees from a variety of backgrounds, cultures, and personal experiences are welcomed and can thrive. We believe the diversity of our employees is essential to inspiring innovative solutions. Together we further our mission to preserve, enhance, and restore the quality of California’s water resources and drinking water for the protection of the environment, public health, and all beneficial uses, and to ensure proper water resource allocation and efficient use, for the benefit of present and future generations. Join the Water Boards to improve the lives of all Californians.
Special Requirements
To be considered for this position, you must include the following:
- RPA# 26-110-004 in the “Examination or Job Title(s)” section of the state application when submitting a hardcopy application.
- Photocopies of degree and official transcripts (if needed to establish eligibility).
Must have Environmental Scientist list, transfer, or reinstatement eligibility and be reachable on the certification list.
Here is the link to the exam: https://calcareers.ca.gov/CalHrPublic/Exams/ExamBulletin.aspx?ExamControlId=4286.
An applicant with a college degree obtained outside the United States that does meet accreditation standards must have education records evaluated by a credential evaluation service. Evaluation of education records will be due during final minimum qualification evaluation of candidate(s). A link of accepted evaluation agencies can be found here: https://www.naces.org/members.
Electronic submittal of applications and attachments through jobs.ca.gov is preferred. Emailed or faxed applications will not be accepted. You are required to complete employment history on the application form (STD. 678), including work experience, dates, hours worked, contact names and phone numbers of supervisors on the state application. Applicants who fail to submit a completed STD. 678 may be disqualified.
In the hiring interview, the panel will consider education, experience, personal development, personal traits and fitness for the job. In appraising experience, more weight may be given to the breadth of pertinent experience and evidence of the candidate's ability to accept and fulfill increasing responsibilities than to the length of his/her experience. For additional information, you may refer to the class specification.
Application Instructions
Completed applications and all required documents must be received or postmarked by the Final Filing Date in order to be considered. Dates printed on Mobile Bar Codes, such as the Quick Response (QR) Codes available at the USPS, are not considered Postmark dates for the purpose of determining timely filing of an application.
Final Filing Date: 9/4/2026Who May Apply
Applications will be screened and only the most qualified applicants will be selected to move forward in the selection process. Applicants must meet the Minimum Qualifications stated in the Classification Specification(s).
How To Apply
Address for Mailing Application Packages
You may submit your application and any applicable or required documents to:
Address for Drop-Off Application Packages
You may drop off your application and any applicable or required documents at:
Required Application Package Documents
The following items are required to be submitted with your application. Applicants who do not submit the required items timely may not be considered for this job:
- Current version of the State Examination/Employment Application STD Form 678 (when not applying electronically), or the Electronic State Employment Application through your Applicant Account at www.CalCareers.ca.gov. All Experience and Education relating to the Minimum Qualifications listed on the Classification Specification should be included to demonstrate how you meet the Minimum Qualifications for the position.
- Resume is required and must be included.
- Statement of Qualifications - Please see below for specific requirements.
- Other - Cover letter is required and must be included.
- Other - Provide contact information for three professional references.
Desirable Qualifications
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to organize, set priorities and meet deadlines.
- Ability to work effectively with other staff, management, stakeholders and the public.
- Completed coursework or have experience in any of the following subject matters: Water quality, biology, environmental science or studies, natural resource management, stream and/or wetland restoration, wetland assessment and delineation, botany of California wetland and riparian areas, environmental regulations, or environmental chemistry.
- Experience working with state, federal and local agencies, tribes, research organizations, community members and regulated entities.
- Familiarity with Porter-Cologne Water Quality Control Act, Clean Water Act, water quality certifications and/or waste discharge requirements.
- Experience conducting site inspections, wetland delineations, or participating in field investigations.
- Knowledge of or experience with complaint investigation and enforcement actions.
- Familiarity with wetland plants and characteristics, riparian and stream function, identification and characteristics and geomorphic processes.
- Familiarity/experience with aquatic habitat restoration and mitigation.
- Knowledge or experience reviewing streams crossings, road drainage, and erosion and sediment controls on construction sites.
- Familiarity with stormwater management erosion control Best Management Practices (BMPs) and low impact development techniques and concepts.
- Experience with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) process.
- Familiarity with common applications such as Word, Excel, PowerPoint, MS Office, and Teams.
Benefits
Water Board employees may be eligible for benefits. Health benefits and leave programs are available for most permanent, full-time employees, and some permanent, part-time employees. Benefit eligibility may depend on length of service and may be subject to collective bargaining agreements negotiated between the State of California and employee organizations that define wages, hours, and terms and conditions of employment. https://www.calhr.ca.gov/Pages/California-State-Civil-Service-Employee-Benefits-Summary.aspx and Health Benefits | CalPERS.
Contact Information
The Human Resources Contact is available to answer questions regarding the application process. The Hiring Unit Contact is available to answer questions regarding the position.
Tammy Putnam
(916) 322-9955
tammy.putnam@waterboards.ca.gov
Gil Falcone
(707) 576-2066
gil.falcone@waterboards.ca.gov
Please direct requests for Reasonable Accommodations to the interview scheduler at the time the interview is being scheduled. You may direct any additional questions regarding Reasonable Accommodations or Equal Employment Opportunity for this position(s) to the Department's EEO Office.
EEO Contact:Shyla Hoffman
(916) 341-5881
shyla.hoffman@waterboards.ca.gov
Statement of Qualifications (SOQ)
A Statement of Qualifications (SOQ) must be submitted along with the state application and serves as documentation of candidate’s ability to present information clearly and concisely in writing. It should be typed, no more than two (2) pages in length, using Arial font, size 12, and normal margins.
Indicate your total years of experience when answering the following statements/questions:
- Describe your familiarity and experience with state and federal water quality regulations, including Porter-Cologne Water Quality Control Act, 401 water quality certifications or waste discharge requirements, and water quality issues in California.
- Describe your knowledge of ecological functions associated with riparian areas, streams/rivers, and wetlands.
- Discuss your experience identifying streams and delineating wetlands or other natural resources.
- Discuss your experience conducting site inspections/field investigations.
- Discuss your experience working with state, federal agencies, tribes and community members.
- Describe your knowledge/experience with stormwater management, erosion control methods, and best management practices (BMPs) associated with roads, hillslopes, and construction sites.
Applications received without the SOQ addressed as stated will not be considered.
For guidance on writing effective SOQs, visit: Work4CA: How to Write a Statement of Qualifications. Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools can be useful in the development of written responses; however, it is important to use these tools responsibly and ethically. Failure to comply may result in disqualification.
Note: Resumes, letters, and other materials will not be evaluated or considered as a response to the SOQ.
Equal Opportunity Employer
The State of California is an equal opportunity employer to all, regardless of age, ancestry, color, disability (mental and physical), exercising the right to family care and medical leave, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, marital status, medical condition, military or veteran status, national origin, political affiliation, race, religious creed, sex (includes pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding and related medical conditions), and sexual orientation.
It is an objective of the State of California to achieve a drug-free work place. Any applicant for state employment will be expected to behave in accordance with this objective because the use of illegal drugs is inconsistent with the law of the State, the rules governing Civil Service, and the special trust placed in public servants.
See All 28 Environmental Scientist Jobs in California
Find roles in California that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
Find Environmental Scientist JobsEnvironmental Scientist Jobs by City in California
Where California roles are concentrated, by current openings.
Environmental Scientist Job Market in California
A snapshot from current California openings, updated as new roles post.
Who's Hiring
Top Industries Hiring
- Consulting & Professional Services
- Construction & Real Estate
- Government & Public Sector
What California Employers Look For
The qualifications that appear most often in environmental scientist jobs across California.
- Registered Environmental Assessor or Professional Geologist registration recognized in California preferred
- Bachelor's or master's degree in environmental science, geology, or a closely related field
- Familiarity with CEQA review processes and California environmental regulations
- Experience conducting Phase I and Phase II Environmental Site Assessments
- Proficiency in GIS software and environmental data analysis tools
- Valid California driver's license for field sampling and site visit work
Environmental Scientist Jobs in California: Frequently Asked Questions
How do you become a environmental scientist in California?
Most environmental scientist positions in California require at least a bachelor's degree in environmental science, geology, biology, or chemistry, with many senior roles expecting a master's. California does not mandate a single universal license, but the Registered Environmental Assessor credential issued through the California Environmental Protection Agency is widely recognized by employers. Professional Geologist licensure through the California Board for Professional Engineers, Land Surveyors, and Geologists strengthens candidacy for subsurface and site assessment work.
How much do environmental scientists make in California?
Environmental scientists in California earn a median of about $106,510 a year, based on May 2025 Bureau of Labor Statistics wage data, ranging from around $65,350 for the lowest 10% to over $161,910 for the top 10%. Pay rises with experience, specialty, and employer.
Which companies hire environmental scientists in California?
Employers hiring environmental scientists in California right now include QK, AECOM, and HALEY & ALDRICH, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of August 2026. California's large consulting firms, water districts, and state regulatory agencies generate particularly consistent demand throughout the year.
Which California cities have the most environmental scientist jobs?
Irvine, Clovis, and Concord have the most environmental scientist openings in California. Los Angeles and the Bay Area drive demand through large consulting firms and technology campuses with significant remediation and compliance needs, while Sacramento concentrates state agency hiring, including CalEPA, the State Water Resources Control Board, and the Department of Toxic Substances Control.
Are there remote environmental scientist jobs in California?
Yes, but they're rare. Environmental scientist work is largely field-based, involving site assessments, soil sampling, and on-site inspections that cannot be performed remotely. About 55% of environmental scientist openings tied to California are remote or hybrid as of August 2026, reflecting that most employers do allow desk-based tasks like report writing, data analysis, and regulatory document preparation to be done off-site.
How can I get hired as a environmental scientist in California with little or no experience?
The most realistic entry path is an environmental technician or field sampler role, which large California consulting firms like AECOM, Arcadis, and Jacobs regularly fill with recent graduates. Targeting positions at county environmental health departments or water agencies opens another door without requiring years of consulting experience. Earning your Registered Environmental Assessor credential early and building GIS skills gives candidates a measurable edge when competing for entry-level openings against applicants from California's many environmental science programs.
Where can I find and apply to environmental scientist jobs in California?
You can find and apply to environmental scientist jobs in California on Migrate Mate, which lists current California openings across consulting, government, and industry employers. Find roles that fit your experience and location and apply directly.
See All 28 Environmental Scientist Jobs in California
Find roles in California that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
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