Environmental Specialist Jobs in California
Environmental Specialist jobs in California are among the most active in the country, concentrated in state and local government agencies, energy and utilities, construction and land development, and environmental consulting firms, with openings from entry-level field technicians through senior program managers. The heaviest hiring is in Los Angeles, Sacramento, and San Francisco, where firms like AECOM, Tetra Tech, and the California Department of Toxic Substances Control maintain significant workforces. The most in-demand specialties are hazardous materials management, CEQA compliance, and water quality assessment. Find a role that fits below and apply directly.
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Showing 5 of 83+ Environmental Specialist jobs
The Position
Environmental Specialist I Salary $94,906.00 - $116,520.00
Environmental Specialist II Salary $106,601.00 - $129,466.00
We value diversity! All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply.
The City of Santa Rosa is committed to building a workforce reflective of our community and establishing a lasting culture of equity and belonging within our organization. Our collective talents and expertise contribute to high-quality public services that support a vibrant, resilient, and inclusive City for our community and visitors. We celebrate a diverse workforce and welcome all qualified candidates to apply.
- A competitive total compensation package!
- 12 paid holidays annually, plus 1 to 3 'floating holidays' per year, depending on start date and years of service
- $500 annually for wellness
- The City is a Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF) Employer
- Paid Family Leave
About the Position
Environmental Specialist I/II is a professional-level classification responsible for implementing the City’s Creek Stewardship and stormwater compliance programs, including activities required under the NPDES municipal stormwater permit and Citywide Creek Master Plan. Responsibilities include water quality monitoring, environmental permitting and compliance, biological assessments, creek restoration, construction and stormwater inspections, spill investigations, regulatory reporting, and public outreach.
The position coordinates with City departments, regulatory agencies, contractors, community organizations, and volunteers, and may provide technical direction to interns and volunteers. Incumbents are expected to exercise initiative, sound judgment, and increasing independence in analyzing environmental requirements, developing compliance strategies, managing programs, and protecting water quality and natural resources.
Environmental Specialist I performs assignments under closer supervision while developing the skills necessary to independently administer environmental programs.
Environmental Specialist II performs more complex work with greater independence and responsibility and may provide technical direction to staff and volunteers.
The Ideal Candidate
- A strong passion for environmental protection and creek stewardship
- Knowledge of water quality parameters, watershed processes, best practices for storm water pollution prevention, and environmental regulations
- Experience enforcing or maintaining compliance with environmental regulations
- Experience collecting, analyzing, and presenting data in various formats
- Experience and enthusiasm developing and delivering environmental outreach or education campaigns to the public
- Proven skills working independently and as a member of a collaborative team
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills
Please Complete a Thoughtful, Thorough Supplemental Questionnaire Submission
As part of the selection process, your responses to these questions will be scored using criteria specific to this position. Incomplete responses, or responses such as "See Resume", may not be considered.
Examples of Duties and Responsibilities
EXAMPLES OF TYPICAL JOB FUNCTIONS (Illustrative Only)
Management reserves the right to add, modify, change, or rescind the work assignments of different positions and to make reasonable accommodations so that qualified employees can perform the essential functions of the job.
- Plans, develops, organizes, and implements water quality and biological monitoring programs required by the City’s NPDES permit and various environmental permits for public works projects; reviews, evaluates, and advises on permit requirements, applies for and coordinates permits, and conducts biological assessments and plant surveys.
- Plans, develops, prioritizes, and implements Creek Stewardship and Restoration programs, events, community engagement opportunities, and response activities; coordinates and implements volunteer opportunities, including recruiting and training volunteers.
- Establishes and maintains relationships and serves as a technical expert by analyzing and interpreting pertinent laws, codes, regulations, and permit requirements impacting projects and operations; recommends changes with appropriate action plans and timelines and develops procedures to ensure compliance; provides support during investigations and enforcement as needed.
- Plans, organizes, and implements public outreach and education strategies, events, and activities in partnership with schools and community groups; develops curricula and learning objectives and delivers content.
- Oversees the implementation of the City’s Low Impact Development program required by the Regional Water Quality Control Board and construction permits by conducting inspections, evaluating and determining compliance of residential, commercial, and municipal low impact development stormwater features, identifying and recommending corrective actions, and providing information and educating property owners.
- Plans, directs, and oversees field work associated with the Creek Master Plan including, but not limited to, restoration of riparian areas, developing and connecting recreation and transit corridors, and identifying removal of fish barriers. Writes biological assessments, conducts biological surveys, and analyzes habitat impacts; determines how to conduct various habitat and environmental analyses by gathering data, conducting statistical evaluations, assisting in identifying potential environmental permit requirements and mitigation options, evaluating effectiveness of restoration efforts, and writing reports for permitting agencies.
- Collects water quality samples; preserves and labels samples and completes documentation following chain of custody procedures; delivers samples to the laboratory.
- Oversees the maintenance and functionality of water quality monitoring equipment.
- Monitors Construction General Permit projects to ensure implementation of required mitigation measures and compliance of construction activities with discharge requirements.
- Determines compliance, appropriate response, and mitigation and abatement strategies during spill investigations and enforcement of illicit discharges to the streets, gutter, and stormwater system.
- Provides technical and functional direction to interns and volunteers; reviews and controls quality of work; inspects and evaluates work in progress and upon completion to ensure that work is performed in accordance with City standards and specifications.
- Plans, organizes, and coordinates work crews performing restoration, trail maintenance, and creek cleanup activities; and volunteers participating in natural resources and creek stewardship programs.
- Provides technical and functional direction to assigned crews and volunteers; reviews and controls quality of work; inspects and evaluates work in progress and upon completion to ensure that work is performed in accordance with City standards and specifications.
- Inspects waterways and facilities for safety and cleanup issues and possible work projects; provides recommendations to management; participates in planning future projects and work.
- Prepares requests for proposals for professional services and oversees bid processes; prepares scopes of work, budgets, and schedules; evaluates proposals and recommends award; administers contracts, supervises the work of contractors, and ensures compliance with contract and City service quality requirements; approves invoices within signature authority.
- Participates in annual budget preparation; identifies resource needs; prepares detailed cost estimates with appropriate justifications; monitors and controls expenditures.
- Monitors, controls, and maintains inventory and storage of supplies and equipment; researches available parts for quality and price; orders supplies and materials as needed.
- Researches, prepares, and submits grant applications for projects and programs.
- Prepares a variety of technical reports, letters, memoranda, correspondence, and other written materials;
- composes and presents correspondence and reports related to assigned area of responsibility.
- Attends, represents the department, and participates in public meetings, regulatory agency, and various committee and professional group meetings.
- Receives, investigates, and responds to difficult and sensitive problems and complaints in a professional manner; identifies and reports findings and takes necessary corrective action.
- Maintains accurate logs and records of work performed and materials and equipment used.
- Observes and complies with all City and mandated safety rules, regulations, and protocols.
- Performs related duties as required.
Required Qualifications
Knowledge of:
- Principles, theories, and concepts of biology, ecology, watershed sciences, and/or creek restoration.
- Environmental and pollution prevention considerations regarding design, location, and construction of public construction projects.
- Stormwater best management practices.
- Environmental regulations, permits, and reporting requirements related to creek stewardship and stormwater compliance programs.
- Principles of contract preparation and administration.
- Techniques for effectively representing the department in contacts with governmental agencies, community groups, and various business, professional, educational, regulatory, and legislative organizations.
- Recent and on-going developments, current literature, and sources of information related to assigned programs.
- Methods of identification of rare, threatened, and/or endangered species.
- Principles, practices, methods, equipment, materials, and tools used in restoration, trail maintenance, and creek cleanup activities.
- Principles of mathematics and statistics.
- Principles of providing functional direction and training.
- Principles and procedures of record keeping, report writing, and preparation of correspondence.
- Applicable federal, state, and local laws, regulatory codes, ordinances, and procedures relevant to assigned areas of responsibility.
- City and mandated safety rules, regulations, and protocols.
- Techniques for providing a high level of customer service, by effectively dealing with the public, vendors, contractors, and City staff.
- The structure and content of the English language, including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
- Modern equipment and communication tools used for business functions and program, project, and task coordination, including computers and software programs relevant to work performed.
Ability to:
- Understand, interpret, and apply all pertinent laws, codes, regulations, policies and procedures, court interpretations of laws and regulations, and standards relevant to work performed.
- Evaluate and identify strategies to achieve compliance with stormwater regulations and creek stewardship.
- Plan, coordinate, and implement community outreach and education and volunteer programs, events, and activities.
- Analyze problems, identify alternative solutions, project consequences of proposed actions, and implement recommendations in support of program and department goals and objectives.
- Conduct research, analyze and interpret data, draw conclusions, and summarize and present information, reports, and data in an effective manner.
- Prepare clear and concise reports, correspondence, and other written materials.
- Effectively represent the department in meetings with governmental agencies, community groups, and various businesses, professional, and regulatory organizations, and in meetings with individuals.
- Maintain a variety of filing, record keeping, and tracking systems of work performed.
- Plan, organize, and coordinate the work of assigned interns and volunteers; and effectively provide staff leadership and work direction.
- Adopt the City’s vision, mission, and values to provide high-quality public service and cultivate a vibrant, resilient, and livable city.
- Use tact, initiative, prudence, and independent judgment within general policy, procedural, and legal guidelines.
- Independently organize work, set priorities, meet critical deadlines, and follow-up on assignments.
- Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing, using appropriate English grammar and syntax.
- Establish, maintain, and foster positive and effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.
- Effectively use computer systems, software applications relevant to work performed, and modern business equipment to perform a variety of work tasks.
Education and Experience:
Any combination of training and experience that would provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the required qualifications would be:
Environmental Specialist I:
- Equivalent to an associate degree from an accredited college with coursework in environmental science, natural resource management, biology, earth sciences, or a closely related field; and
- One (1) year of experience in the planning, coordination, and/or implementation of restoration, trail maintenance, and creek cleanup activities and/or related projects.
Environmental Specialist II:
- Equivalent to a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with major coursework in environmental studies, environmental sciences, physical or biological sciences, or a related field; and
- Three (3) years of increasingly responsible experience performing permitting, monitoring, and environmental compliance in the wastewater and/or water industry or similar regulatory environment.
Licenses and Certifications:
- Must possess a valid US driver’s license upon date of application. Must obtain California driver’s license following hire date per California DMV regulations.
Additional Information
When assigned to an office environment, must possess mobility to work in a standard office setting and use standard office equipment, including a computer; vision to read printed materials and a computer screen; and hearing and speech to communicate in person and over the telephone; ability to stand and walk between work areas may be required. Finger dexterity is needed to access, enter, and retrieve data using a computer keyboard or calculator and to operate standard office equipment. Positions in this series occasionally bend, stoop, kneel, reach, push, and pull drawers open and closed to retrieve and file information. When assigned to field inspection, must possess mobility to work in changing site conditions; possess the strength, stamina, and mobility to perform light to medium physical work; to sit, stand, and walk on level, uneven, or slippery surfaces; to reach, twist, turn, kneel, and bend; and to operate a motor vehicle and trailer and visit various sites; operate heavy equipment within municipal services center; use common hand tools and power tools such as drills, grinders, circular saws, weed trimmers, mowers, chainsaws, and hedgers; and vision to inspect site conditions. The job involves fieldwork requiring frequent walking in operational areas to identify problems or hazards, with exposure to hazardous materials in some site locations. Employees must possess the ability to lift, carry, push, and pull materials and objects up to 50 pounds, with the use of proper equipment and/or assistance from other staff.
ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS
Employees work in an office environment with moderate noise levels, controlled temperature conditions, and no direct exposure to hazardous physical substances. Employees also work in the field and are exposed to loud noise levels, cold and hot temperatures, inclement weather conditions, road hazards, vibration, confining workspace, chemicals, mechanical and/or electrical hazards, and hazardous physical substances and fumes. Employees may interact with upset staff and/or public and private representatives in interpreting and enforcing departmental policies and procedures.
THE SELECTION PROCESS
The selection process may include a minimum qualifications assessment, an application and supplemental questionnaire review, an oral board interview, and a department selection interview.
THE CITY
The City of Santa Rosa is located just 55 miles north of San Francisco and 30 miles east of the Pacific Ocean with a population of approximately 170,000. Santa Rosa is the seat of Sonoma County and the center of trade, government, commerce, and medical facilities for the North Bay. The surrounding area is home to over a hundred wineries and vineyards, many beautiful parks and recreational facilities, and the spectacular Northern California coastline. Santa Rosa is in the center of a nationally recognized cycling area. It boasts many attractions associated with large cities, including a symphony, performing arts center, theater productions, and internationally-recognized restaurants; yet still retains the warmth and small town feel of decades past. Santa Rosa has been named one of the 50 greenest cities in the United States, and one of the top five mid-sized downtowns in California.
The City does not discriminate on the basis of disability in employment. Requests for reasonable accommodations needed to participate in the recruitment process may be made by submitting a Request for Reasonable Accommodation Form within five (5) business days of being noticed that an event requiring accommodation is occurring. You may also contact the Human Resources Department at (707) 543-3060 or jobs@srcity.org.
In addition to offering a challenging, rewarding work environment and excellent salary, the City of Santa Rosa provides a generous suite of benefits.
This job classification is in Miscellaneous Unit 6, Professional. Please click HERE to be redirected to the City's benefits information page.
The Position
Environmental Specialist I Salary $94,906.00 - $116,520.00
Environmental Specialist II Salary $106,601.00 - $129,466.00
We value diversity! All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply.
The City of Santa Rosa is committed to building a workforce reflective of our community and establishing a lasting culture of equity and belonging within our organization. Our collective talents and expertise contribute to high-quality public services that support a vibrant, resilient, and inclusive City for our community and visitors. We celebrate a diverse workforce and welcome all qualified candidates to apply.
- A competitive total compensation package!
- 12 paid holidays annually, plus 1 to 3 'floating holidays' per year, depending on start date and years of service
- $500 annually for wellness
- The City is a Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF) Employer
- Paid Family Leave
About the Position
Environmental Specialist I/II is a professional-level classification responsible for implementing the City’s Creek Stewardship and stormwater compliance programs, including activities required under the NPDES municipal stormwater permit and Citywide Creek Master Plan. Responsibilities include water quality monitoring, environmental permitting and compliance, biological assessments, creek restoration, construction and stormwater inspections, spill investigations, regulatory reporting, and public outreach.
The position coordinates with City departments, regulatory agencies, contractors, community organizations, and volunteers, and may provide technical direction to interns and volunteers. Incumbents are expected to exercise initiative, sound judgment, and increasing independence in analyzing environmental requirements, developing compliance strategies, managing programs, and protecting water quality and natural resources.
Environmental Specialist I performs assignments under closer supervision while developing the skills necessary to independently administer environmental programs.
Environmental Specialist II performs more complex work with greater independence and responsibility and may provide technical direction to staff and volunteers.
The Ideal Candidate
- A strong passion for environmental protection and creek stewardship
- Knowledge of water quality parameters, watershed processes, best practices for storm water pollution prevention, and environmental regulations
- Experience enforcing or maintaining compliance with environmental regulations
- Experience collecting, analyzing, and presenting data in various formats
- Experience and enthusiasm developing and delivering environmental outreach or education campaigns to the public
- Proven skills working independently and as a member of a collaborative team
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills
Please Complete a Thoughtful, Thorough Supplemental Questionnaire Submission
As part of the selection process, your responses to these questions will be scored using criteria specific to this position. Incomplete responses, or responses such as "See Resume", may not be considered.
Examples of Duties and Responsibilities
EXAMPLES OF TYPICAL JOB FUNCTIONS (Illustrative Only)
Management reserves the right to add, modify, change, or rescind the work assignments of different positions and to make reasonable accommodations so that qualified employees can perform the essential functions of the job.
- Plans, develops, organizes, and implements water quality and biological monitoring programs required by the City’s NPDES permit and various environmental permits for public works projects; reviews, evaluates, and advises on permit requirements, applies for and coordinates permits, and conducts biological assessments and plant surveys.
- Plans, develops, prioritizes, and implements Creek Stewardship and Restoration programs, events, community engagement opportunities, and response activities; coordinates and implements volunteer opportunities, including recruiting and training volunteers.
- Establishes and maintains relationships and serves as a technical expert by analyzing and interpreting pertinent laws, codes, regulations, and permit requirements impacting projects and operations; recommends changes with appropriate action plans and timelines and develops procedures to ensure compliance; provides support during investigations and enforcement as needed.
- Plans, organizes, and implements public outreach and education strategies, events, and activities in partnership with schools and community groups; develops curricula and learning objectives and delivers content.
- Oversees the implementation of the City’s Low Impact Development program required by the Regional Water Quality Control Board and construction permits by conducting inspections, evaluating and determining compliance of residential, commercial, and municipal low impact development stormwater features, identifying and recommending corrective actions, and providing information and educating property owners.
- Plans, directs, and oversees field work associated with the Creek Master Plan including, but not limited to, restoration of riparian areas, developing and connecting recreation and transit corridors, and identifying removal of fish barriers. Writes biological assessments, conducts biological surveys, and analyzes habitat impacts; determines how to conduct various habitat and environmental analyses by gathering data, conducting statistical evaluations, assisting in identifying potential environmental permit requirements and mitigation options, evaluating effectiveness of restoration efforts, and writing reports for permitting agencies.
- Collects water quality samples; preserves and labels samples and completes documentation following chain of custody procedures; delivers samples to the laboratory.
- Oversees the maintenance and functionality of water quality monitoring equipment.
- Monitors Construction General Permit projects to ensure implementation of required mitigation measures and compliance of construction activities with discharge requirements.
- Determines compliance, appropriate response, and mitigation and abatement strategies during spill investigations and enforcement of illicit discharges to the streets, gutter, and stormwater system.
- Provides technical and functional direction to interns and volunteers; reviews and controls quality of work; inspects and evaluates work in progress and upon completion to ensure that work is performed in accordance with City standards and specifications.
- Plans, organizes, and coordinates work crews performing restoration, trail maintenance, and creek cleanup activities; and volunteers participating in natural resources and creek stewardship programs.
- Provides technical and functional direction to assigned crews and volunteers; reviews and controls quality of work; inspects and evaluates work in progress and upon completion to ensure that work is performed in accordance with City standards and specifications.
- Inspects waterways and facilities for safety and cleanup issues and possible work projects; provides recommendations to management; participates in planning future projects and work.
- Prepares requests for proposals for professional services and oversees bid processes; prepares scopes of work, budgets, and schedules; evaluates proposals and recommends award; administers contracts, supervises the work of contractors, and ensures compliance with contract and City service quality requirements; approves invoices within signature authority.
- Participates in annual budget preparation; identifies resource needs; prepares detailed cost estimates with appropriate justifications; monitors and controls expenditures.
- Monitors, controls, and maintains inventory and storage of supplies and equipment; researches available parts for quality and price; orders supplies and materials as needed.
- Researches, prepares, and submits grant applications for projects and programs.
- Prepares a variety of technical reports, letters, memoranda, correspondence, and other written materials;
- composes and presents correspondence and reports related to assigned area of responsibility.
- Attends, represents the department, and participates in public meetings, regulatory agency, and various committee and professional group meetings.
- Receives, investigates, and responds to difficult and sensitive problems and complaints in a professional manner; identifies and reports findings and takes necessary corrective action.
- Maintains accurate logs and records of work performed and materials and equipment used.
- Observes and complies with all City and mandated safety rules, regulations, and protocols.
- Performs related duties as required.
Required Qualifications
Knowledge of:
- Principles, theories, and concepts of biology, ecology, watershed sciences, and/or creek restoration.
- Environmental and pollution prevention considerations regarding design, location, and construction of public construction projects.
- Stormwater best management practices.
- Environmental regulations, permits, and reporting requirements related to creek stewardship and stormwater compliance programs.
- Principles of contract preparation and administration.
- Techniques for effectively representing the department in contacts with governmental agencies, community groups, and various business, professional, educational, regulatory, and legislative organizations.
- Recent and on-going developments, current literature, and sources of information related to assigned programs.
- Methods of identification of rare, threatened, and/or endangered species.
- Principles, practices, methods, equipment, materials, and tools used in restoration, trail maintenance, and creek cleanup activities.
- Principles of mathematics and statistics.
- Principles of providing functional direction and training.
- Principles and procedures of record keeping, report writing, and preparation of correspondence.
- Applicable federal, state, and local laws, regulatory codes, ordinances, and procedures relevant to assigned areas of responsibility.
- City and mandated safety rules, regulations, and protocols.
- Techniques for providing a high level of customer service, by effectively dealing with the public, vendors, contractors, and City staff.
- The structure and content of the English language, including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
- Modern equipment and communication tools used for business functions and program, project, and task coordination, including computers and software programs relevant to work performed.
Ability to:
- Understand, interpret, and apply all pertinent laws, codes, regulations, policies and procedures, court interpretations of laws and regulations, and standards relevant to work performed.
- Evaluate and identify strategies to achieve compliance with stormwater regulations and creek stewardship.
- Plan, coordinate, and implement community outreach and education and volunteer programs, events, and activities.
- Analyze problems, identify alternative solutions, project consequences of proposed actions, and implement recommendations in support of program and department goals and objectives.
- Conduct research, analyze and interpret data, draw conclusions, and summarize and present information, reports, and data in an effective manner.
- Prepare clear and concise reports, correspondence, and other written materials.
- Effectively represent the department in meetings with governmental agencies, community groups, and various businesses, professional, and regulatory organizations, and in meetings with individuals.
- Maintain a variety of filing, record keeping, and tracking systems of work performed.
- Plan, organize, and coordinate the work of assigned interns and volunteers; and effectively provide staff leadership and work direction.
- Adopt the City’s vision, mission, and values to provide high-quality public service and cultivate a vibrant, resilient, and livable city.
- Use tact, initiative, prudence, and independent judgment within general policy, procedural, and legal guidelines.
- Independently organize work, set priorities, meet critical deadlines, and follow-up on assignments.
- Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing, using appropriate English grammar and syntax.
- Establish, maintain, and foster positive and effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.
- Effectively use computer systems, software applications relevant to work performed, and modern business equipment to perform a variety of work tasks.
Education and Experience:
Any combination of training and experience that would provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the required qualifications would be:
Environmental Specialist I:
- Equivalent to an associate degree from an accredited college with coursework in environmental science, natural resource management, biology, earth sciences, or a closely related field; and
- One (1) year of experience in the planning, coordination, and/or implementation of restoration, trail maintenance, and creek cleanup activities and/or related projects.
Environmental Specialist II:
- Equivalent to a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with major coursework in environmental studies, environmental sciences, physical or biological sciences, or a related field; and
- Three (3) years of increasingly responsible experience performing permitting, monitoring, and environmental compliance in the wastewater and/or water industry or similar regulatory environment.
Licenses and Certifications:
- Must possess a valid US driver’s license upon date of application. Must obtain California driver’s license following hire date per California DMV regulations.
Additional Information
When assigned to an office environment, must possess mobility to work in a standard office setting and use standard office equipment, including a computer; vision to read printed materials and a computer screen; and hearing and speech to communicate in person and over the telephone; ability to stand and walk between work areas may be required. Finger dexterity is needed to access, enter, and retrieve data using a computer keyboard or calculator and to operate standard office equipment. Positions in this series occasionally bend, stoop, kneel, reach, push, and pull drawers open and closed to retrieve and file information. When assigned to field inspection, must possess mobility to work in changing site conditions; possess the strength, stamina, and mobility to perform light to medium physical work; to sit, stand, and walk on level, uneven, or slippery surfaces; to reach, twist, turn, kneel, and bend; and to operate a motor vehicle and trailer and visit various sites; operate heavy equipment within municipal services center; use common hand tools and power tools such as drills, grinders, circular saws, weed trimmers, mowers, chainsaws, and hedgers; and vision to inspect site conditions. The job involves fieldwork requiring frequent walking in operational areas to identify problems or hazards, with exposure to hazardous materials in some site locations. Employees must possess the ability to lift, carry, push, and pull materials and objects up to 50 pounds, with the use of proper equipment and/or assistance from other staff.
ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS
Employees work in an office environment with moderate noise levels, controlled temperature conditions, and no direct exposure to hazardous physical substances. Employees also work in the field and are exposed to loud noise levels, cold and hot temperatures, inclement weather conditions, road hazards, vibration, confining workspace, chemicals, mechanical and/or electrical hazards, and hazardous physical substances and fumes. Employees may interact with upset staff and/or public and private representatives in interpreting and enforcing departmental policies and procedures.
THE SELECTION PROCESS
The selection process may include a minimum qualifications assessment, an application and supplemental questionnaire review, an oral board interview, and a department selection interview.
THE CITY
The City of Santa Rosa is located just 55 miles north of San Francisco and 30 miles east of the Pacific Ocean with a population of approximately 170,000. Santa Rosa is the seat of Sonoma County and the center of trade, government, commerce, and medical facilities for the North Bay. The surrounding area is home to over a hundred wineries and vineyards, many beautiful parks and recreational facilities, and the spectacular Northern California coastline. Santa Rosa is in the center of a nationally recognized cycling area. It boasts many attractions associated with large cities, including a symphony, performing arts center, theater productions, and internationally-recognized restaurants; yet still retains the warmth and small town feel of decades past. Santa Rosa has been named one of the 50 greenest cities in the United States, and one of the top five mid-sized downtowns in California.
The City does not discriminate on the basis of disability in employment. Requests for reasonable accommodations needed to participate in the recruitment process may be made by submitting a Request for Reasonable Accommodation Form within five (5) business days of being noticed that an event requiring accommodation is occurring. You may also contact the Human Resources Department at (707) 543-3060 or jobs@srcity.org.
In addition to offering a challenging, rewarding work environment and excellent salary, the City of Santa Rosa provides a generous suite of benefits.
This job classification is in Miscellaneous Unit 6, Professional. Please click HERE to be redirected to the City's benefits information page.
See All 83 Environmental Specialist Jobs in California
Find roles in California that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
Find Environmental Specialist JobsEnvironmental Specialist Jobs by City in California
Where California roles are concentrated, by current openings.
Environmental Specialist Job Market in California
A snapshot from current California openings, updated as new roles post.
Who's Hiring
Top Industries Hiring
- Science & Research
- Electronics & Hardware
- Aerospace & Defense
- Staffing & Recruiting
- Government & Public Sector
What California Employers Look For
The qualifications that appear most often in environmental specialist jobs across California.
- Bachelor's degree in environmental science, biology, geology, or a closely related field
- Familiarity with California Environmental Quality Act review and compliance documentation
- Experience conducting field assessments, soil sampling, or Phase I and Phase II site investigations
- Knowledge of California regulatory agencies including CalEPA, DTSC, and Regional Water Quality Control Boards
- Proficiency with ArcGIS or other geographic information systems used in environmental mapping
- Professional certification such as HAZWOPER 40-hour training or Registered Environmental Assessor preferred
Environmental Specialist Jobs in California: Frequently Asked Questions
How do you become a environmental specialist in California?
Most employers in California require at minimum a bachelor's degree in environmental science, geology, chemistry, or a related field. California does not mandate a single state license for the broad environmental specialist title, but many roles expect credentials such as the Registered Environmental Assessor designation administered through the National Registry of Environmental Professionals, or HAZWOPER certification for hazardous materials work. Strong candidates also build familiarity with CEQA and CalEPA regulatory frameworks before applying.
How much do environmental specialists make in California?
Environmental specialists 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 specialists in California?
Employers hiring environmental specialists in California right now include CalPortland, Kaiser Permanente, and SpaceX, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of August 2026. California's dense concentration of consulting firms, utility companies, and state regulatory agencies means the hiring pipeline stays active across both the public and private sectors year-round.
Which California cities have the most environmental specialist jobs?
San Diego, San Jose, and Los Angeles consistently post the most environmental specialist openings in California. Los Angeles anchors demand through large infrastructure projects, brownfield redevelopment, and a concentration of major consulting firms, while Sacramento draws hiring from state government agencies like CalEPA and DTSC, and San Francisco benefits from Bay Area tech campus expansions and regional water district work.
Are there remote environmental specialist jobs in California?
Yes, but they're relatively limited. About 31% of environmental specialist openings tied to California are remote or hybrid as of August 2026, reflecting that a significant portion of the role involves field sampling, site inspections, and regulatory agency visits that cannot be done off-site. Report writing, data analysis, CEQA document preparation, and GIS mapping are the tasks most likely to support remote or hybrid arrangements.
How can I get hired as a environmental specialist in California with little or no experience?
The most realistic entry path is through an environmental technician or field technician role, which California consulting firms and public agencies routinely fill with recent graduates. Large employers like AECOM and Tetra Tech run associate or staff-level programs that pair new hires with senior specialists on active projects. Completing a HAZWOPER 40-hour certification and gaining basic ArcGIS skills before applying gives candidates a clear edge, and internships with Regional Water Quality Control Boards or county environmental health departments provide direct California regulatory exposure.
Where can I find and apply to environmental specialist jobs in California?
You can find and apply to environmental specialist jobs in California on Migrate Mate, which lists current California openings across consulting firms, government agencies, utilities, and construction companies. Search the listings, find roles that match your background and location, and apply directly to each employer.
See All 83 Environmental Specialist Jobs in California
Find roles in California that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
Find Environmental Specialist Jobs