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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Job Posting: Senior Environmental Scientist (Specialist)
Department of Pesticide Regulation
SENIOR ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENTIST (SPECIALIST)
$8,055.00 - $11,269.00 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: 11/20/2026
Job Description and Duties
Are you interested in a meaningful and impactful career? Would you like to contribute to protecting people and the environment and accelerating a statewide transition to sustainable pest management? The Department of Pesticide Regulation (DPR) could be the place for you!
This position plays an important role in the implementation of DPR’s statewide pesticide registration program that is responsible for evaluating the impact of proposed pesticide products on human health and the environment. Working under the general direction of the Environmental Program Manager I (Supervisory), the Senior Environmental Scientist (Specialist) performs a range of duties including but not limited to:
- Independently researches, analyzes, and develops proposed environmental permitting packages on the Department’s proposed registration decisions, including public reports, consistent with the program’s functional equivalency status under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). Evaluates, analyzes, interprets, and summarizes complex scientific data/evaluations of data in the scientific disciplines of toxicology, ecotoxicology, chemistry, environmental fate, microbiology, air, and water supporting the registration or amendment of pesticide products to protect the state’s natural resources and public health, and carries out the goals and objectives of the program. Assesses chemical and non-chemical alternative pest control methods relative to their potential for human health and environmental impacts using federal and state guidelines and scientific standards. Researches, analyzes, and evaluates pest management practices and pesticide use data to support assessments of pest management alternatives and cumulative impacts.
- Analyzes and responds to public comments raising significant adverse environmental points on proposed registration decisions. Informs the pesticide manufacturer of the comment, analyzes pesticide manufacturer’s response, and drafts written responses to complex public comments. Ensures responses to all written comments meet CEQA requirements for public postings of the Department’s final registration decisions.
- Performs critical and complex pest management analysis, assessment, research, and investigations to determine similarity of new and amended pesticide product formulations and compares intended uses to previously approved pesticide products. Assesses percentage and composition of chemicals, pest organisms (including insects, plants, and microbes), methods of pesticide applications, and application rates on pesticide labels.
You will find additional information about the job in the Duty Statement.
Working Conditions
The duties of this position are performed indoors in a high-rise building. The candidate must possess the ability to:
- Use a computer monitor, mouse, and keyboard within an 8-hour day.
- Lift data volumes weighing up to 10 pounds.
Beginning July 1st, 2026, it is anticipated this position will be office-centered and employees will be expected to report to the office at least four days per week.
Position Details
Department Information
DPR values 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 protect human health and the environment by fostering sustainable pest management and regulating pesticides. Join DPR to improve the lives of all Californians.
In compliance with federal law, all hires will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire. (Note: The Department of Pesticide Regulation does not sponsor visas.)
DPR Recruitment Survey – Please click here to complete the survey.
Special Requirements
- This position is designated Conflict of Interest and requires disclosure of economic interests.
- If education is required to meet the minimum qualifications, you must include a copy of your degree and/or unofficial transcripts in order to verify you meet the minimum qualifications. If you use unofficial transcripts to verify you meet the minimum qualifications, you must provide official transcripts prior to your start date, if selected for the position.
- Please do not include any confidential information on any documents you submit for this job vacancy. Confidential information includes, but is not limited to: basis of eligibility, examination results, LEAP status, Social Security Number (SSN), birthdate, marital status, age, national origin, medical conditions, and use of medical leave.
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: 11/20/2026Who 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.
- Degree and/or School Transcripts
- Supplemental Application - A response to the supplemental question is required to be considered interested/eligible in the position. The supplemental question and instructions are listed in the "Supplemental Questionnaire" section of this advertisement. You must answer the supplemental question in its entirety and follow all instructions for answering the question in order to be considered interested/eligible in the position.
Desirable Qualifications
- Excellent scientific writing and oral communication skills
- Ability to communicate respectfully and with sensitivity
- Strong attention to detail
- Strong analytical and critical thinking skills
- Knowledge of pest management practices and pesticide use
- Ability to apply scientific methods and principles
- Ability to analyze, evaluate, and summarize complex information, scientific data, and environmental reports to reach sound conclusions
- Ability to work independently, organize and set priorities on assignments, and meet deadlines
- Ability to apply federal and state laws, rules, regulations, and/or requirements
- Knowledge or experience working with diverse cultural communities
- Awareness of diverse communities and regional demographics
Benefits
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.
Lauren Texeira
(916) 322-9941
lauren.texeira@cdpr.ca.gov
Cory Furuoka
(916) 445-7243
cory.furuoka@cdpr.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:EEO Office
(916) 445-3979
alexis.carriker@cdpr.ca.gov
Supplemental Questionnaire
You must answer the supplemental question in its entirety and follow all instructions for answering the question in order to be considered interested/eligible in the position.
Instructions:
Your response should be typewritten, no more than one 8.5" x 11" page in length, using standard margins and 12-point font. Include your name at the top of the page. You do not need to retype the question in your response.
Question:
The Senior Environmental Scientist (Specialist) will evaluate complex scientific information to develop public reports explaining how the Department of Pesticide Regulation’s decisions to register or amend pesticide products do not pose significant adverse impacts to human health and the environment.
Provide a specific example of a time you evaluated complex scientific or technical information to develop a recommendation, conclusion, or written product. In your response, describe:
- the situation and your role
- the scientific or technical information you evaluated
- how the experience relates to the duties for this position
Critical Job Competencies
Effective Communication: Clearly conveys and receives information and ideas through a variety of media to and from individuals or groups in a manner that engages and creates greater understanding of the message. Translate complex or technical information to lay audiences/customers.
Organization and Planning: Prioritizes tasks, establishes sequential activities, and sets a reasonable pace. Coordinates realistic timeframes and delivers services in a timely manner.
Takes Action and Shows Initiative: Work well independently and is self-motivated to take action to meet critical organizational/program/unit goals. Demonstrates strong work ethic.
Relationship and Partnership Building: Builds and effectively utilizes relationship networks to achieve goals. Shares knowledge and builds trust with colleagues and superiors. Works through complex situations effectively, diplomatically, and with sensitivity without losing credibility or trust.
Problem Solving: Employ analytical abilities, pragmatism, and other tools necessary to resolve complex problems in a variety of situations. Shows enthusiasm for tackling technical and intellectually complex issues.
Political Acumen: Identify the internal and external politics that impact the work of the organization; perceive organizational and political reality and act accordingly; consider a broad range of internal and external factors (big picture) when solving problems and making decisions; identify critical, high payoff strategies and prioritize work efforts accordingly; in taking action, demonstrate an understanding and consideration of how it will impact stakeholders and affected areas in the organization; formulate strategies that are achievable, cost effective, and address administration and organizational goals; develop and balance operational and strategic management skills; and create a strategic frame of reference.
Effective Negotiation: Effectively reach understanding and agreement with a broad range of people internally and externally. Use facts and arguments to create a meeting of the minds among stakeholders with different viewpoints.
Analytical Thinking: Approaches a problem by using a logical, systematic, and sequential approach.
Technical Credibility: Understands and appropriately applies procedures, requirements, policies, and regulations related to specialized expertise. Integrate technology into the work to improve program effectiveness.
Teamwork: Facilitates and maintains cooperative working relationships. Works toward accomplishment of group goals. Fosters commitment, team spirit, pride, and trust.
Customer Service Orientation: Works to ensure stakeholders receive high quality information, that their feedback is acted upon, and that their complaints are handled effectively. Develops trust and credibility with stakeholders.
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: Senior Environmental Scientist (Specialist)
Department of Pesticide Regulation
SENIOR ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENTIST (SPECIALIST)
$8,055.00 - $11,269.00 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: 11/20/2026
Job Description and Duties
Are you interested in a meaningful and impactful career? Would you like to contribute to protecting people and the environment and accelerating a statewide transition to sustainable pest management? The Department of Pesticide Regulation (DPR) could be the place for you!
This position plays an important role in the implementation of DPR’s statewide pesticide registration program that is responsible for evaluating the impact of proposed pesticide products on human health and the environment. Working under the general direction of the Environmental Program Manager I (Supervisory), the Senior Environmental Scientist (Specialist) performs a range of duties including but not limited to:
- Independently researches, analyzes, and develops proposed environmental permitting packages on the Department’s proposed registration decisions, including public reports, consistent with the program’s functional equivalency status under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). Evaluates, analyzes, interprets, and summarizes complex scientific data/evaluations of data in the scientific disciplines of toxicology, ecotoxicology, chemistry, environmental fate, microbiology, air, and water supporting the registration or amendment of pesticide products to protect the state’s natural resources and public health, and carries out the goals and objectives of the program. Assesses chemical and non-chemical alternative pest control methods relative to their potential for human health and environmental impacts using federal and state guidelines and scientific standards. Researches, analyzes, and evaluates pest management practices and pesticide use data to support assessments of pest management alternatives and cumulative impacts.
- Analyzes and responds to public comments raising significant adverse environmental points on proposed registration decisions. Informs the pesticide manufacturer of the comment, analyzes pesticide manufacturer’s response, and drafts written responses to complex public comments. Ensures responses to all written comments meet CEQA requirements for public postings of the Department’s final registration decisions.
- Performs critical and complex pest management analysis, assessment, research, and investigations to determine similarity of new and amended pesticide product formulations and compares intended uses to previously approved pesticide products. Assesses percentage and composition of chemicals, pest organisms (including insects, plants, and microbes), methods of pesticide applications, and application rates on pesticide labels.
You will find additional information about the job in the Duty Statement.
Working Conditions
The duties of this position are performed indoors in a high-rise building. The candidate must possess the ability to:
- Use a computer monitor, mouse, and keyboard within an 8-hour day.
- Lift data volumes weighing up to 10 pounds.
Beginning July 1st, 2026, it is anticipated this position will be office-centered and employees will be expected to report to the office at least four days per week.
Position Details
Department Information
DPR values 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 protect human health and the environment by fostering sustainable pest management and regulating pesticides. Join DPR to improve the lives of all Californians.
In compliance with federal law, all hires will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire. (Note: The Department of Pesticide Regulation does not sponsor visas.)
DPR Recruitment Survey – Please click here to complete the survey.
Special Requirements
- This position is designated Conflict of Interest and requires disclosure of economic interests.
- If education is required to meet the minimum qualifications, you must include a copy of your degree and/or unofficial transcripts in order to verify you meet the minimum qualifications. If you use unofficial transcripts to verify you meet the minimum qualifications, you must provide official transcripts prior to your start date, if selected for the position.
- Please do not include any confidential information on any documents you submit for this job vacancy. Confidential information includes, but is not limited to: basis of eligibility, examination results, LEAP status, Social Security Number (SSN), birthdate, marital status, age, national origin, medical conditions, and use of medical leave.
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: 11/20/2026Who 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.
- Degree and/or School Transcripts
- Supplemental Application - A response to the supplemental question is required to be considered interested/eligible in the position. The supplemental question and instructions are listed in the "Supplemental Questionnaire" section of this advertisement. You must answer the supplemental question in its entirety and follow all instructions for answering the question in order to be considered interested/eligible in the position.
Desirable Qualifications
- Excellent scientific writing and oral communication skills
- Ability to communicate respectfully and with sensitivity
- Strong attention to detail
- Strong analytical and critical thinking skills
- Knowledge of pest management practices and pesticide use
- Ability to apply scientific methods and principles
- Ability to analyze, evaluate, and summarize complex information, scientific data, and environmental reports to reach sound conclusions
- Ability to work independently, organize and set priorities on assignments, and meet deadlines
- Ability to apply federal and state laws, rules, regulations, and/or requirements
- Knowledge or experience working with diverse cultural communities
- Awareness of diverse communities and regional demographics
Benefits
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.
Lauren Texeira
(916) 322-9941
lauren.texeira@cdpr.ca.gov
Cory Furuoka
(916) 445-7243
cory.furuoka@cdpr.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:EEO Office
(916) 445-3979
alexis.carriker@cdpr.ca.gov
Supplemental Questionnaire
You must answer the supplemental question in its entirety and follow all instructions for answering the question in order to be considered interested/eligible in the position.
Instructions:
Your response should be typewritten, no more than one 8.5" x 11" page in length, using standard margins and 12-point font. Include your name at the top of the page. You do not need to retype the question in your response.
Question:
The Senior Environmental Scientist (Specialist) will evaluate complex scientific information to develop public reports explaining how the Department of Pesticide Regulation’s decisions to register or amend pesticide products do not pose significant adverse impacts to human health and the environment.
Provide a specific example of a time you evaluated complex scientific or technical information to develop a recommendation, conclusion, or written product. In your response, describe:
- the situation and your role
- the scientific or technical information you evaluated
- how the experience relates to the duties for this position
Critical Job Competencies
Effective Communication: Clearly conveys and receives information and ideas through a variety of media to and from individuals or groups in a manner that engages and creates greater understanding of the message. Translate complex or technical information to lay audiences/customers.
Organization and Planning: Prioritizes tasks, establishes sequential activities, and sets a reasonable pace. Coordinates realistic timeframes and delivers services in a timely manner.
Takes Action and Shows Initiative: Work well independently and is self-motivated to take action to meet critical organizational/program/unit goals. Demonstrates strong work ethic.
Relationship and Partnership Building: Builds and effectively utilizes relationship networks to achieve goals. Shares knowledge and builds trust with colleagues and superiors. Works through complex situations effectively, diplomatically, and with sensitivity without losing credibility or trust.
Problem Solving: Employ analytical abilities, pragmatism, and other tools necessary to resolve complex problems in a variety of situations. Shows enthusiasm for tackling technical and intellectually complex issues.
Political Acumen: Identify the internal and external politics that impact the work of the organization; perceive organizational and political reality and act accordingly; consider a broad range of internal and external factors (big picture) when solving problems and making decisions; identify critical, high payoff strategies and prioritize work efforts accordingly; in taking action, demonstrate an understanding and consideration of how it will impact stakeholders and affected areas in the organization; formulate strategies that are achievable, cost effective, and address administration and organizational goals; develop and balance operational and strategic management skills; and create a strategic frame of reference.
Effective Negotiation: Effectively reach understanding and agreement with a broad range of people internally and externally. Use facts and arguments to create a meeting of the minds among stakeholders with different viewpoints.
Analytical Thinking: Approaches a problem by using a logical, systematic, and sequential approach.
Technical Credibility: Understands and appropriately applies procedures, requirements, policies, and regulations related to specialized expertise. Integrate technology into the work to improve program effectiveness.
Teamwork: Facilitates and maintains cooperative working relationships. Works toward accomplishment of group goals. Fosters commitment, team spirit, pride, and trust.
Customer Service Orientation: Works to ensure stakeholders receive high quality information, that their feedback is acted upon, and that their complaints are handled effectively. Develops trust and credibility with stakeholders.
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 91 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
- Mining & Natural Resources
- Education
- Science & Research
- Aerospace & Defense
- Staffing & Recruiting
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 Veolia, County of Santa Cruz, and Triumvirate Environmental, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of November 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, Los Angeles, and Santa Cruz 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 45% of environmental specialist openings tied to California are remote or hybrid as of November 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 91 Environmental Specialist Jobs in California
Find roles in California that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
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