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Beekeeper Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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Beekeeper information

See California salary details

$29.6K

$49.8K

$70.6K

How much do beekeeper jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for beekeeper in California is $49,847.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $37,500.00 and $69,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a beekeeper do?

A beekeeper is responsible for the care and management of bee colonies, typically in hives, to produce honey, beeswax, and other bee products. Their duties include monitoring bee health, preventing and treating diseases, managing hive populations, and ensuring the bees have enough food and water. Beekeepers also harvest honey and other products, maintain equipment, and may relocate hives or breed bees. The role requires attention to detail, knowledge of bee behavior, and sometimes physical labor. Beekeepers play an important part in supporting pollination and agriculture.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a beekeeper?

To thrive as a Beekeeper, you need a solid understanding of bee biology, hive management, and basic agricultural practices, often acquired through hands-on experience or courses in apiculture. Familiarity with tools such as smokers, hive tools, protective gear, and sometimes record-keeping software is typical. Attention to detail, patience, and effective problem-solving are crucial soft skills for managing bee colonies and responding to environmental changes. These skills and qualities are essential to maintain healthy hives, optimize honey production, and ensure the sustainability of bee populations.

What are some common challenges beekeepers face during the active beekeeping season?

During the active season, beekeepers often contend with challenges such as managing hive health, preventing and controlling pests like Varroa mites, and ensuring colonies have enough food sources. Weather conditions can also impact bee activity and honey production, requiring adaptability and close monitoring. Additionally, beekeepers must regularly inspect hives for signs of disease or swarming and stay informed about best practices to maintain colony strength and productivity.

What is the difference between Beekeeper vs Apiary Technician?

AspectBeekeeperApiary Technician
Required CredentialsBeekeeper certification or experience, sometimes specialized in apicultureTechnical or vocational training in apiary work, certifications vary
Work EnvironmentBees, hives, outdoor apiary sitesApiary sites, equipment maintenance, hive inspections
Employer & Industry UsageBeekeeping farms, honey producers, agricultural sectorsApiary service companies, research labs, honey producers

Beekeepers and Apiary Technicians both work in apiary environments, but beekeepers often manage entire hives and honey production, while Apiary Technicians focus on hive maintenance and technical support. The roles overlap in skills and industry, but differ in scope and responsibilities.

How can I start being a beekeeper?

To become a beekeeper, you should learn about beekeeping practices, acquire necessary equipment such as protective gear and hive tools, and consider taking a beginner course or apprenticeship. Gaining hands-on experience and understanding bee biology are essential for managing hives effectively and safely.

How do you get a job as a beekeeper?

To become a beekeeper, gaining hands-on experience through volunteering or apprenticeships is valuable, along with knowledge of bee biology and hive management. Many beekeepers start with basic equipment and may pursue certifications from agricultural or apiculture organizations to improve employment prospects.

How much money do beekeepers make?

Beekeepers' earnings vary based on experience, scale of operation, and location. On average, hobbyist beekeepers earn little or no income, while commercial beekeepers can make from $30,000 to over $100,000 annually, especially if they sell honey, beeswax, and other products. Many beekeepers supplement income through related activities or certifications in apiculture.

Is there a demand for beekeepers?

Beekeepers are in demand due to increasing awareness of the importance of pollination and honey production. The job often requires knowledge of hive management, pest control, and environmental conditions, with opportunities available in agriculture, research, and commercial honey production sectors.

What are the most commonly searched types of Beekeeper jobs in California?

The most popular types of Beekeeper jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Beekeeper jobs in California?

For Beekeeper jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Beekeeper jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Beekeeper jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Beekeeper jobs?

Cities in California with the most Beekeeper job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Beekeeper jobs in CA?

For Beekeeper jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Beekeeper jobs near you
Infographic showing various Beekeeper job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 73% Full Time, and 27% Part Time. Highlights an 89% Physical, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,847 per year, or $24 per hour.

Local Beekeeping Partner

Los Angeles, CA

Alveole Partnerships
See more jobs at Alveole Partnershipsexternal

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

Opportunity: Urban Beekeeper 
Location: Los Angeles and surrounding area 
Type of contract: 1099 Contractor 
Time commitment: Flexible
Starting date: August/September 2026
 
 
Looking for a flexible way to share your beekeeping expertise? Want more time with your hands in hives? We're looking for local beekeepers to partner with us and share the world of bees with our engaged communities.
 

What you'll do for Alvéole as an Urban Beekeeper: 

  • Maintain honey bee hives at client sites on a three-week service cycle, performing a range of tasks to support colony health throughout the beekeeping season.
  • Install new hives and related equipment at client locations.
  • Conduct routine hive inspections and maintenance.
  • Be responsible for the complete honey harvest directly from the hives (targeting a yield of 30 pounds per hive per season) and manage the final delivery of the product. 
  • Collect samples and field data to monitor hive health and environmental conditions.
  • Complete accurate record-keeping and service reports using Alvéole's digital tools.
  • Perform pest and parasite monitoring and treat as required.
  • Facilitate educational workshops and engage the public in beekeeping and biodiversity topics.
  • Regularly travel by car to client sites, apiary yards, equipment depots, and bee suppliers.
  • Engage with clients during visits and workshops  to explain Alvéole's services, including beehives, beehomes, and biodiversity data collection.
  • Complete accurate digital records and service reports using Alvéole's tools (e.g., Zuper)

What's in It for You: 

  • Work for yourself: Do what you do best without the level of oversight and commitment that comes with joining a company as an employee.
  • Share the wonderful world of bees: Lead workshops and be an ambassador for pollinators and food systems, bringing your bees-for-brains expertise to an engaged city audience that's eager to learn
  • A global beekeeping network: Join our Hive-Mind! You'll be part of a world-wide network of beekeepers to review data, troubleshoot, and grow with
  • Competitive compensation: Get paid a base rate paid monthly for every contract you take on, regardless of seasonal fluctuations or weather
  • Custom scheduling: We build your schedules around your capacity and availability
  • Focus on the bees: Your focus is on bee health and client visits. We take care of all the internal back and forth and administration!

What you bring:

  • Hands-on beekeeping experience and strong knowledge of hive health and seasonal management
  • Availability to service hives on a recurring schedule throughout the season
  • Ability to work independently with minimal supervision
  • Comfort using mobile and digital tools to log visits, tasks, and data (training provided)
  • Strong organizational skills and attention to detail, especially for record-keeping and compliance
  • Professional, friendly communication style 
  • Valid driver's license and reliable access to a vehicle
  • Comfort working at heights, ability to move freely (standing, stooping, walking, bending, pushing, pulling, and repetitive hand/finger motions) and lifting up to a maximum of fifty (50) pounds without assistance
  • Comfort with the reality of beekeeping hazards (stings, heavy lifting, inclement weather, etc.) 

Note: This opportunity is best suited to beekeepers who manage their own colonies or already provide beekeeping services to clients of their own. If you don't meet the criteria but are interested in learning about other ways to partner with Alvéole, please write talent@alvéole.buzz.

Apply