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Earth Science Graduate Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

$89.24/hr

OR - Master's in geology, geophysics, earth sciences, meteorology, oceanography or paleontology OR ... must be 12 graduate level semester units. See Applying Through Equivalency for forms and ...

M in Science Education or a graduate degree in a science field with equivalent experience in education training. * Have a strong background in Life Science, Physical Science, or Earth Science content.

M in Science Education or a graduate degree in a science field with equivalent experience in education training. * Have a strong background in Life Science, Physical Science, or Earth Science content.

Chemistry * Dance * Earth Science * Home Economics * Music * Physical Education * Physics ... graduate degree in the content field and is a current California resident; * or hold a bachelor ...

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Earth Science Graduate information

See California salary details

$24.2K

$47.8K

$78K

How much do earth science graduate jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for earth science graduate in California is $47,757.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,000.00 and $51,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What can I do with a degree in Earth Science?

Earth Science graduates can pursue careers in environmental consulting, geology, resource exploration, hazard assessment, and research. They often work in fieldwork, data analysis, and use tools like GIS and remote sensing. Many roles require strong analytical skills and knowledge of natural systems.

What is the difference between Earth Science Graduate vs Geologist?

AspectEarth Science GraduateGeologist
Required CredentialsTypically a bachelor's degree in earth sciences or related fieldOften requires a bachelor's degree in geology or earth sciences; advanced roles may need a master's or PhD
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, field sites, educational settingsFieldwork, consulting firms, government agencies, mining companies
Industry UsageEntry-level, academic, or research rolesProfessional roles in exploration, environmental consulting, resource management

Earth Science Graduates often possess foundational knowledge suitable for entry-level positions or further specialization, while Geologists typically have more experience and credentials for professional fieldwork and consulting roles. Both roles are integral to understanding Earth's processes but differ in experience level and job responsibilities.

What Earth Science jobs pay the most?

Earth Science jobs that tend to pay the highest salaries include geophysicists, petroleum geologists, and environmental managers, often requiring advanced degrees and specialized skills. These roles typically involve working in the energy, oil and gas, or consulting industries and may require certifications or extensive field experience.

What are some common projects or tasks that Earth Science Graduates can expect to work on in their first professional roles?

As an Earth Science Graduate entering the workforce, you can expect to engage in tasks such as collecting and analyzing soil, water, or rock samples, assisting with field surveys, and contributing to environmental impact assessments. You may also support data entry, mapping, and report preparation while collaborating closely with more experienced geologists, environmental scientists, or engineers. These foundational responsibilities help you develop practical skills and form an understanding of industry-standard methodologies, setting the stage for future specialization and advancement.

What are the jobs for Earth Science?

Earth Science graduates can pursue careers such as geologist, environmental consultant, hydrologist, or geoscientist. These roles often involve fieldwork, data analysis, and the use of tools like GIS software, with some positions requiring relevant certifications or advanced degrees.

Is a geoscience degree worth it?

A geoscience degree can be valuable for Earth science graduates, as it provides foundational knowledge and skills for careers in environmental consulting, resource exploration, and research. Job prospects often depend on additional experience, certifications, and technical skills such as GIS or data analysis. The degree can lead to roles in fieldwork, laboratory work, and environmental assessment, with salary and job stability varying by industry and location.

What are Earth Science Graduates?

Earth Science Graduates are individuals who have completed a degree in earth sciences, a field that studies the physical constitution of the Earth and its atmosphere. Their education covers subjects like geology, meteorology, oceanography, and environmental science. These graduates often pursue careers in research, environmental consulting, government agencies, or education. They play an important role in understanding natural processes, managing natural resources, and addressing environmental challenges.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Earth Science Graduate, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Earth Science Graduate, you need a strong background in geology, environmental science, chemistry, and data analysis, usually supported by a relevant bachelor's or master's degree. Experience using GIS software, remote sensing tools, and laboratory instrumentation is highly valued in this field. Strong analytical thinking, teamwork, and effective communication skills help you interpret data and collaborate on research or fieldwork projects. These skills and qualifications are important for addressing complex environmental challenges and making informed scientific contributions.
What are popular job titles related to Earth Science Graduate jobs in California? For Earth Science Graduate jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Earth Science Graduate jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Earth Science Graduate jobs in California are:
Infographic showing various Earth Science Graduate job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $47,757 per year, or $23 per hour.
Geology (Earth Science) Adjunct Instructor Applicant Pool

Geology (Earth Science) Adjunct Instructor Applicant Pool

Canyons School District

On-site

$89.24/hr

Part-time

Posted yesterday


Canyons School District rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 22 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

311th of 577 rated elementary and secondary schools


Job description

Salary: $89.24 Hourly
Location : Santa Clarita, CA
Job Type: Part-Time Faculty
Job Number: 202300051
Division: Mathematics, Science & Engineering
Department: Geology
Opening Date: 10/03/2023
Description
We are now accepting applications for the Geology (Earth Science) Adjunct Instructor Applicant Pool. Adjunct pools are open on a fiscal year basis for continuous recruitment for department assignments. Please review application material requirements carefully to ensure successful submission. Your application will not be considered until all required documents are received.
The teaching assignment may be at the Valencia or Canyon Country campus, or other college teaching locations. Part-time faculty positions are as needed positions and do not accrue rights to tenure. Part-time faculty positions offer flexible hours and the opportunity to assist a diverse group of students in achieving their educational goals. We offer a wide range of opportunities in transfer, general education, vocational and occupational programs.
Example of Duties
College of the Canyons is seeking adjunct faculty members in Geology (Earth Sciences). Applications will be considered for immediate and future eligibility into the Geology (Earth Sciences) Applicant Pool.
We are accepting applications on an on-going basis for future consideration into the Applicant Pool. When no review date is listed for an Adjunct Instructor position, the position is open until filled. Your application will not be considered until all required documents have been received.
Service
  • Assume leadership roles both within the department and in the institution as a whole. Commitment to serving the needs of the student, department, college, and community. Collaboration across disciplines and utilization of student support resources. Participation in department, division, college committees, and participatory governance activities.
  • Participation in curriculum and program development.
  • Work collegially and collaboratively within the college community.
  • Participation in ongoing professional development.
Teaching
  • Ability to create a dynamic learning environment that values instructor/student interaction.
  • Ability to effectively engage with and facilitate authentic learning for students of diverse backgrounds, cultures, and experiences.
  • Ability to adapt teaching pedagogy to the knowledge of each individual and class. Ability to self-reflect and respond to an evidence-based assessment of student learning.
  • Demonstrated experience and commitment to integrating new technologies into the learning process, including but not limited to interactive technologies for on campus and on-line courses.
  • Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing.

Qualifications and Minimum Requirements
Possession of an unexpired California Community College Instructor Credential in Geology (Earth Science).
OR - Master's in geology, geophysics, earth sciences, meteorology, oceanography or paleontology
OR - Bachelor's in geology AND Master's in geography, physics, or geochemistry
OR - Equivalency: An official transcript documenting successful completion of any Master's degree from an accredited institution of higher education AND official transcripts documenting successful completion of 24 semester units in the discipline at the upper division and graduate level, a minimum of which must be 12 graduate level semester units. See Applying Through Equivalency for forms and information.
Please note:
  • Hiring committees review all complete, qualified application packets. Possession of the minimum qualifications does not guarantee an interview.
  • A teaching demonstration may be required at the interview stage.
  • From time to time the equivalencies accepted by departments change. If you are qualifying under an equivalency, please note that if hired you must qualify under the established minimum qualifications or department equivalency(ies) in place at the time of hire.

Further Details
Conditions of Employment
Assignments may include Monday through Friday (day and evening), as well as Saturday classes.
Adjunct Salary Rate: Starting at $89.24 per hour. (Link to Academic Adjunct Salary Schedule).
Offer and acceptance of employment is subject to verification of all information provided on the employment application, credential/transcripts, background fingerprint clearance, tuberculosis screening, proof of eligibility to work in the United States (College of the Canyons hires only individuals lawfully authorized to work in the United States) and Board of Trustees approval as required.
Application Instructions
All materials listed below are required to be considered for an interview. Applicants are encouraged to apply online by visiting our website at Jobs at COC. All application materials must be uploaded online or received by the Human Resources Department, located in the University Center, Suite 360. College of the Canyons, 26455 Rockwell Canyon Road, Santa Clarita, California 91355. If you require assistance, please contact the Human Resources Office at (661) 362-3427 or for hearing impaired TTY/TDD (661) 362-5178.
  • District ACADEMIC Application.
  • Current detailed resume summarizing education and experience.
  • Two (2) letters of professional reference. One formal, signed teaching evaluation may be substituted for one (1) letter of reference.
    • Each document must be dated within the last five years and have an original signature (fancy font type signatures are not acceptable).
  • Complete College transcripts verifying educational degree(s) and/or coursework required for the position. Unofficial or copies of transcripts may be submitted for application purposes (please include both the front and back of ALL transcript pages); however, official transcripts must be submitted at the time of hiring. Copies of college diplomas are not acceptable in lieu of transcripts.
    • Important note on minimum education requirements: Units and/or degree(s) earned must have been awarded by a college or university accredited by an agency recognized by the American Council on Post-Secondary Education. The candidate is responsible for providing equivalency evaluation recognized by the District for degrees and/or units earned outside the United States, degrees from a college or university not accredited by an agency recognized by the American Council on Post-Secondary Education, or if degree is not in the exact discipline required. For your convenience, we accept any company who is a current member of NACES.
It is the applicant's responsibility to ensure that the official application packet is fully and correctly completed. All materials submitted become the property of the District. Materials will not be returned, copied or considered for other openings. Complete applications will be kept on file for two (2) years from the date the application is initially received.
Selection and Applicant Pool Process
Positions are open until filled. The above position represents the anticipated need for the upcoming semester(s) or the applicant pool. The department may review materials at any time based on enrollment needs and the Human Resources Office will contact selected applicants for the interview process. Only completed application packets that meet the minimum qualifications or established equivalency will be considered.
Qualified applicants who successfully complete the selection and interview process will be placed in the applicant pool and may be eligible for adjunct employment with the District anytime within the next 36 months.
For the most current information, please visit the College of the Canyons benefits page at or call (661) 362-3127.
01
Please list your areas of expertise or specialty within the discipline of Geology (Earth Science).
02
Do you possess an unexpired California Community College Instructor Credential in Geology (Earth Science)? If yes, submit applicable credential (front/back).
  • Yes
  • No

03
Do you possess a Master's degree in geology, geophysics, earth sciences, meteorology, oceanography or paleontology? If yes, submit all applicable transcripts (front/back).
  • Yes
  • No

04
Do you possess a Bachelor's degree geology AND a Master's degree in geography, physics or geochemistry? If yes, submit all applicable transcripts (front/back).
  • Yes
  • No

05
If you answered "No" to previous questions, do you meet by Equivalency any Master's degree from an accredited institution of higher education AND successful completion of 24 semester units in the discipline at the upper division and graduate level, a minimum of which must be 12 graduate level semester units. Please see the "Applying Through Equivalency" link in the job announcement for forms and more information.
  • Yes
  • No

06
Teaching online courses with College of the Canyons requires a full online certification (36 hours or the equivalent). Please indicate your certification level for online instruction, as follows:
  • I am online certified through College of the Canyons or another institution (*Please include all relevant documents in your application materials.)
  • I am partially online certified through College of the Canyons or another institution (*Please include all relevant documents in your application materials.)
  • I am not online certified (*If you are hired by the District, you will need to obtain certification prior to being assigned online courses.)

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