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Earth Science Instructor Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

$89.24/hr

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.

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Earth Science Instructor information

See California salary details

$13.3K

$57.9K

$99.2K

How much do earth science instructor jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for earth science instructor in California is $57,946.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41,900.00 and $66,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Do Earth Science Instructor jobs pay well?

Earth Science Instructor jobs typically offer salaries that vary based on education, experience, and location, with many positions paying around the national average for science educators. Salaries can range from entry-level to experienced roles, and additional certifications or teaching in private institutions may influence pay. Overall, these jobs provide a stable income but are generally not among the highest-paying education roles.

Are earth science instructors in demand?

Earth science instructors are in steady demand, especially in high schools and colleges, as science education remains a priority. Employment opportunities depend on regional education budgets, certification requirements, and experience, with a growing need for qualified teachers to meet STEM education goals.

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

To thrive as an Earth Science Instructor, you need a strong background in geology, meteorology, or environmental science, typically backed by a relevant degree and teaching certification. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, scientific data analysis software, and digital classroom platforms is commonly required. Excellent communication, enthusiasm for teaching, and the ability to engage diverse learners are standout soft skills for this position. These skills ensure effective instruction, student engagement, and the successful delivery of complex scientific concepts.

What are some common challenges Earth Science Instructors face when engaging students with diverse backgrounds in the subject matter?

Earth Science Instructors often encounter the challenge of making complex geological, atmospheric, and environmental concepts accessible and engaging for students with varying levels of prior knowledge and interest. To address this, instructors frequently develop interactive lessons, utilize real-world examples, and incorporate hands-on laboratory activities to connect abstract theories to everyday experiences. Building an inclusive classroom environment where students feel comfortable asking questions and sharing perspectives is also key to fostering engagement and understanding.

What is the difference between Earth Science Instructor vs Science Teacher?

AspectEarth Science InstructorScience Teacher
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree in earth sciences or education, state certificationRequires a bachelor's degree in science or education, state certification
Work EnvironmentHigh schools, colleges, outdoor education programsElementary, middle, or high schools
Industry UsageSpecialized in earth sciences, environmental topicsBroader science subjects, including biology, chemistry, physics

Earth Science Instructors focus specifically on earth sciences and environmental topics, often working in specialized settings. Science Teachers cover a wider range of science subjects across different education levels. Both roles require similar credentials but differ in scope and work environment.

How to become an earth science instructor?

To become an earth science instructor, you typically need a bachelor's degree in earth science, geology, or a related field, along with teaching certification or licensure if teaching in K-12 schools. Relevant experience, strong communication skills, and knowledge of laboratory and fieldwork techniques are also important. Advanced degrees or specialized certifications can enhance job prospects and teaching opportunities.

What does an Earth Science Instructor do?

An Earth Science Instructor teaches students about the Earth's structure, processes, and history, including subjects like geology, meteorology, oceanography, and environmental science. They develop lesson plans, deliver lectures, conduct laboratory and field activities, and assess student understanding. Earth Science Instructors may teach at the middle school, high school, or college level, adapting their curriculum to fit educational standards and student needs. They also stay updated on scientific developments and may participate in research or professional development.
What are popular job titles related to Earth Science Instructor jobs in California? For Earth Science Instructor jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Earth Science Instructor jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Earth Science Instructor jobs in California are:
Infographic showing various Earth Science Instructor job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 23% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 76% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 21% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,946 per year, or $27.9 per hour.

Earth Science Instructor (Continuous Adjunct Pool)

Citrus College

Glendora, CA โ€ข On-site

Full-time, Part-time

Re-posted 16 hours ago


Job description

Position Details
Position Information
Position Title
Earth Science Instructor (Continuous Adjunct Pool)
Position Description
POSITION SUMMARY:
This is a POOL position. Application materials for this part-time position are accepted on an on-going basis. As openings for temporary, part-time earth science instructors become available, candidates may be selected from this pool of applicants.
Required Qualifications
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
Demonstrated understanding of, sensitivity to, and respect for the diverse academic, socioeconomic, ethnic, religious, cultural background, disability, and sexual orientation of community college students, faculty, and staff
AND
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 the equivalent.
Preferred Qualifications
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
Experience in GIS (Geographic Information Systems).
Licenses and Certificates
LICENSES AND CERTIFICATES:
NA
Recruitment Start Date
12/13/2022
Recruitment End Date
Open Until Filled
Yes
First Consideration Date
Salary Range
Salary to be determined by the candidate's proper placement on the current Adjunct Faculty Salary Schedule, which is based on education and experience, and can be found at the Citrus College website.
Pay Rate
TBD
Benefits
BENEFITS:Paid holidays, health benefits, and vacation are not offered for this part-time faculty position.
FLSA
Exempt
Department
Natural and Physical Sciences Department Administration
If "Other" please specify
Job Category
Assignment
Percentage of Time
NA
Months per Year
NA
Work Days per Week
To be determined by the District
Work Schedule per Day
To be determined by the District
Work Shift
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
NA
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
KNOWLEGDE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:
NA
Citrus College Diversity Statement
CITRUS COLLEGE IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
It is the policy of Citrus College to not discriminate against and to encourage a diversity of applicants based on national origin, religion, age, sex or gender, race, color, medical condition, ancestry, sexual orientation, marital status, physical or mental disability, use of family and medical care leave, genetic information, military or veteran status, gender identity, gender expression, or because they are perceived to have one or more of the preceding characteristics, or based on association with a person or group with one or more of these actual or perceived characteristics.
About Transcripts
ABOUT TRANSCRIPTS:
-Candidates must upload copies of all transcripts (need not be official at the time of application) which prove sufficient for verifying minimum qualifications for this position.
-Official transcripts will be required at the time of the job offer.
-Transcripts must be from the awarding institution, and must show that the degree has been awarded (or conferred) and the year.
-Degree(s) must be earned (or conferred) from accredited institution(s) or an equivalent foreign institution by the first consideration date for this position.
-All degrees must be verifiable on a legible transcript by the indicated first consideration date for this position.
-Foreign transcripts must be transcribed in English AND evaluated for U.S. equivalency by a bona fide U.S. evaluation service.
Selection Process
Quick Link
https://employment.citruscollege.edu/postings/528