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Entry Level Environmental Monitoring Jobs in California

Environmental Scientist

Long Beach, CA ยท On-site

$78K - $103K/yr

AECOM is seeking an entry-level Environmental Scientist to join our Environmental Team in Long Beach, California . The successful candidate will support environmental investigation, monitoring, and ...

Environmental Scientist

Long Beach, CA

$78K - $103K/yr

AECOM is seeking an entry-level Environmental Scientist to join our Environmental Team in Long Beach, California . The successful candidate will support environmental investigation, monitoring, and ...

Environmental Scientist

Long Beach, CA ยท On-site

$78K - $103K/yr

AECOM is seeking an entry-level Environmental Scientist to join our Environmental Team in Long Beach, California . The successful candidate will support environmental investigation, monitoring, and ...

Sanitation Associate I

Vernon, CA ยท On-site

$15.25 - $18.25/hr

Facilities And Sanitation Worker (Entry-Level) Location: Vernon, CA (5925 S Alcoa Ave, Vernon, CA ... Support environmental monitoring initiatives * Manage waste collection and disposal procedures

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Entry Level Environmental Monitoring information

See California salary details

$12

$21

$34

How much do entry level environmental monitoring jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level environmental monitoring in California is $21.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $24.90 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level environmental monitoring job?

Entry level environmental monitoring jobs involve collecting and analyzing samples of air, water, soil, or other environmental components to assess pollution levels and ensure compliance with regulations. People in these roles often conduct fieldwork, operate monitoring equipment, and record environmental data under the supervision of more experienced staff. These positions are typically found in government agencies, environmental consulting firms, or laboratories, and they provide foundational experience for a career in environmental science or management.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed for entry level environmental monitoring?

To thrive in Entry Level Environmental Monitoring, you typically need a background in environmental science or a related field, with knowledge of sampling techniques and data collection. Familiarity with field instruments such as air and water quality meters, GPS devices, and relevant data management software is important. Strong attention to detail, effective communication, and the ability to work both independently and as part of a team are valuable soft skills. These competencies ensure accurate data gathering and reporting, supporting regulatory compliance and environmental protection initiatives.

What are common challenges faced by entry level environmental monitoring professionals, and how can they be addressed?

Entry level environmental monitoring professionals often encounter challenges such as adapting to fieldwork in varying weather conditions, managing precise data collection, and learning to use specialized monitoring equipment. Team collaboration and clear communication are essential, particularly when reporting findings or sharing data with senior scientists and regulatory agencies. Building familiarity with standard operating procedures and safety guidelines helps ensure accurate results and personal safety. Proactively seeking mentorship and participating in ongoing training can also help overcome the initial learning curve.

What is the difference between Entry Level Environmental Monitoring vs Entry Level Environmental Technician?

AspectEntry Level Environmental MonitoringEntry Level Environmental Technician
Required CertificationsNone or basic certifications (e.g., OSHA, EPA) often preferredOften requires environmental or safety certifications
Work EnvironmentFieldwork, sampling, data collection in outdoor or industrial sitesFieldwork and laboratory tasks, site inspections
Employer & Industry UsageEnvironmental consulting firms, government agencies, industrial companiesEnvironmental consulting, government agencies, manufacturing plants

Both roles involve environmental data collection and site assessments, but Environmental Monitoring focuses more on ongoing environmental data analysis, while Environmental Technicians often perform broader sampling and lab work. They share similar certifications and work environments, making them closely related entry-level positions in the environmental industry.

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

The most popular types of Environmental Monitoring jobs in California are:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Environmental Monitoring job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,160 per year, or $21.7 per hour.

Entry Level Environmental Field Technician

San Francisco, CA โ€ข On-site

$25 - $30/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 28 days ago


Job description

Entry Level Environmental Field Technician

Full Time

San Francisco, CA, US

Salary Range:$25.00 To $27.00 Hourly

North Tower Environmental, Inc. (NTE), has an opportunity for an entry-level technician. The position is available for recent college grads as well as motivated, self-starters ready to build experience in the environmental field. In this position, the successful candidate will be a key part of the industrial hygiene team by assisting in a variety of environmental and industrial hygiene field activities, which may include asbestos, lead based paint, construction air monitoring and inspections. conduct building related environmental assessments, assist with project design and monitor contractors during remediation activities. Regulatory required training and State of California certifications will be provided as skills and interests are developed.

Candidates should be energetic, interested in building systems, health & safety concerns. Familiarity with computer operations (Windows and Mac), Microsoft Office and basic drafting programs is required. Technicians will also prepare reports and other project documents related to field operations; assist with equipment maintenance & calibration and general office support.

Minimum Requirements:

  1. Competent written and verbal communication skills
  2. Strong organizational abilities and strict attention to detail
  3. Computer literate
  4. Willing to travel, work evenings and weekends as projects require
  5. Be in good physical health and able to wear respiratory and other personal protective equipment
  6. Ability to climb ladders, navigate crawl spaces, lift/carry equipment (generally up to 50 lbs), stand for long periods of time.
  7. Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation

Desirable Qualifications:

  1. Recent Graduate with BA/BS in environmental sciences, health & safety, industrial hygiene or building related fields
  2. Basic drafting skills
  3. Knowledge of building systems & construction techniques
  4. Ability to read & understand construction drawings
  5. 40-hour HAZWOP certification, AHERA Building Inspector and Contractor/Supervisor certifications

Benefits:

NTE provides a comprehensive benefits package to regular full-time and qualifying part-time employees that includes:

  • Eligibility to participate in the company Employee Profit Sharing Program for qualifying individuals.
  • Group Medical Insurance
  • 401(k) Retirement Savings Program
  • Paid Time Off
  • Discretionary Bonus Program
  • Professional development funds for professional license fees, memberships, training and seminars

Company Description

North Tower Environmental, Inc. is an Environmental and Industrial Hygiene Consulting Firm that offers environmental services for both private and public sector clients at sites located throughout California. North Tower Environmental is seeking an entry level site surveillance / industrial hygiene technician for a full-time position.