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Entry Level Environmental Science Jobs in California

Verdantas

Staff Scientist I

Fresno, CA · Hybrid

$50K - $60K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

This is an entry-level stormwater professional role and is a great fit for someone who is eager to ... Bachelor's degree in environmental science, engineering, or related field * 0-2 years of experience ...

Verdantas

Staff Scientist I

San Ramon, CA · Hybrid

$50K - $60K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

This is an entry-level stormwater professional role and is a great fit for someone who is eager to ... Bachelor's degree in environmental science, engineering, or related field * 0-2 years of experience ...

J.S. Held LLC

EH&S - Entry-Level Field Technician

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$20.25 - $27/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Held is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Environmental Scientist to join our Industrial Hygiene & Built Environment practice in Los Angeles. This role involves performing field-based ...

J.S. Held LLC

EH&S - Entry-Level Field Technician

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$20.25 - $27/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Held is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Environmental Scientist to join our Industrial Hygiene & Built Environment practice in Los Angeles. This role involves performing field-based ...

Bartlett Tree Experts

Arborist Ground Person

Santa Barbara, CA · On-site

$22 - $26/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

This is a unique entry-level opportunity to develop your career in arboriculture through hands-on ... Degree in Arboriculture, Forestry, Horticulture, Plant Science, Landscape Management, Environmental ...

Bartlett Tree Experts

Arborist Ground Person

San Gabriel, CA · On-site

$22 - $26/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

This is a unique entry-level opportunity to develop your career in arboriculture through hands-on ... Degree in Arboriculture, Forestry, Horticulture, Plant Science, Landscape Management, Environmental ...

Bartlett Tree Experts

Arborist Ground Person

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$22 - $26/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

This is a unique entry-level opportunity to develop your career in arboriculture through hands-on ... Degree in Arboriculture, Forestry, Horticulture, Plant Science, Landscape Management, Environmental ...

Bartlett Tree Experts

Arborist Ground Person

San Gabriel, CA · On-site

$22 - $26/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

This is a unique entry-level opportunity to develop your career in arboriculture through hands-on ... Degree in Arboriculture, Forestry, Horticulture, Plant Science, Landscape Management, Environmental ...

Bartlett Tree Experts

Arborist Ground Person

Concord, CA · On-site

$22 - $28/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

This is a unique entry-level opportunity to develop your career in arboriculture through hands-on ... Degree in Arboriculture, Forestry, Horticulture, Plant Science, Landscape Management, Environmental ...

Bartlett Tree Experts

Arborist Ground Person

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$22 - $26/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

This is a unique entry-level opportunity to develop your career in arboriculture through hands-on ... Degree in Arboriculture, Forestry, Horticulture, Plant Science, Landscape Management, Environmental ...

Bartlett Tree Experts

Arborist Ground Person

Concord, CA

$22 - $28/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

This is a unique entry-level opportunity to develop your career in arboriculture through hands-on ... Degree in Arboriculture, Forestry, Horticulture, Plant Science, Landscape Management, Environmental ...

Bartlett Tree Experts

Arborist Ground Person

Santa Barbara, CA · On-site

$22 - $26/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

This is a unique entry-level opportunity to develop your career in arboriculture through hands-on ... Degree in Arboriculture, Forestry, Horticulture, Plant Science, Landscape Management, Environmental ...

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Showing results 41-60

All JobsEnvironmental Science JobsEntry Level Environmental Science JobsEntry Level Environmental Science Jobs in California

Entry Level Environmental Science information

See California salary details

$12

$21

$34

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

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level environmental science 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.

How to start a career in entry level environmental science?

To start a career in entry level environmental science, obtain a relevant bachelor's degree such as environmental science, biology, or chemistry. Gaining practical experience through internships, volunteering, or research projects and developing skills in data analysis, GIS, and environmental monitoring can improve job prospects. Certifications like OSHA safety training or specialized environmental credentials can also be beneficial.

What types of jobs can you get with an entry level environmental science degree?

Entry level environmental science graduates can pursue roles such as environmental technician, field analyst, conservation assistant, or sustainability coordinator. These positions often involve data collection, environmental monitoring, and supporting environmental policies, requiring skills in data analysis, report writing, and familiarity with tools like GIS and sampling equipment.

Is it hard to get a job in entry level environmental science right now?

Entry level environmental science jobs are competitive but accessible for recent graduates with relevant skills such as data analysis, fieldwork, and knowledge of environmental regulations. Job availability depends on regional demand, industry growth, and the candidate's qualifications, including certifications like GIS or environmental monitoring experience.

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

AspectEntry Level Environmental ScienceEnvironmental Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in environmental science or related fieldAssociate's degree or relevant certification, some roles may require a bachelor's
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, field sites, government agencies, consulting firmsFieldwork, sampling, data collection, laboratory analysis
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, government agencies, environmental consulting firmsEnvironmental consulting, government agencies, industrial sites
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Entry Level Environmental Science roles typically require a bachelor's degree and involve research, analysis, and project planning in various environmental settings. Environmental Technicians often focus on field sampling and data collection, sometimes with an associate's degree or certification. Both roles are essential in environmental work, but they differ mainly in educational requirements and daily tasks.

What are entry level environmental science jobs?

Entry level environmental science jobs are positions designed for individuals who are new to the environmental science field, typically recent graduates with a bachelor's degree in environmental science or a related discipline. These roles may include titles such as environmental technician, field assistant, laboratory analyst, or environmental consultant. Responsibilities often involve collecting and analyzing environmental data, assisting with fieldwork, preparing reports, and supporting environmental monitoring or remediation projects. These positions provide valuable hands-on experience and are a stepping stone to more advanced roles in environmental science.

What types of projects do entry-level environmental scientists typically work on, and how much fieldwork is involved?

Entry-level environmental scientists often assist with site assessments, environmental monitoring, data collection, and report preparation for projects such as pollution investigations, habitat restoration, or regulatory compliance. The amount of fieldwork varies by employer and project, but you can expect a mix of office-based analysis and on-site sampling or observation, sometimes requiring travel or outdoor work in various weather conditions. These projects offer valuable hands-on experience and opportunities to collaborate with engineers, senior scientists, and regulatory agencies, helping you build both technical and teamwork skills early in your career.
More about Entry Level Environmental Science jobs

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

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

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Environmental Science jobs in California?

For Entry Level Environmental Science jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Environmental Science jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Environmental Science jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Entry Level Environmental Science jobs?

Cities in California with the most Entry Level Environmental Science job openings:

Entry Level Environmental Science jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Environmental Science job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, and 14% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $45,160 per year, or $21.7 per hour.

Staff Scientist I

Verdantas

Fresno, CA • Hybrid

$50K - $60K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 26 days ago

Verdantas rating

9.4

Company rating: 9.4 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

15th of 447 rated engineering

Job description

Welcome to Verdantas, where innovation meets sustainability, and your career finds purpose!

At Verdantas, we're redefining environmental consulting and sustainable engineering through our use of cutting-edge modeling and digital technology and our genuine commitment to people. Our work spans high-growth sectors like water resources, resilient land use, energy transformation, and civil infrastructure.

Our commitment to excellence, across more than 90 offices, is championed by a team of over 2,000 experts, scientists, engineers, geologists, and technical specialists, embedded in a people-focused culture, prioritizing the well-being of our employees, clients, and the communities we serve. We partner with clients to deliver smart, data-driven solutions to complex environmental and infrastructure challenges. We don't just solve problems; we help shape a more sustainable future.

Join a people-first culture that values your well-being, empowers your growth, and amplifies your impact. At Verdantas, your career goes beyond the expected, and your work helps build a better world.

Ready to shape the future of resilient communities?

Verdantas is seeking a Scientist I to support our Environmental and Stormwater team across the Bay Area. This position is local to project sites and offers a hybrid work environment, combining field-based work with remote flexibility.

This is an entry-level stormwater professional role and is a great fit for someone who is eager to learn, grow, and contribute within a collaborative environment while making a positive impact on the environment.
What You'll Do
  • Support environmental and stormwater compliance projects
  • Conduct stormwater inspections and field evaluations
  • Develop and implement Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plans (SWPPPs)
  • Perform stormwater sampling and site monitoring activities
  • Complete desktop evaluations and site assessments
  • Provide on-site training and guidance to construction crews
  • Prepare documentation, reporting, and compliance records
  • Assist clients with regulatory compliance and pollution prevention efforts
  • Collaborate with internal teams on routine and complex projects
  • Support additional initiatives and special projects as assigned
  • Travel to project sites, including occasional overnight travel and extended hours as needed
What You'll Bring
  • Bachelor's degree in environmental science, engineering, or related field
  • 0-2 years of experience in stormwater compliance or SWPPP-related work
  • Knowledge of stormwater regulations, water quality practices, and environmental compliance
  • Experience with inspection, sampling, and reporting processes
  • Familiarity with erosion control, site stabilization, and restoration practices
  • Understanding of California stormwater regulations and permitting (preferred)
  • Strong communication skills and ability to train field teams
  • Proficiency in documentation and compliance tracking systems
  • Valid driver's license and ability to travel to project sites
Nice to Have
  • QSP/QSD certification (or ability to obtain within 6 months)
  • Additional certifications (CESSWI, CPESC, CPSWQ, QISP, PE, PG)
  • Experience with SMARTS and California Construction General Permit
  • Exposure to environmental permitting or natural resources work
  • Familiarity with industry tools such as ArcGIS

Salary Range:

$50,000.00 - $60,000.00

Benefits:

  • Flexible Work Environment
  • Paid Parental Leave
  • Medical
  • Dental
  • Vision
  • Life and AD&D Insurance
  • Short-Term and Long-Term Disability
  • 401(k) with Company Match
  • Paid Time Off + Holidays

Verdantas strives to develop new ways to increase diversity awareness within our organization. We recruit and reward our employees based on capability and performance - regardless of race, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, lifestyle, age, educational background, national origin, religion, or physical ability. For us, it is imperative to build balanced teams from all walks of life and we believe that a diverse workforce is a stronger workforce.

Verdantas is an EOE race/color/religion/sex/sexual orientation/gender identity/national origin/disability/vet

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