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Entry Level Natural Resource Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Staff Scientist I

San Ramon, CA · On-site

$50K - $60K/yr

This is an entry-level stormwater professional role and is a great fit for someone who is eager to ... Exposure to environmental permitting or natural resources work * Familiarity with industry tools ...

Staff Scientist I

West Sacramento, CA · Hybrid

$50K - $60K/yr

This is an entry-level stormwater professional role and is a great fit for someone who is eager to ... Exposure to environmental permitting or natural resources work * Familiarity with industry tools ...

Staff Scientist I

Marysville, CA · Hybrid

$50K - $60K/yr

This is an entry-level stormwater professional role and is a great fit for someone who is eager to ... Exposure to environmental permitting or natural resources work * Familiarity with industry tools ...

Staff Scientist I

Fresno, CA · Hybrid

$50K - $60K/yr

This is an entry-level stormwater professional role and is a great fit for someone who is eager to ... Exposure to environmental permitting or natural resources work * Familiarity with industry tools ...

This is an entry-level, hands-on role ideal for someone eager to build a career in field research ... fewer natural resources, increasing the yield, resiliency, and genetic diversity of crops to ...

This is an entry-level, hands-on role ideal for someone eager to build a career in field research ... fewer natural resources, increasing the yield, resiliency, and genetic diversity of crops to ...

This is an entry-level, hands-on role ideal for someone eager to build a career in field research ... fewer natural resources, increasing the yield, resiliency, and genetic diversity of crops to ...

This is an entry-level, hands-on role ideal for someone eager to build a career in field research ... fewer natural resources, increasing the yield, resiliency, and genetic diversity of crops to ...

SEASONAL LAB TECHNICIAN

Livermore, CA · On-site

$15.50 - $22.97/hr

Position Summary As an entry-level lab position, excellent training will be provided. The Seasonal ... Supports environmentally sustainability by conserving natural resources as well as limiting the use ...

Position Summary As an entry-level lab position, excellent training will be provided. The Seasonal ... Supports environmentally sustainability by conserving natural resources as well as limiting the use ...

Civil Engineer I (Entry-Level) Our client is seeking an entry-level Civil Engineer to perform basic ... Our Services W3Global understands the natural ups and downs of an organization's staffing needs. We ...

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Showing results 21-40

Entry Level Natural Resource information

See California salary details

$14.2K

$49.9K

$95K

How much do entry level natural resource jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level natural resource in California is $49,933.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,679.00 and $56,305.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What types of fieldwork and projects can I expect as an entry level natural resource professional?

As an entry-level natural resource professional, you can expect to participate in a variety of hands-on fieldwork such as collecting soil, water, and vegetation samples, monitoring wildlife, and assisting with habitat restoration projects. You'll often work as part of a team with scientists, technicians, and land managers, gaining exposure to data collection, mapping, and report preparation. These experiences provide valuable foundational skills and may involve working outdoors in varying weather conditions. Over time, you'll have opportunities to take on more responsibility and contribute to larger conservation or resource management initiatives.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level natural resource specialist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Natural Resource Specialist, you need a background in environmental science, biology, or a related field, along with strong research and analytical skills. Familiarity with GIS software, data collection tools, and environmental regulations is typically required. Attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for collaborating with colleagues and stakeholders. These skills are essential for accurately assessing natural resources, ensuring compliance, and supporting sustainable management practices.

What is the difference between Entry Level Natural Resource vs Entry Level Environmental Technician?

AspectEntry Level Natural ResourceEntry Level Environmental Technician
Required CredentialsAssociate's degree or related certificationAssociate's degree or environmental science background
Work EnvironmentFieldwork, outdoor settings, conservation sitesField and lab work, environmental monitoring
Employer & Industry UsageGovernment agencies, conservation organizationsEnvironmental consulting firms, government agencies

Both roles often require similar educational backgrounds and involve outdoor work, but Natural Resource positions focus more on conservation and land management, while Environmental Technicians typically handle environmental testing and monitoring tasks.

What is an entry level natural resource?

Entry level natural resource jobs are positions designed for individuals who are new to the field of natural resources, often requiring little to no prior professional experience. These roles may include tasks such as collecting environmental data, assisting with field surveys, supporting conservation projects, and monitoring wildlife or plant populations. Common employers include government agencies, non-profit organizations, and private environmental consulting firms. These jobs typically require at least a high school diploma or a bachelor’s degree in a related field such as environmental science, forestry, biology, or geography. They offer valuable hands-on experience and serve as a stepping stone to more advanced roles in natural resource management and conservation.
What are the most commonly searched types of Natural Resource jobs in California? The most popular types of Natural Resource jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Entry Level Natural Resource jobs? Cities in California with the most Entry Level Natural Resource job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Natural Resource job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $49,933 per year, or $24 per hour.

Staff Scientist I

Verdantas

San Ramon, CA • On-site

$50K - $60K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 19 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 441 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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