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Environmental Technician Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Environmental Scientist

Irvine, CA · On-site

$35 - $38.46/hr

Job Overview: APTIM Environmental & Infrastructure, LLC is seeking a junior-level Environmental Scientist on a full-time basis out of our Irvine, CA office to participate in a variety of ...

Environmental Scientist

Irvine, CA · On-site

$60 - $80/hr

APTIM is seeking an entry Environmental Scientist on a full-time basis in the Irvine, CA area in primary support of our solid waste composition assessments of client waste containers ranging in size ...

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Environmental Technician information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$13

$22

$36

How much do environmental technician jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for environmental technician in Riverside, CA is $22.95, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.08 and $26.35 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an environmental technician?

Environmental Technicians are professionals who monitor the environment and investigate sources of pollution by collecting samples of air, water, soil, and other materials for laboratory analysis. They work to ensure compliance with environmental regulations and help identify ways to minimize environmental impact. Their duties may include operating field equipment, recording data, and supporting environmental scientists or engineers in their research and remediation efforts. Environmental Technicians often work for government agencies, consulting firms, or private companies involved in environmental protection.

How to become an environmental technician?

You need a bachelor's degree in a science-related field to become an environmental technician. Your responsibilities in this career require extensive knowledge of chemistry, biology, and water ecosystems. Anthropology, archaeology, and paleontology are also areas that prepare you for collecting samples, running tests, and reviewing the results. Your duties require you to do fieldwork and conduct laboratory testing, so you must be familiar with the equipment and have an understanding of the effects of waste on the health of the environment. Other qualifications include completed OSHA training, analytical skills, and certifications relevant to your area of study.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an environmental technician, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Environmental Technician, you need a background in environmental science or a related field, along with knowledge of sampling techniques, data collection, and regulatory compliance. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, field sampling instruments, GIS software, and relevant certifications such as HAZWOPER is often required. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective communication are vital soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure accurate environmental monitoring, regulatory adherence, and successful collaboration with teams and stakeholders.

What types of fieldwork and laboratory tasks can I expect as an environmental technician?

As an Environmental Technician, you'll often split your time between conducting fieldwork—such as collecting soil, air, and water samples—and performing laboratory analyses on those samples. Fieldwork can involve operating specialized equipment, adhering to safety protocols, and sometimes working in challenging weather or terrain. In the lab, you'll follow standard procedures to test for contaminants and document results accurately. Collaboration with scientists, engineers, and regulatory agencies is common, and you'll regularly contribute data that informs environmental assessments and remediation projects.

What is the difference between Environmental Technician vs Environmental Specialist?

AspectEnvironmental TechnicianEnvironmental Specialist
CertificationsOften requires OSHA HAZWOPER, EPA certificationsMay require additional certifications like Certified Environmental Professional (CEP)
Work EnvironmentFieldwork, sampling, site assessmentsFieldwork and analysis, report writing, regulatory compliance
Employer & Industry UsageEnvironmental consulting firms, government agencies, industrial companiesEnvironmental consulting, government agencies, corporate sustainability teams

Environmental Technicians primarily focus on field sampling and data collection, while Environmental Specialists often handle analysis, reporting, and regulatory compliance. Both roles are essential in environmental projects, but Technicians typically perform more hands-on sampling, whereas Specialists interpret data and develop strategies.

How much do environmental technicians make?

Environmental technicians in Texas typically earn an average annual salary of around $40,000 to $50,000, depending on experience, certifications, and the specific industry. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced technicians with specialized skills can earn higher wages. Salaries can also vary based on the complexity of environmental assessments and regulatory requirements.

Is an environmental technician a hard job?

Environmental technicians often perform physically demanding tasks such as collecting samples, operating testing equipment, and working outdoors in various weather conditions. The job requires attention to detail, adherence to safety protocols, and sometimes certifications, but whether it is hard depends on individual skills and the specific work environment.

What are the most commonly searched types of Environmental Technician jobs in Riverside, CA?

The most popular types of Environmental Technician jobs in Riverside, CA are:

What are popular job titles related to Environmental Technician jobs in Riverside, CA?

For Environmental Technician jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Environmental Technician jobs?

Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Environmental Technician job openings:

Infographic showing various Environmental Technician job openings in Riverside, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $47,740 per year, or $23 per hour.

Sample Control Technician II / Courier - Environmental Laboratories

Montrose Environmental Group, Inc.

Anaheim, CA • On-site

$21 - $25/hr

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago


Montrose Environmental Group rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 12 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

308th of 500 rated business services


Job description

About Us
At Onterris, we build careers grounded in purpose, responsibility and real-world impact.
"For Planet and Progress" is our north star that guides everything we do. We believe environmental responsibility and human progress are interconnected, interwoven and international. Our scientists, engineers, field teams, consultants and professionals collaborate across disciplines and geographies, guiding industries and governments, ensuring that communities and environments thrive.
When you join us, you're not just forging a career, you're joining a movement. A movement for better thinking, smarter solutions and lasting impact.
Together, we will advance our way of life and protect the integrity of our environment every step of the way.
A Day in the Life
As a Full-Time Sample Control Technician II / Courier based in our Anaheim, CA Laboratory, you'll step into the lab where every detail matters. You'll play a key role in handling samples, keeping records accurate, and maintaining a clean laboratory to support on-time results everyday. This position will also include providing courier services to support our Anaheim location. You'll collaborate with a strong team of committed professionals, contribute to meaningful scientific work, and grow your expertise in a dynamic, quality-driven environment. The ideal candidate will have experience in working under possibly hazardous conditions (e.g. pathogens or chemicals). They will be well-trained to maintain safety conditions and will be passionate for doing work that makes things move forward.
The position title and compensation range for this role is, commensurate with experience, skills, and geographic location. Sample Control Technician II $21.00 - $25.00 / hr, DOE.
Work Location: Anaheim, CA (primary); may support in Orange, CA as needed
Department: Sample Receiving/Sample Control
Schedule: 1st Shift (10am - 6:30 pm); Monday - Friday
The Laboratory Technician II, Sample Control serves as a key resource supporting sample receiving, sample control, and logistics activities between the Orange and Anaheim laboratories. This position requires a proactive and highly organized individual who can independently assess workload, identify potential issues, coordinate sample movement, and ensure samples are routed efficiently to support laboratory operations, turnaround times, and client commitments.
To thrive in this role, you'll be comfortable taking ownership of the following responsibilities:
  • Transport samples, supplies, and laboratory materials between the Orange and Anaheim laboratories using company vehicles while maintaining chain of custody, sample integrity, and required documentation

  • Receive environmental samples into the laboratory according to SOPs

  • Perform data entry and login of sample and test information into the Laboratory Information System (LIMS)

  • Review incoming samples and chain of custody documentation for completeness, holding times, preservation requirements, and potential discrepancies, escalating concerns as needed

  • Label sample containers and equipment, store materials in designated locations, and promptly notify the appropriate department of short-hold and rush samples

  • Prioritize, route, and track routine, rush, short-hold, and other high-priority samples to ensure timely processing and adherence to required turnaround times

  • Performs sample bottle preparation, sample archiving and disposal, and daily inter-laboratory transfers to maintain efficient and compliant sample flow

  • Identify potential sample handling, documentation, scheduling, and logistical issues; assess their impact and promptly escalate concerns to prevent delays or compliance risks

  • Serve as a primary Sample Control contact for Anaheim laboratory operations, coordinating sample flow and transfers, maintaining organized inventory, and communicating sample-related issues to appropriate personnel

  • Maintain the company vehicle in optimal condition

  • Operate forklifts and other material-handling equipment, as needed, to safely move samples, supplies, and laboratory materials throughout laboratory and warehouse areas

  • Identify opportunities to improve sample handling, logistics, and workflow efficiency and recommend improvements that enhance operational effectiveness

  • Participate in focus teams and continuous-improvement initiatives to enhance operational efficiency

  • Comply with the Company's Quality Assurance Program

  • Comply with the Company's Health and Safety Plan

  • Perform all other duties as assigned

Your Expertise and Skills
These requirements reflect the knowledge, skills and abilities that help you do your best work here.
  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Minimum of 2 years of experience in laboratory operations, sample receiving, logistics, warehouse operations, or a related operational environment
  • Must have a valid driver's license
  • Must be able to move and carry up to 50 lbs
  • Must be able to remain in a stationary position for the duration of shift while performing frequent routine tasks
  • Must have a driving record that meets the company's requirements for operating company vehicles.
  • Forklift experience preferred, or willingness to learn and successfully complete company-provided forklift training and certification within the first 30 days of employment.

Preferred Skills
  • Prior experience in laboratory operations, sample receiving, or environmental laboratory operations

  • Experience with chain of custody review and Laboratory Information Systems (LIMS)

  • Knowledge of general laboratory practices and laboratory safety

  • Ability to manage multiple priorities and communicate effectively, both orally and in writing

  • Ability to work independently and make sound decisions

  • Strong organizational skills and attention to detail

  • Ability to prioritize and route multiple incoming samples while balancing competing deadlines and turnaround requirements

  • Demonstrated initiative and proactive problem-solving skills

  • Ability to recognize issues, evaluate impacts, and escalate concerns appropriately

  • Strong communication skills and confidence interacting with laboratory staff, couriers, project managers, and operations personnel

  • General understanding of environmental laboratory analyses, sample preservation requirements, and holding times

Work Environment and Physical Requirements
The physical and environmental requirements below reflect what's typically needed to perform the essential functions of this role safely and effectively. We may provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities, consistent with applicable law, to support performance of the essential functions.
  • Sitting, standing, and walking
  • Must be able to work in a stationary position for entire shift duration
  • Lifting, moving, and carrying up to 50 lbs
  • Works in an office, laboratory and/or warehouse environment
  • Ability to safely operate a forklift (certification required)
  • Ability to climb on and off forklift

#LI-SG1
#INDONT
Onterris is a leading global environmental solutions company partnering with organizations to solve complex challenges where environmental pressures, regulatory expectations and operational risks intersect. Guided by our mission to advance the way of life without compromising the integrity of our environment, we believe environmental responsibility and human progress are fundamentally connected. Our scientists, engineers, field teams and consultants apply systems thinking that unites science, data and practical expertise to deliver solutions that strengthen our clients' resilience, mitigate risk and protect the air, water and soil that sustain communities, while uncovering responsible paths forward for planet and progress. For more information, visit www.onterris.com.
We are an equal opportunity employer and encourage applications from people of all backgrounds. We acknowledge that these experiences and perspectives help to enrich our teams and contribute to our ongoing success. We are committed to providing access and reasonable accommodation in our employment for all applicants. For US residents, click here to learn more.

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