1

Field Sampling Technician Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Serve as Asbestos Field Sampling Technician on assigned site investigation, remediation, and decommissioning/decontamination/demolition environmental construction projects and implement site-specific ...

Serve as Asbestos Field Sampling Technician on assigned site investigation, remediation, and decommissioning/decontamination/demolition environmental construction projects and implement site-specific ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Field Sampling Technician information

See California salary details

$11

$22

$33

How much do field sampling technician jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for field sampling technician in California is $22.22, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.59 and $26.11 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a field sampling technician?

Field sampling technicians are professionals who collect environmental samples such as soil, water, air, or biological materials from various locations for scientific analysis. They follow strict protocols to ensure samples are uncontaminated and accurately represent the site conditions. Their work is critical in environmental monitoring, research, and regulatory compliance. Field sampling technicians often work outdoors and may travel to different sites depending on the project requirements.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a field sampling technician?

To thrive as a Field Sampling Technician, you need a solid background in environmental science or a related field, with skills in sample collection, data recording, and adherence to safety protocols. Familiarity with GPS devices, field sampling equipment, and laboratory information management systems (LIMS) is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and strong communication skills help technicians adapt to diverse field conditions and collaborate effectively with team members. These competencies ensure accurate data collection, regulatory compliance, and the reliability of environmental monitoring projects.

What are some common challenges field sampling technicians face while collecting environmental samples in the field?

Field Sampling Technicians often encounter challenges such as unpredictable weather conditions, difficult terrain, and the need to adhere strictly to sampling protocols to ensure data integrity. Navigating remote or hazardous locations while carrying specialized equipment can require strong problem-solving skills and attention to safety. Additionally, effective communication and coordination with team members and project managers are essential, as sampling schedules and requirements may change based on project needs or environmental factors.

What is the difference between Field Sampling Technician vs Environmental Technician?

AspectField Sampling TechnicianEnvironmental Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma, certifications in sampling methodsHigh school diploma, environmental certifications often preferred
Work EnvironmentOutdoor sampling sites, laboratoriesField sites, laboratories, office settings
Industry UsageEnvironmental, construction, manufacturingEnvironmental consulting, government agencies
Job FocusCollecting samples for analysisMonitoring environmental conditions, data collection

Both roles involve fieldwork and sample collection, but Environmental Technicians often have broader responsibilities including data analysis and reporting. The Field Sampling Technician primarily focuses on collecting samples accurately in various environments, making it a specialized role within the environmental industry.

What are popular job titles related to Field Sampling Technician jobs in California?

For Field Sampling Technician jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Field Sampling Technician jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Field Sampling Technician jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Field Sampling Technician jobs in CA?

For Field Sampling Technician jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Field Sampling Technician job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,221 per year, or $22.2 per hour.

Water Sampling Field Technician

La Verne, CA • On-site

The Metropolitan Water District Of Southern California
Utilities • 1 - 5K employees

$37.79 - $49.76/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

At the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California, we deliver reliable water to a region with 19 million people-and to accomplish this, we rely on a team of talented employees: innovators, problem-solvers, and collaborators who make it all possible.
There is currently one (1) opening for a Water Sampling Field Technician located at our F.E. Weymouth Filtration Plant in La Verne, California.
This recruitment may result in an eligibility list*.
Water Sampling Field Technician
Protect public health! Work hands-on in the water industry. Be part of something that matters!
Metropolitan is looking for an experienced water professional to join our team as a Water Sampling Field Technician. This role is ideal for someone with a strong background in water sampling, laboratory work, water treatment, and/or distribution who takes pride in accurate fieldwork and regulatory compliance.
In this role, you'll be on the front lines of drinking water quality-collecting, handling, and delivering samples that ensure safe and reliable water for millions of Southern Californians.
What You'll Do
As a Water Sampling Field Technician, you will:
  • Collect compliance and operational water samples throughout Metropolitan's service area in accordance with drinking water regulations
  • Perform field water quality testing using approved sampling techniques and instruments
  • Accurately document and enter data into the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS)
  • Transport water samples, equipment, and laboratory supplies across Metropolitan's system
  • Drive assigned routes to MWD and member agency facilities throughout Southern California
  • Properly collect, preserve, store, and deliver water samples following established procedures
  • Prepare, maintain, and troubleshoot compliance sample taps, delivery lines, and sampling equipment
  • Enter water quality data using handheld data loggers and upload results to LIMS
  • Maintain calibration records and documentation for field instruments and equipment
  • Prepare reports and maintain clear, accurate records
  • Safely operate Metropolitan vehicles and interact professionally with the public
  • Communicate effectively and work collaboratively with coworkers and other MWD staff

This is a career opportunity for water professionals who want stable work, meaningful responsibility, and the chance to contribute directly to public health and environmental stewardship.
This job announcement has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work being performed by employees in this classification / job.
To view the full job description, click here: Water Sampling Field Technician
Schedule: 4/10, Monday through Thursday, 5:00 am - 3:30 pm
Travel: This position will require travel to various District facilities throughout the service area, sometimes requiring overnight stay in the project area.
EMPLOYMENT STANDARDS
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Education and Experience: High school diploma or certificate of high school equivalency and six years of relevant experience.
Relevant Experience is defined as: a combination of experience performing water sample handling/collection, working in a laboratory setting, and/or experience in water treatment or distribution.
CERTIFICATIONS, LICENSES, AND REGISTRATION REQUIREMENTS
Employees in this position may be required to obtain and maintain the following certifications, licensing, and registrations:
Certificates:
• State of California Water Treatment Certification Grade II OR
• State of California Water Distribution Certification Grade II
License(s):
Valid California Class C Driver's License or equivalent (required at time of application) that allows you to drive during your employment.
CLOSING
Benefits:
• Competitive compensation
• Excellent medical, dental, life, vision plans.
• Deferred compensation in the form of a 401(k) plan (with matching contribution) and a 457 plan.
• Retirement benefits under the California Public Employees' Retirement System
• Tuition reimbursement
• Training and advancement opportunities
• Excellent working environment
• Public transportation reimbursements
For more information on MWD benefits, please use the following link: Benefits Regular Full Time Employee
ABOUT MWD
The Metropolitan Water District of Southern California is a state-established cooperative that, along with its 26 cities and retail suppliers, provides water for 19 million people in six counties. The district imports water from the Colorado River and Northern California to supplement local supplies, and helps its members to develop increased water conservation, recycling, storage and other resource-management programs.
The Metropolitan Water District of Southern California is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities. Qualified individuals with disabilities, who need a reasonable accommodation during the application or selection process, please call (213) 217-7738 or email: jobs@mwdh2o.com.
Metropolitan is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other protected characteristic(s).
Application Filing Period: Closes at 11:59 pm PT on the date stated in the job announcement. However it may close prior to the filing end date if sufficient applications have been received. If sufficient applications have not been received, then the filing period end date may be extended.
Eligibility List*: An eligibility list is a list of qualified candidates created when a job posting states that one will be established.
Candidates who meet the minimum qualifications listed in the original posting and successfully pass all stages of the recruitment process-but are not selected for the initial vacancy-may be placed on this list for future openings.
The list may be used to invite candidates to participate in a selection interview for a future vacancy in the same classification / title (if there is one). The duration of the list depends on the applicable bargaining unit.
Qualifying Experience: Your resume must at a minimum include the month and year you began and ended employment, name of the organization, your title, and a brief description of your experience. If your employment was part-time, make sure you identify it on your resume next to the month/year.
Sponsorship: Applicants for employment with The Metropolitan Water District of Southern California must have work authorization that does not now or in the future require sponsorship of a visa for employment authorization in the United States (i.e., H1-B or other employment-based immigration case).
#LI-Onsite