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Geography Major Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

USO

Major Gifts Officer - SF-Bay Area

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$86K - $111K/yr

We're looking for a dynamic major gifts professional who combines an entrepreneurial spirit with ... analytics, geography, recency of giving or other selected criteria. * Collaborate with other ...

USO

$84K - $110K/yr

We're looking for a dynamic major gifts professional who combines an entrepreneurial spirit with ... analytics, geography, recency of giving or other selected criteria. * Collaborate with other ...

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All JobsGeography Major JobsGeography Major Jobs in California

Geography Major information

See California salary details

$13

$28

$47

How much do geography major jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for geography major in California is $28.15, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.35 and $33.22 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What can you do with a geography major?

A geography major opens up a variety of career paths in both the public and private sectors. Graduates can work in urban planning, environmental consulting, geographic information systems (GIS), education, government agencies, and nonprofit organizations. The skills learned—such as data analysis, research, mapping, and spatial thinking—are valuable in roles dealing with climate change, transportation, disaster management, and more. Many geography majors also pursue advanced degrees or certifications to specialize further in their field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a geography major, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Geography Major, you need a solid understanding of physical and human geography, spatial analysis, and research methods, typically supported by a bachelor's degree in geography or a related field. Proficiency with Geographic Information Systems (GIS), remote sensing software, and data analysis tools is highly valuable. Strong analytical thinking, effective communication, and problem-solving abilities help you interpret data and present findings clearly. These skills enable geography majors to analyze complex spatial patterns and contribute to environmental planning, urban development, and policy-making.

What types of collaborative projects do geography majors typically work on in professional settings?

Geography majors often collaborate on interdisciplinary projects that involve data analysis, mapping, and field research with urban planners, environmental scientists, and policy makers. These projects might include creating GIS maps for city planning, conducting environmental impact assessments, or analyzing demographic trends to inform public policy. Working as part of a team is common, and strong communication skills are essential for integrating geographic data with other fields to solve real-world problems.

What is the difference between Geography Major vs Cartographer?

AspectGeography MajorCartographer
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in Geography or related fieldBachelor's degree in Geography, Cartography, or GIS
Work EnvironmentClassroom, research labs, fieldworkOffice, GIS labs, outdoor mapping sites
Industry UsageEducation, urban planning, environmental consultingMapping companies, government agencies, GIS firms
Common Search IntentUnderstanding geography studies, career optionsLearning about map creation, GIS careers

While a Geography Major provides foundational knowledge in spatial analysis, environmental issues, and regional studies, a Cartographer specializes in creating maps using GIS technology. Both roles often require similar educational backgrounds, but cartographers focus more on technical mapping skills and software. Geography majors may pursue careers in planning or research, whereas cartographers are directly involved in map production and spatial data visualization.

Is geography a useful major?

A geography major prepares students for careers in areas such as urban planning, environmental management, GIS analysis, and transportation. The major develops skills in spatial analysis, data interpretation, and map-making, which are valuable in many industries and often require proficiency with GIS software and fieldwork.

Which is the highest paying job in geography major?

The highest paying jobs for geography majors often include roles such as Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Manager, Remote Sensing Director, or Urban Planner with advanced experience. These positions typically require specialized skills, certifications, and experience, and can offer salaries exceeding $80,000 annually, especially in private sector or government agencies.

What are popular job titles related to Geography Major jobs in California?

For Geography Major jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Geography Major jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Geography Major jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Geography Major jobs?

Cities in California with the most Geography Major job openings:

Geography Major jobs near you
Infographic showing various Geography Major job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,552 per year, or $28.1 per hour.

Geography Adjunct Faculty

University of La Verne

La Verne, CA • On-site

$27.04/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Re-posted 4 days ago

University Of La Verne rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

71st of 627 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Posting Summary
Position Title Geography Adjunct Faculty Division Provost Major Department College of Arts and Sciences Department History/Political Sci. Dept. Location La Verne Main Campus University Overview Diversity Statement
The University supports a diverse and inclusive environment where students recognize and benefit from the life experiences and viewpoints of other students, faculty, and staff. Diversity is an active and intentional practice that supports difference and multiplicity to expand knowledge, educate capable citizens, develop the whole person, and serve our local and global communities. Promoting and sustaining diversity is a commitment to educational quality and the creation of positive, respectful learning communities.
Job Description
The University of La Verne is a private not-for-profit university founded in 1891 located in La Verne, California. The core values that we live by are Ethical Reasoning, Diversity and Inclusivity, Lifelong Learning and Community and Civic Engagement.
If you're passionate about these values, join us at the University of La Verne! 
The Department of History & Political Science invites applications for adjunct faculty positions to teach GEOG 201: Introduction to Geography.
This is a continuous recruitment for an applicant pool to fill part-time, adjunct assignments on an as-needed basis.
Applications are accepted year-round and will remain in the pool.
Required Qualifications
A Ph.D. in Geography is preferred. Although M.A and ABD candidates in Geography will also be considered.
Preferred Qualifications Benefits Summary
Below is a list of benefits and perks offered to Adjunct Faculty: 
* Benefit Hub (discount perks) 
* Free Parking 
* Adjunct Faculty Development Funds 
* Staff discounted lunches at the Spot 
* 10% off discount at the University of La Verne Bookstore and Graphics 
* Tuition Remission (Senior Adjuncts) 
* Contribution Retirement Plan (must meet hours) for Mandatory - Voluntary Contribution at anytime 
* Medical (must meet hours) 
* Utilize services offered at CTL and the wellness center. 
Employment is contingent upon successful completion and clearance of a background check and employment verification.
Physical Demands Summary
Hiring Pay Rate
Hiring Salary Per Hiring Rank:
Adjunct Instructor (no terminal degree): $27.04
Adjunct Professor (with terminal degree): $28.08
Posting Detail Information
Posting Number AF018P Job Open Date 03/02/2020 Job Close Date Open Until Filled No Special Instructions to Applicants Advertising Summary

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