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Geography Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Mt. San Jacinto College

Dual Enrollment (Geography)

CA · On-site

Geography Division: Instruction Opening Date: 06/19/2017 Closing Date: Continuous Salary Level: 1 Salary Schedule Range (From Step - To): 1 Weekly Hours: Varies (TBD) Daily Work Schedule (Start ...

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Geography information

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$13

$28

$47

How much do geography jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for geography 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 do geographers do?

Geographers study the Earth and its land, features, inhabitants, and phenomena. They examine both the physical properties of a region and how humans interact with their environment, often using maps, spatial data, and field observations. Their work can involve researching climate change, urban planning, population trends, and cultural patterns. Geographers may specialize in physical geography, human geography, or geographic information systems (GIS). Their findings help inform policy decisions, environmental management, and community development.

How to get a job in geography?

A bachelor’s degree in geography, cartography, or a related subject can help you pursue a job in this field. During the pursuit of your degree, try to spend some time doing fieldwork in an internship. This can give you an idea of the career opportunities, allow you to hone in on your specializations, and grant you valuable experience. Whether it be a surveying or urban planning, you can make great use of your geography skills as an intern. You should also work to develop strong communication and organizational skills. Hands-on experience with specialized computer programs is also useful, especially for cartographers and planners.

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

To thrive as a Geographer, you need a solid background in physical and human geography, spatial analysis, and usually a relevant degree such as geography or environmental science. Familiarity with Geographic Information Systems (GIS), remote sensing software, and data visualization tools is highly valued. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills help geographers interpret data and present findings effectively. These skills enable geographers to analyze complex spatial patterns, support decision-making, and address real-world environmental and societal challenges.

What are some common challenges geography professionals face when working on multidisciplinary projects?

Geography professionals frequently collaborate with experts from fields such as urban planning, environmental science, and public policy, which can present challenges like differing methodologies and communication styles. Navigating varying data standards, integrating spatial analysis with non-spatial data, and aligning project goals require flexibility and strong teamwork skills. Being proactive in fostering open communication and understanding each discipline’s priorities can help geography professionals contribute effectively and ensure project success.

What is the difference between Geography vs Cartography?

AspectGeographyCartography
Required CredentialsBachelor's or higher in Geography or related fieldBachelor's or higher in Cartography, Geography, or related field
Work EnvironmentFieldwork, research, classroom, GIS labsDesigning maps, GIS software, digital and print map production
Industry UsageEducation, research, urban planning, environmental managementMapping agencies, GIS firms, government agencies
Common Search/ComparisonUnderstanding spatial relationships, environmental issuesCreating accurate maps, visual data representation

Geography focuses on studying Earth's landscapes, environments, and spatial relationships, often involving fieldwork and research. Cartography specializes in designing and producing maps, using GIS technology and graphic skills. While both roles involve spatial data, geography emphasizes analysis and understanding, whereas cartography centers on map creation and visualization.

What jobs can you do with geography?

A geography degree prepares individuals for careers such as cartographer, GIS analyst, urban planner, environmental consultant, and transportation planner. These roles often require skills in spatial analysis, data management, and familiarity with geographic information systems (GIS) software. Job opportunities exist in government agencies, environmental organizations, consulting firms, and education sectors.
More about Geography jobs

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

The most popular types of Geography jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Geography jobs?

Cities in California with the most Geography job openings:

Geography jobs near you
Infographic showing various Geography job openings in California as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 60% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 20% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $58,552 per year, or $28.1 per hour.

Geography

Fullerton, CA • On-site

The Chronicle Of Higher Education, Inc.
Newspaper Publishers • 201 - 500 employees
Learn more about The Chronicle Of Higher Education, Inc.external

$5.5K - $6.6K/mo

Other

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

Geography & the Environment, Part‑Time Lecturer Pool

The Department of Geography & the Environment at CSU Fullerton invites applications for its Part‑Time Lecturer Pool to teach undergraduate courses in physical, environmental, regional, and human geography.

This pool provides part‑time lecturers for the department as needed. Qualified applicants will be contacted when positions become available. Appointments are temporary and often made just prior to the start of the academic term; applicants must be available on very short notice.

Required Qualifications
  • Master's degree in Geography or a closely related field.
  • Demonstrated ability to interact and work effectively with a wide and culturally diverse range of students, including first‑generation college students.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience working with diverse populations and fostering a collaborative, supportive, and inclusive environment.
  • Relevant work experience and professional capabilities.
  • College and university teaching experience, with evidence of high‑quality teaching.
Responsibilities

Teach undergraduate courses in physical, environmental, regional, and human geography. Prepare syllabi, assignments, and reading materials. Work collaboratively with department personnel for curriculum development.

Appointment Details

All appointments are for one semester only. Initial appointments are made as Lecturers under the CSU Collective Bargaining Agreement. The compensation range is $5,507–$6,677 per month, corresponding to the number of units taught.

Regular performance evaluations determine which lecturers will be retained for future assignments. Syllabi, assignments, and reading materials will be reviewed by the departmental personnel committee.

Application Materials
  1. Cover Letter stating courses qualified to teach.
  2. Curriculum Vitae.
  3. Copy of unofficial transcripts for highest terminal degree.
  4. Three references with contact information.
  5. Inclusive Excellence Statement.
  6. Sample of course syllabi.
  7. Teaching Evaluations (if available).

Required materials before official hire:

  1. Three letters of recommendation.
  2. Official transcripts from the institution’s Registrar’s office.
Performance Evaluation

Regular performance evaluations are administered by the department in accordance with the faculty Collective Bargaining Agreement and University Policy Statement 210.070.

Background Clearance Notice

This offer is contingent upon satisfactory completion of a background check. Continued employment requires completion of a background screening as required under CSU policy.

Mandated Reporter

The position holder is considered a mandated reporter under the California Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Act and must comply with CSU Executive Order 1083.

Out‑of‑State Employment Policy

The CSU is a state entity whose business operations reside in California and requires hiring employees to perform CSU related work within the State of California.

Title IX

Notice of non‑discrimination on the basis of gender or sex and contact information for the Title IX Coordinator is available (link omitted).

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