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Geography Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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

See California salary details

$13

$28

$47

How much do geography jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 4, 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 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 are available in government agencies, environmental organizations, consulting firms, and urban development projects.

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 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 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:
Infographic showing various Geography job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, 25% Part Time, and 25% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $58,552 per year, or $28.1 per hour.

Geography - Associate Instructor

Cabrillo College

Aptos, CA • On-site

Part-time

Retirement

Re-posted 13 days ago


Job description

Geography - Associate Instructor at Cabrillo College Share on X Print Application Deadline 5/21/2027 11:59 PM Pacific Date Posted 7/16/2026 Contact Human Resources Number of Openings Not Specified Salary Pay Range 1,665 - 2,556 Stipend Length of Work Year See Position Description Employment Type Part Time Job Description / Essential Elements: Print Geography - Associate Instructor Cabrillo College Salary: See Position Description Job Type: Associate (Part-time) Job Number: 2026-02133 Closing: 5/21/2027 11:59 PM Pacific Location: 6500 Soquel Drive, Aptos, CA Department: Geography Please apply for this job directly on the Cabrillo College job opportunities page https://www.cabrillo.edu/human-resources/applicant-resources/. Employment Opportunity Cabrillo College is accepting applications in order to fill temporary, part-time faculty assignment(s) and to establish an eligibility pool for positions that may become available in 2026 Fall and/or 2027 Spring Semesters onsite at the Aptos Campus: 2026 Fall Geog 1 (Physical Geography) Geog 1L (Physical Geography Laboratory) Geog 2 (Cultural Geography) Geog 3 (Introduction to Weather and Climate) Geog 5 (California Geography) 2027 Spring Geog 1 (Physical Geography) Geog 1L (Physical Geography Laboratory) Geog 2 (Cultural Geography) Geog 3 (Introduction to Weather and Climate) Geog 3L (Weather and Climate Laboratory) This associate position is open for application submission through the deadline date as noted above ORuntil the position has been filled. The location for this position is listed above

We need YOU. Cabrillo College is looking for Faculty to provide quality programs and services for a diverse student population promoting ever-evolving needs as our students grow toward their individual aspirational goals. Cabrillo is an Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI) with a special focus on enhancing the Latinx student experience.

Come join our team, valuing high-level and innovative instruction, support services, a welcoming environment, and helping to change the world one student at a time. The ideal candidate will share Cabrillo's commitment to educating its racially and socioeconomically diverse student population. Cabrillo College serves approximately 11,000+ students per term, For the 2024 Academic Year, 61% of Cabrillo students are members of minoritized populations, identifying themselves as LatinX (50%), Multi Ethnic (6%), Asian (3%), Black Non-Hispanic (1%), Filipino (About the College: Situated on Monterey Bay in the county of Santa Cruz, California, Cabrillo College is highly regarded for its success of transfer and career education, and currently serves over 11,000 students each semester.

Cabrillo College transfers many of its students to three nearby universities - the University of California at Santa Cruz, San Jose State University, and California State University at Monterey Bay. Cabrillo's career education is closely connected to the nearby agricultural and farming industries as well as the Silicon Valley business environment. Faculty at Cabrillo College actively participate in curriculum development, program planning, and serve on participatory governance committees.

Cabrillo provides an excellent opportunity to learn, collaborate, create, and make a difference in the lives of its diverse student body and community. About the Department:https://www.cabrillo.edu/geography/ About Associate Faculty Requirements: At the time of appointment for this position, Cabrillo College requires employees to maintain residence and permanently reside within the state of California. Candidates must understand when applying that at the time of appointment, they will need to have moved to the State of California (if applicable)

Candidates must also understand that Associate Faculty assignments are considered short-term and temporary; employment for this short-term and temporary position may be terminated by the District as permitted by Education Code Section 87665 and the CCFT bargaining unit agreement. Examples of Duties Teach assigned classes, which may include evening or off-campus assignments Engage in participatory governance committees, processes, research, service, and initiatives such as Guided Pathways Maintain timely and accurate records of student enrollment, attendance, and academic progress Provide academic assistance and related services to students during scheduled office hours Cooperate with and participate as may be required in District investigations and/or student grievance matters of alleged unlawful harassment, discrimination, and retaliation Demonstrate sensitivity to and understanding of diverse academic, socioeconomic, cultural, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation, and ethnic backgrounds of community college students, faculty and staff Complete required District trainings such as Title IX, Mandated Reporter, EEO/Diversity/Elimination of Bias, Workplace Safety, etc. Minimum Qualifications Required Education and Experience: Understanding of, and sensitivity to, the diverse academic, socio-economic, ethnic, religious, and cultural backgrounds, disability, and sexual orientation, of community college students, faculty and staff AND Master's in geography OR Bachelor's in geography AND Master's in geology, history, meteorology or oceanography OR Alternate requirements for teaching Geog 1 (Physical Geography) AND Geog 1L (Physical Geography Laboratory) ONLY are: Master's in geology, geophysics, earth sciences, meteorology, oceanography or paleontology OR Bachelor's in geology AND Master's in geography, physics, or geochemistry Possess a lifetime California Community College Instructor credential in Geography OR https://drive.google.com/file/d/1JG_WfngILRUXto7vKZ3yvq9DibaA5C0g/view The state of California has established minimum qualifications for academic positions in California Community Colleges to promote professionalism, instructional integrity, and academic rigor

Each discipline has specific, approved degree majors that are listed above. You must complete, sign, and attach an Equivalency Form with your application if your degree major does not match one of the disciplines listed above. This form allows Cabrillo College's Equivalency Committee to review your education and/or professional experience to determine whether it is equivalent in level, content, and rigor to the required degree.

Applications cannot be considered without a completed Equivalency Form, even if your degree is closely related. For example: If the Minimum Qualifications (MQs) list a Master's in Geology, Geophysics, Earth Sciences, and your degree is in Geosciences or Earth and Environmental Studies, you must request equivalency by submitting the form with your application. TO REQUEST EQUIVALENCY: Complete the https://drive.google.com/file/d/1JG_WfngILRUXto7vKZ3yvq9DibaA5C0g/view and attach it to your application

Be sure to attach supporting documents such as unofficial transcripts, course descriptions, certificates, or verification of professional experience. Still completing your degree. Applicants currently finishing their degree(s) are welcome to apply.

However, they must also submit an https://drive.google.com/file/d/1JG_WfngILRUXto7vKZ3yvq9DibaA5C0g/view with unofficial transcripts. This requirement also applies to applicants who have completed all coursework but are awaiting official degree conferral. Required Professional Expertise: Currency and depth of knowledge in the applicable professional field Knowledge of and commitment to teaching strategies and practices that enhance student success at community colleges, including effective use of technology Effective oral and written communication skills

Demonstrated ability to teach the courses or perform the duties effectively as described above Demonstrated ability to communicate well with students of diverse academic, ethnic, socioeconomic, and cultural backgrounds; gender identities, sexual orientations; and students with disabilities Evidence of professional activities and service beyond the primary teaching assignment Development and review of curriculum as well as including assessment of learning Demonstrated ability to work cooperatively with others Demonstrated responsiveness to and understanding of the racial, socioeconomic, academic, and cultural diversity within the community college student population, including students with different ability statuses (e.g., physical and/or learning) as these factors relate to the need for equity-minded practices in the classroom Demonstrated ability to reflect critically on institutional and teaching practices that aim to increase cultural responsiveness Knowledge and understanding of the accountability and critical dimensions of equity Demonstrated ability addressing issues of equity in the classroom Desired Qualifications/Performance Expectations: Successful teaching experience at the community college level Demonstrated ability to employ innovative teaching techniques and methodologies Experience teaching diverse student populations Successful online teaching experience Knowledge of culturally-responsive pedagogical teaching techniques and effective ways for engaging students who are historically under-represented and under-served. For additional information, please review our https://www.cabrillo.edu/human-resources/applicant-resources/. Additional Information Starting Salary: $1,665 - $2,556 per teaching unit, per semester; salary placement determined by documented education and experience; https://drive.google.com/file/d/1lYMgQAVuuSHvr0_wxFwuY9TYwzoSl_7u/view

An annual doctoral stipend of $111 per unit is granted to eligible associate faculty. Assignments may be at various campus locations; days, evenings, and/or weekends; hours to be arranged. COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS: Faculty employees are required to join the California State Teachers' Retirement System (CalSTRS) and as such contribute to CalSTRS on a pre-tax basis.

Position scheduled to begin at the start of the semester needed, or as needed, pending Governing Board ratification. Salary is subject to proration based on the beginning date of assignment. Cabrillo is unable to sponsor work visas.

APPLICATION PROCESS Complete the application with a minimum of three (3) professional references and answer all supplemental questions; provide detailed information to aid in determining the minimum qualification requirements have been met Attach resume or CV detailing teaching and work experience Attach one of the following: Unofficial transcripts from all colleges attended displaying any degrees conferred (copies, scans, photos, and downloads are acceptable). Foreign transcripts must be evaluated for U.S. equivalency https://docs.google.com/document/d/1wyUc0sSnODNqM-aT0-gbsOLd2cPOGwrmWlGQ9Bn4968/edit (at the applicant's expense) OR Copy of a Lifetime California Community College Instructor credential in Geography OR Completed and signed Equivalency Form -https://drive.google.com/file/d/1JG_WfngILRUXto7vKZ3yvq9DibaA5C0g/view (optional)

Submit this form with supporting materials if you do not possess the minimum qualifications as listed in the job announcement and feel you have the equivalent education and/or experience. Attention Applicants Only completed applications with the above required documents will be reviewed by the committee; additional documents will not be reviewed by the committee. Remove personally identifiable information such as personal photos, social security number, birth date, age, and gender from your application materials.

Expenses related to the recruitment process are the responsibility of the applicant. Cabrillo is unable to sponsor work visas. Questions.

Concerns. Please contact HR as Departments, Divisions, and Committee Members are unable to discuss active recruitments with potential candidates. Selection Procedure This associate position is open through the deadline date as noted above OR until the position has been filled.A search committee will review application materials and invite applicants for an interview

Meeting the posted requirements does not guarantee an interview. Conditions of Employment Selected candidates given a conditional offer of employment are required to submit tuberculosis screening clearance results, official transcripts, proof of eligibility to work in the United States, and present their Social Security card upon hire (for payroll purposes). Cabrillo College is an https://www.e-verify.gov/employees employer

EEO Statement Cabrillo College is an equal opportunity employer and actively seeks a diverse pool of qualified applicants. The policy of the College is to encourage applications from all persons. No person shall be denied employment because of ethnicity or race, color, sex or gender, gender identity, gender expression, age, religion, marital status, disability, sexual orientation, national origin, medical conditions, status or protected veteran status.

Accommodations Persons with disabilities who require reasonable accommodation to complete the employment process must notify Human Resources at mailto:cabrillohr@cabrillo.edu. To apply, please visit https://apptrkr.com/7329666 Copyright 2025 Jobelephant.com Inc. All rights reserved

https://www.jobelephant.com/ Requirements / Qualifications For more information on Requirements/Qualifications, please contact the employer. Comments and Other Information For more information on Comments and Other Information, please contact the employer. CalSTRS Links Not all postings qualify for CalSTRS

Informational Only. CalSTRS Info for New Educators ADD TO WISHLIST VIEW JOB WISHLIST APPLY (Current Employees ONLY) APPLY QUICK APPLY