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Natural Resource Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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Natural Resource information

See California salary details

$15.8K

$92K

$137.7K

How much do natural resource jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for natural resource in California is $91,985.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $77,500.00 and $109,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a natural resource professional?

Natural Resource professionals are experts who manage, conserve, and study natural resources such as water, soil, forests, minerals, and wildlife. They work in various settings, including government agencies, environmental consulting firms, and non-profit organizations, to ensure that natural resources are used sustainably and responsibly. Their roles may involve conducting research, developing management plans, monitoring ecosystems, and advising on environmental policy. These professionals play a crucial role in balancing human needs with the protection and preservation of the environment.

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

To thrive as a Natural Resource Manager, you need expertise in environmental science, resource management, and ecological principles, typically supported by a relevant degree in natural resources or environmental studies. Familiarity with GIS software, data analysis tools, and regulatory compliance systems is commonly required. Strong communication, problem-solving, and leadership skills help professionals engage stakeholders and manage projects effectively. These skills ensure sustainable management of natural resources, compliance with regulations, and successful collaboration across agencies and communities.

What are some of the main challenges faced by professionals working in natural resource management roles?

One of the biggest challenges in natural resource management roles is balancing the needs of environmental conservation with economic and community interests. Professionals often need to navigate complex regulatory requirements and engage with diverse stakeholders, including government agencies, local communities, and industry partners. Additionally, adapting to the impacts of climate change and emerging sustainability concerns requires continuous learning and flexibility. Daily tasks may involve fieldwork, data analysis, and policy development, all of which demand strong problem-solving and communication skills.

What is the difference between Natural Resource vs Environmental Technician?

AspectNatural ResourceEnvironmental Technician
Required CredentialsDegree in environmental science, forestry, or related fieldAssociate's or bachelor's in environmental science or related field
Work EnvironmentFieldwork in forests, parks, or natural areasField and laboratory work in environmental testing sites
Employer & Industry UsageGovernment agencies, conservation organizations, forestry companiesEnvironmental consulting firms, government agencies, industrial sites
Common Search & ComparisonNatural ResourceEnvironmental Technician

Natural Resource professionals focus on managing and conserving natural environments, often involving fieldwork and resource management. Environmental Technicians support environmental assessments, testing, and compliance activities. While both roles work in environmental sectors, Natural Resource roles emphasize resource management, whereas Environmental Technicians focus on environmental testing and data collection.

What are some careers in natural resources?

Careers in natural resources include roles such as environmental scientists, conservation officers, forestry technicians, wildlife biologists, and resource managers. These jobs often require knowledge of ecology, environmental policies, and the use of tools like GIS software, with many positions requiring relevant degrees or certifications.

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

The most popular types of Natural Resource jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Natural Resource jobs in California?

For Natural Resource jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in California are hiring for Natural Resource jobs?

Cities in California with the most Natural Resource job openings:

Infographic showing various Natural Resource job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $91,985 per year, or $44.2 per hour.

Parks Natural Resource Program Coordinator

San Jose, CA • On-site


County of Santa Clara
Public Administration • 10K+ employees

9.1

Company rating: 9.1 out of 10

Based on 26 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

73rd of 852 rated public administrative organizations

Great coworkers

People enjoy working here

Good employer


$91K - $111K/yr

Full-time

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Description Under general direction, to plan, evaluate, implement and coordinate the goals and missions of the County Parks and Recreation Department's Natural Resource Management Program, which is designed to provide natural science information, natural resource program expertise, conservation and enhancement of the department's natural resources, such as wildlife, vegetation, geology, aquatic ecosystems and other sensitive ecosystems. Typical Tasks Coordinates and implements natural resource management policies, procedures, plans, and activities; Develops, coordinates and implements joint natural resource management projects in accordance with established policies with entities, including but not limited to, academic institutions, County Park staff, volunteers and other related County and outside agencies; Coordinates and implements programs and activities that conserve and/or enhance the natural resources, wildlife, vegetation, geology, aquatic ecosystems and other sensitive ecosystems with park staff, volunteers, or other outside agencies and institutions; Recommends potential grant funding projects and assists with preparation of grant proposals; coordinates, implements and tracks projects funded by grants and grant funds related to natural resource management; Coordinates and implements project monitoring and surveys/inventory of natural resources, including but not limited to; vegetation, wildlife, sensitive and listed plants and wildlife, etc. Trains, leads, assigns and keeps apprised of work status of subordinate staff and other personnel engaged in implementing natural resource programs and/or monitoring and natural research techniques; Establishes, coordinates, and implements methods for monitoring impacts to park natural resources, changes in ecosystem process, effectiveness of department practices and projects, survey and inventory of natural resource and current resource management techniques; Recommends draft operation budget for Natural Resource Management Program within the functional assignment; Administers, coordinates and/or directs consultant work on biotic surveys for environmental assessments and implements natural resource restoration and/or enhancement projects; Coordinates, prepares or assists with the preparation of regulatory permit applications required for resource management programs, memorandum of understanding and other documents required for resource programs and coordinates and tracks the conditions of compliance; Establishes methods and monitors baseline conditions of natural resources for various parks and evaluates effectiveness of up-to-date practices in resource management techniques; Serves as departmental liaison with natural resource management agencies and organizations and participates in public meetings regarding resource management issues; Trains and leads staff in resource management techniques; Plans, coordinates and implements mitigation, monitoring and vegetation management programs within assigned park region or functional assignment, including but not limited to; livestock grazing licenses, prescribed burning, integrated pest management programs, etc.

Reads, interprets and applies environmental regulations, guidelines and polices; understands plans, specifications and other contract documents related to natural resource management; Provides natural resource technical input on one or more aspects of natural resource management; May be assigned as a Disaster Service Worker, as required; Performs other related duties as assigned. Employment Standards Possession of a Bachelor's degree from an accredited college in Natural Resource Management, Environmental Resources, Biological Sciences, Environmental Studies or a closely related field. -AND- Two (2) years of professional experience in the planning and protection of natural resources, including conducting environmental research.

Special Requirements: Possession of a valid California driver's license upon appointment and the ability to qualify for and maintain a County Driver's Permit. Possession of a Standard First Aid and CPR certificate issued by the American Red Cross before completion of the probationary period. Obtain and maintain a Wildfire Red Card (32 hours of training and annual refresher training) before completion of the probationary period.

Knowledge of: Ecology of wildlife communities typical of Santa Clara County; Wildlife habitat impact assessment techniques including modeling methodologies; California Environmental Quality Act, National Environmental Protective Act and other environmental laws and regulations; Design and implementation of wildlife and vegetative monitoring programs; Principles and techniques of revegetation and restoration ecology; California plant species and communities, particularly those typical of or similar to those in Santa Clara County; Environmental regulation related to wetlands, lake and riparian environments, endangered and threatened species; non-point source pollution and erosion control and other environmental issues; Planning and practice of resource monitoring including collection techniques. Ability to: Work independently as well as in a team environment in remote settings; Prepare resource management plans, policies, procedures and guidelines, conduct baseline biotic surveys and monitor resource conditions and design practical and successful revegetation projects; Prepare and maintain accurate records or resource monitoring and program data; Plan and implement mitigation, monitoring, and vegetative management programs including the use of prescribed burning, grazing, mowing, herbicides and manual controls; Interpret and apply environmental regulations, guidelines, and policies; Read, interpret and understand plans, specifications and other contract documents related to resource management; Train other staff members on resource management, monitoring and research techniques; Communicate clearly and effectively both orally and in writing in order to prepare and deliver presentations and establish and maintain cooperative relationships with the public and other agencies. Physical Requirements Must be able to occasionally lift, carry, push and pull supplies weighing up to sixty (60) pound; Must be able to stand, walk in remote areas, or sit for extending periods of time; Must be able to stoop, bend, reach, grasp and manipulate small objects with hands.

Willingness to work weekends, holidays, or other irregular hours. Willingness to wear and maintain a departmental prescribed uniform.



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