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Operational Psychologist Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Responsibilities include psychological assessments, diagnosis and treatment of mental health conditions, trauma recovery, resilience training, crisis intervention, and supporting the operational ...

Responsibilities include psychological assessments, diagnosis and treatment of mental health conditions, trauma recovery, resilience training, crisis intervention, and supporting the operational ...

Responsibilities include psychological assessments, diagnosis and treatment of mental health conditions, trauma recovery, resilience training, crisis intervention, and supporting the operational ...

Psychologist

San Diego, CA · On-site +1

$86K - $195K/yr

Social Worker, Psychologist, Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor, and Marriage & Family ... Monday - Friday, standard operational hours with occasional evenings based on operational need of ...

Responsibilities include psychological assessments, diagnosis and treatment of mental health conditions, trauma recovery, resilience training, crisis intervention, and supporting the operational ...

Showing results 41-60

Operational Psychologist information

See California salary details

$10.9K

$91.6K

$393.3K

How much do operational psychologist jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for operational psychologist in California is $91,598.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $65,600.00 and $115,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an operational psychologist do?

An Operational Psychologist applies psychological principles to support military, law enforcement, and intelligence operations. They assist with personnel selection, training, performance optimization, and stress management in high-risk environments. They may also provide expertise in areas such as resilience training, interrogation support, and threat assessment. Their work helps enhance decision-making, mission effectiveness, and overall psychological well-being of personnel in operational settings.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an operational psychologist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Operational Psychologist, you need an advanced degree in psychology, licensure to practice, and a strong understanding of psychological assessment and intervention techniques in high-stress environments. Familiarity with assessment tools, data analysis software, and adherence to ethical standards specific to operational or military psychology is often required. Strong interpersonal skills, cultural awareness, and the ability to communicate effectively under pressure make candidates stand out. These qualifications enable Operational Psychologists to support mission readiness and mental resilience within demanding organizational settings.

What types of teams or professionals does an operational psychologist typically work with?

Operational Psychologists often collaborate closely with multidisciplinary teams, including military personnel, law enforcement officers, medical staff, and leadership. They provide psychological consultation, support resilience training, and assist with selection processes or critical incident responses. These professionals frequently work in both field and office environments, adapting to diverse operational needs. Effective teamwork and communication are essential, as the role requires integrating psychological expertise within fast-paced, mission-focused organizations.

How do you become an operational psychologist?

To become an operational psychologist, you typically need a doctoral degree in psychology, such as a Ph.D. or Psy.D., along with specialized training in applied or military psychology. Licensing or certification is usually required, and gaining experience through internships or military service can be beneficial for working in operational or high-stress environments.

How much do operational psychologists make?

Operational psychologists typically earn between $70,000 and $120,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the specific agency or organization. They often work in high-stress environments requiring specialized training and security clearances.

What are popular job titles related to Operational Psychologist jobs in California?

For Operational Psychologist jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Operational Psychologist jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Operational Psychologist jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Operational Psychologist jobs?

Cities in California with the most Operational Psychologist job openings:

Infographic showing various Operational Psychologist job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $91,598 per year, or $44 per hour.

Clinical Psychologist - $65k Bonus

U.S. Navy

Pomona, CA • On-site

$65K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 28 days ago


United States Navy rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 380 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

42nd of 49 rated military and defense


Job description

Total Annual Compensation: $124,050 – $169,711

Key Responsibilities:

As a Navy Clinical Psychologist, you'll provide critical mental health support to Sailors, Marines, and their families. Responsibilities include psychological assessments, diagnosis and treatment of mental health conditions, trauma recovery, resilience training, crisis intervention, and supporting the operational readiness of military personnel worldwide.

What You Get:

• Up to $65,000 Sign-On Bonus OR Loan Repayment

• $5,000 Annual Incentive Pay

• $8,000 Board Certification Pay (if certified)

• CME Allowance

• Exceptional Benefits – 30 Days PTO, full retirement, and more

• 12 Weeks Paid Maternity Leave

• Unlimited Sick Leave

• No Production Requirements – focus 100% on patient care

• Free or Subsidized Housing – on-base or housing allowance

• Forever GI Bill – 36 months full tuition + housing + $1,000 books (for you or your dependents)

• State-of-the-Art Facilities + multidisciplinary care teams

• No Billing Headaches – patient care fully covered

• Comprehensive Medical, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance

• Federal Pension + Thrift Savings Plan (401k equivalent) with 5% Match

• Opportunities for overseas assignments, humanitarian missions, and operational support

Potential Practice Locations:

• San Diego, CA

• Bremerton, WA

• Jacksonville, FL

• Portsmouth, VA

• Bethesda, MD

• Additional locations available nationwide and overseas

Minimum Requirements:

• Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) or Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Clinical Psychology from an APA-accredited program

• Licensed Clinical Psychologist

• U.S. Citizenship

• Between the ages of 21 and 64 (Federal Law: Title 10 U.S. Code section 531 and 532)

The U.S. Navy is actively hiring Clinical Psychologists to support the mental health, resilience, and readiness of our Sailors, Marines, and military families worldwide.

Interested in learning more? Apply today or reach out directly for a confidential conversation.

Michael Yalon

Email: Michael.C.Yalon.Mil@US.Navy.Mil

Call/Text: (520) 954-1120

Connect with me on LinkedIn:www.linkedin.com/in/myalon


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About US Navy

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

National security, national security and international affairs, public safety statistics centers and offices, guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing and public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Washington, DC, US

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