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Sustainable Development Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Hanna Center

Manager of Development

Sonoma, CA · On-site

$100K - $135K/yr

... and sustainability. Hanna Center has a strong and growing development function; this leader will ... refine and expand fundraising strategy while bringing strategic innovation to deepen partnerships ...

Gotion, Inc.

Battery Cell R&D Engineer

Fremont, CA · On-site

$100K - $130K/yr

... sustainable development. Gotion is powered by a leading power battery technology company that provides solutions for vehicles including the world's first mass commercial e-bus route. Gotion is a ...

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All JobsSustainable Development JobsSustainable Development Jobs in California

Sustainable Development information

See California salary details

$32.6K

$76.4K

$131.3K

How much do sustainable development jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for sustainable development in California is $76,424.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $57,700.00 and $89,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in Sustainable Development, and why are they important?

To excel in Sustainable Development, you need expertise in environmental science, project management, and policy analysis, often supported by a relevant degree such as environmental studies or urban planning. Familiarity with tools like GIS software, sustainability reporting frameworks (e.g., GRI, LEED), and certification programs is typically required. Outstanding communication, stakeholder engagement, and problem-solving skills help professionals drive impactful and collaborative sustainability initiatives. These abilities are vital for successfully integrating sustainable practices into projects and achieving long-term environmental, social, and economic goals.

What is sustainable development?

Sustainable development is a framework for meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. It involves balancing economic growth, environmental protection, and social well-being to create a healthy and equitable society. Sustainable development encompasses practices and policies that promote responsible resource use, reduce environmental impact, and ensure long-term prosperity for communities. The concept is central to global efforts to address challenges such as poverty, climate change, and resource scarcity.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in sustainable development roles?

Professionals in sustainable development often navigate the complexities of balancing environmental, social, and economic priorities, which can sometimes be in conflict. Key challenges include securing stakeholder buy-in, managing limited resources, and adapting projects to evolving regulations and community needs. Collaboration across diverse teams—such as engineers, policymakers, and community representatives—is essential for success. Additionally, staying current with best practices and emerging technologies in sustainability is crucial for impactful project outcomes.

What is the difference between Sustainable Development vs Environmental Consultant?

AspectSustainable DevelopmentEnvironmental Consultant
Required CredentialsDegree in environmental science, sustainability, or related fields; certifications like LEED or GRIDegree in environmental science, engineering, or related fields; certifications like LEED or EIA
Work EnvironmentPolicy planning, strategic development, cross-sector collaborationSite assessments, environmental impact analysis, compliance consulting
Employer & Industry UsageGovernment agencies, NGOs, corporations focusing on sustainability strategiesConsulting firms, engineering companies, government agencies conducting environmental assessments

While both roles focus on environmental issues, Sustainable Development emphasizes creating long-term strategies for sustainability across sectors, whereas Environmental Consultants primarily conduct assessments and provide compliance advice. Sustainable Development professionals often work on policy and planning, while Environmental Consultants focus on technical evaluations and regulatory adherence.

What are popular job titles related to Sustainable Development jobs in California? For Sustainable Development jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Sustainable Development jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Sustainable Development jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Sustainable Development jobs? Cities in California with the most Sustainable Development job openings:
Sustainable Development jobs near you
Infographic showing various Sustainable Development job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $76,424 per year, or $36.7 per hour.
Adjunct Instructor in Sustainable Biotechnology

Adjunct Instructor in Sustainable Biotechnology

Brandeis University

Brandeis, CA

$6.2K/mo

Part-time

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

Brandeis University's Graduate Professional Studies (GPS) is looking for an industry leader to teach in our Master of Science in Applied Biotechnology & Enterprise program. Brandeis University is consistently ranked among the nation's top universities, and our online courses are developed using best practices in online learning. Information about Brandeis University and Graduate Professional Studies can be found online.

Course Title: Sustainable Biotechnology

This course examines the development and implementation of environmentally sustainable technologies in biotechnology. Topics include renewable bioproducts, green bioprocessing, circular bioeconomy models, and environmental regulatory compliance. Students will explore how sustainable practices are applied across the biotech industry, including pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and energy.

Qualifications

Qualified candidates will have Subject Matter Qualifications in the following areas.

Required:

- Current active employment in the relevant biotech or pharmaceutical industry

- Deep knowledge of course-specific applications and industry practices

- Ph.D. or M.S.

- Strong communication and analytical skills

Preferred:

- Previous teaching experience or experience delivering professional training

- Familiarity with online instructional tools and platforms

General Responsibilities

- Design a syllabus following program chair guidance and the syllabus template

- Create content aligned with course outcomes, integrating personal expertise

- Facilitate online discussions and provide timely, relevant feedback

- Maintain the course site and update content in the Moodle LMS

- Introduce frameworks for life cycle assessment (LCA) and sustainability metrics.

- Guide students in evaluating case studies of green innovation in industrial biotechnology.

General Skill Requirements

- Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to foster student engagement

- Written communication skills, especially for online learning

- Ability to manage time effectively and respond promptly to students

- Familiarity with sustainable development goals and environmental impact analysis tools.

About the Master of Science in Applied Biotechnology & Enterprise

This program prepares students to innovate and lead in the fast-paced biotech industry, integrating scientific knowledge with business strategy. Students learn through project-based, real-world applications.

All GPS courses are 8-weeks long and taught asynchronously online.

About GPS Faculty

GPS Faculty are active industry professionals who teach part-time, online. Our instructors hold at least a master's degree, and many have terminal degrees and professional certifications. Previous teaching experience is not required; GPS provides full training.

Application Process: Interested candidates should submit:

A cover letter highlighting relevant qualifications and teaching experience.

A current CV or resume.

Contact information for three professional references.

(Optional) Examples of teaching materials or professional publications related to leadership and industry innovation.

This appointment is to a position that is in a collective bargaining unit represented by SEIU Local 509.

The compensation for this position is $6241.20.

Pay Range Disclosure

The University's pay ranges represent a good faith estimate of what Brandeis reasonably expects to pay for a position at the time of posting. The pay offered to a selected candidate during hiring will be based on factors such as (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilities of the position, the candidate's work experience and education/training, internal peer equity, and applicable legal requirements.

Equal Opportunity Statement

Brandeis University is an equal opportunity employer which does not discriminate against any applicant or employee on the basis of race, color, ancestry, religious creed, gender identity and expression, national or ethnic origin, sex, sexual orientation, pregnancy, age, genetic information, disability, caste, military or veteran status or any other category protected by law (also known as membership in a "protected class").

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