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Trainee Geologist Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Trainee Geologist information

See California salary details

$35.5K

$76K

$122.9K

How much do trainee geologist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for trainee geologist in California is $76,022.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $55,300.00 and $91,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a trainee geologist?

A Trainee Geologist is an entry-level role where individuals gain hands-on experience in studying the Earth's structure, materials, and processes. They assist senior geologists in fieldwork, data collection, sample analysis, and report preparation. This role is common in industries like mining, environmental consulting, and oil and gas exploration. Trainees typically hold a degree in geology or a related field and develop essential skills in geological mapping, software tools, and laboratory techniques.

What type of fieldwork and office work can I expect as a trainee geologist?

As a Trainee Geologist, you'll likely split your time between fieldwork—collecting soil, rock, or core samples, conducting site surveys, and mapping geological features—and office work, such as analyzing samples, preparing reports, and working with geographic information systems (GIS) or other software. Fieldwork often involves traveling to various sites, sometimes in remote or challenging environments, and adhering strictly to safety protocols. In the office, you'll collaborate closely with senior geologists and other team members, contributing to project planning, data interpretation, and presentations. This balanced mix of hands-on, technical, and collaborative tasks offers a broad learning experience and prepares you for advancement in the field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the trainee geologist position, and why are they important?

To excel as a Trainee Geologist, you typically need a bachelor's degree in geology or a related earth science field and a solid grasp of geological principles, mapping, and sample analysis. Familiarity with GIS software, geological modeling tools, and laboratory analysis equipment is often required, and safety certifications like HAZWOPER can be valuable depending on the industry. Strong observational skills, effective communication, and the ability to work collaboratively in field teams are essential soft skills. These competencies ensure accurate data collection, adherence to safety standards, and effective contribution to geological projects.

How much does a trainee geologist make?

A trainee geologist typically earns between $40,000 and $55,000 annually, depending on location, industry, and level of education. Entry-level positions may start lower, but with experience and certifications, salaries can increase. The role often involves fieldwork and data analysis using geological tools and software.

Is there a high demand for trainee geologists?

The demand for trainee geologists is generally steady, especially in industries such as oil and gas, environmental consulting, and mining, where geological expertise is essential. Entry-level positions often require relevant fieldwork skills and certifications, and employment opportunities can vary based on industry activity and regional economic conditions.

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

The most popular types of Geologist jobs in California are:

Infographic showing various Trainee Geologist job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, and 6% Part Time. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $76,022 per year, or $36.5 per hour.

Environmental Health Specialist Trainee

San Bernardino County

San Bernardino, CA • On-site

$62K - $81K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 17 days ago


San Bernardino County rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 79 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

485th of 848 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

The Job Learn How to Become Registered As An Environmental Health Specialist The Public Health Department is recruiting for Environmental Health Specialist (EHS) Trainees who, under training conditions, perform health inspections in a specialized program such as Food Protection, Recreational Health, and Insect and Rodent Vector Control. Duties include: inspecting properties and establishments for compliance with environmental health laws and regulations; investigating citizens' compliance; issuing correction notices; monitoring corrective or cleanup activities; assisting in preparation of legal actions and prosecuting offenders of environmental health laws; and assisting with community disease and environmental control programs. Positions may be assigned to district offices located in San Bernardino, Hesperia, or Rancho Cucamonga.

For more detailed information, refer to the Environmental Health Specialist Trainee job description. Human Resources is also accepting applications for Environmental Health Specialist I and Environmental Health Specialist II, which all require a separate application. It is to your advantage to review the requirements of all levels and apply as appropriate.

EXCELLENT BENEFITS To review job-specific benefits, refer to: Summary of Benefits and the Memoranda of Understanding (MOU) CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT Work Schedule: May be required to work some evenings, weekends, and on-call. Physical: May be required to bend, stoop, kneel, crawl, or hike when necessary during the investigation process. Travel/License: A valid California Class C Driver License is required to carry out the essential job-related functions of this position.

Mileage reimbursement and proof of automobile liability insurance must be maintained. Pre-Employment Process: Prior to appointment, applicants must pass a background investigation which includes verification of employment history and education, fingerprinting, physical exam, and drug screening. Sponsorship: Please note San Bernardino County is not able to consider candidates who will require visa sponsorship at the time of application or in the future.

Promotion: Trainees must obtain a valid registration as an Environmental Health Specialist (REHS) within 36 months of hire or employment will be terminated. Trainees are eligible to promote to EHS I after completion of the training program, receipt of a satisfactory work progress report, and obtaining certification as an REHS from the State of California Department of Public Health (CDPH)*. Trainee period: Trainees must obtain a valid registration as a Registered Environmental Health Specialist (REHS) within 36 months of hire or employment will be terminated.

The 36 month period allotted to obtain a registration as a REHS includes any time employed as an Environmental Health Specialist (EHS) trainee in other jurisdictions. Applicants who have previously worked as a EHS trainee and have been unsuccessful in obtaining registration as an REHS from the State of California Department of Public Health within 36 moths of original hire are not eligible to work under trainee conditions and must successfully pass examination prior to employment as an EHS I. EHS Trainee applicants who are nearing or have been unsuccessful in obtaining registration as an REHS within a 36 months training period with another jurisdiction may have their application denied and will not move forward in the recruitment process.

Minimum Requirements Applicants must meet both the education and letter of eligibility requirements: Education: A Bachelor's degree (or higher) in Biology, Microbiology, Chemistry, Biochemistry, Ecology, Entomology, Geology, Hydrology, Climatology, Environmental Science (i.e., Food Science, Water Quality/Hydrology, etc.), or other related natural sciences. -AND- Letter of Eligibility: Must possess a valid "Letter of Eligibility" issued from the CDPH, which affirms the applicant's eligibility to work as an EHS Trainee. A legible copy of the "Letter of Eligibility" from the CDPH affirming eligibility MUST be submitted with the application by the filing deadline

You may attach an electronic copy to your online application -OR- email an electronic copy to employment@hr.sbcounty.gov with the Subject Line: EHS Trainee/Letter of Eligibility Attachment. For more information on how to obtain the "Letter of Eligibility", visit the California Department of Public Health, Registered Environmental Health Specialist Program website. For inquiries about the REHS Program contact: Department of Public Health Environmental Health Specialist Registration Program MS7404, IMS K-2 P.O

Box 997377 Sacramento, CA 95899-7377 Phone: (916) 449-5662; Email: REHSprog@cdph.ca.gov Selection Process There will be a competitive evaluation of qualifications based on a review of the application and supplemental questionnaire. It is to your advantage to be explicit in your responses on the application and supplemental questionnaire. Application Procedure: Applications will be accepted continuously and reviewed periodically

Interested applicants are encouraged to apply as soon as possible as this recruitment may close at any time. Resumes will not be accepted in lieu of the application and/or supplemental questionnaire. To ensure timely and successful submission of your online application, please allow ample time to complete and submit your application before the filing deadline.

Applicants will be automatically logged-out if they have not submitted the application and all required materials prior to the posted deadline. Once your application has been successfully submitted you will receive an onscreen confirmation and an email. We recommend that you save and/or print these for your records.

Please note: if you do not receive an onscreen confirmation and an email acknowledging our receipt of your application, we have not received your application. If you need technical assistance, follow this link to review the Government Jobs online application guide or contact their Toll-Free Applicant Support line at (855) 524-5627. Please note that Human Resources is not responsible for any issues or delays caused by your internet connection, computer, or browser when submitting an application.

Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) / Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA): San Bernardino County is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) and Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) compliant employer, dedicated to ensuring equal employment opportunities for all employees and applicants. ADA Accommodation: If you have a disability and need accommodations during the testing process, please submit the Special Testing Accommodations Request Form (Download PDF) within one week of the recruitment filing deadline. Veterans' Preference: Eligible veterans and their spouses or widows/widowers who are not current County employees may receive additional Veterans' Preference points.

For details and instructions on how to request these points, please refer to the Veterans' Preference Policy. For more important details, review the Applicant Information and County Employment Process.


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