Environmental Scientist (JC-524146)

At Caltrans, we foster a supportive environment that encourages open communication and mutual respect, empowering you to bring your best ideas forward. Our commitment to work-life balance ensures you have time to recharge and pursue personal passions, while our dedication to job security guarantees a stable and fulfilling career.

About the Role

The Environmental Scientist will be a key member of the Division of Environmental Planning and Engineering at Caltrans District 5 San Luis Obispo, CA. The incumbent will be an environmental team lead on Project Development Teams for the delivery of transportation projects throughout the San Luis Obispo Area. The Environmental Scientist will be critical in identifying and furthering ways to avoid and minimize environmental impacts and contribute to enhancements within the State Highway System. Under the direction of a Senior Environmental Planner, the Environmental Scientist plans and executes the complex environmental studies required to facilitate project delivery. The incumbent will gather, research, and analyze social, natural, and environmental data for preparation, review, and processing of environmental documents considering the impacts of transportation projects as mandated by federal and state laws, regulations, policies, and procedures. Occasional overtime, travel and overnight stays may be required. Possession of a valid driver’s license is required when operating a State owned or leased vehicle.

Responsibilities

• Identify and further ways to avoid and minimize environmental impacts
• Contribute to enhancements within the State Highway System
• Plan and execute complex environmental studies required to facilitate project delivery
• Gather, research, and analyze social, natural, and environmental data for environmental document preparation, review, and processing
• Consider the impacts of transportation projects as mandated by federal and state laws, regulations, policies, and procedures
• Occasional overtime, travel and overnight stays may be required

Requirements

• Possession of a valid driver’s license

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Environmental Science, Biology, Geology, or related field
• Minimum of 3 years of relevant experience in environmental science or related field
• Knowledge of environmental laws, regulations, and policies
• Ability to gather, research, and analyze social, natural, and environmental data
• Strong communication and teamwork skills

Skills

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite
• Experience with GIS software
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills

Benefits

• Flexible work schedule
• Work-life balance
• Job security

Pay

$53,016.00 - $111,852.00 annually

Schedule

Full-time position

To apply, please visit the external link on CalCareers and submit your application by July 30, 2026.

Contact: Stephanie Smith
(805) 305-4803
stephanie.smith@dot.ca.gov