Water Quality Field Technician (Part- Time On Call)

Position: On call Water Quality Field Technician (Hourly, Non-Exempt)

Who We Are

MLJ Environmental is a small consulting firm based in Sacramento, California, with over 25 years of experience safeguarding communities and natural resources. We simplify regulatory compliance with innovative approaches to science and data. Our staff are innovative problem solvers who thrive on new challenges.

MLJ Environmental is seeking a motivated Field Technician to join our team on an on-call basis to support projects requiring time-sensitive stormwater monitoring efforts. This is a part-time, on-call position with variable hours. Work is scheduled only when storm events occur. Although we aim to provide as much advance notice as possible, candidates must be prepared to accept assignments on short notice (24–48 hours) and work shifts that may include weekdays, weekends and/or holidays, depending on weather conditions.

In this role, you’ll assist with the logistics and collection of water and sediment samples. Staff report for work to our equipment warehouse in Sacramento, CA and travel in company vehicles to locations throughout the northern Central Valley. Please note that we are a dog-friendly office.

Schedule and Salary

The Field Technician position is non-exempt, with variable hours (0 to 30 hours each month) depending on need, weather conditions, and project schedules. Paid training will be provided prior to the first scheduled monitoring event. Pay is $19.00-$25.00 per hour.

Responsibilities

• Assist in the preparation and organization of sampling supplies.
• Clean, calibrate, and maintain field sampling equipment.
• Clean and organize sampling warehouse and vehicles.
• Collect water and sediment samples following standard operating procedures (SOPs).
• Ensure samples are delivered to the appropriate laboratories in a timely manner.
• Ability to carry equipment weighing 30 to 50 pounds over uneven terrain, wear personal protective gear, and work in outdoor environments year-round.
• Ability to operate company vehicles

Field sampling may involve 8-12 hour days in challenging weather conditions, including wind, rain, and cold temperatures and requires work in, over, and around water.

Qualifications

We are seeking candidates with strong critical thinking, communication, and teamwork skills. The ideal candidate will be self-motivated, detail-oriented, safety-conscious, and able to work in small groups for extended periods of time. A valid California driver’s license and a good driving record are required.

Other beneficial skills include:

• Experience collecting surface water samples.
• Familiarity with multi-parameter meters and stream flow measurement.
• Experience with database entry.
• Knowledge of California water quality issues.
• Knowledge of California water quality regulations.

To Apply

Please send your 1) resume, and 2) contact information for three references to Trisha Turner (tturner@mljenvironmental.com). In your email, please reference where you learned about this position. Applications missing any of the required information may not be considered. Application review begins on September 26, 2025, and will continue until the position is filled.

Job Type: Part-time

Pay: $19.00 - $25.00 per hour

Work Location: In person