How to Become a Environmental Engineers in California
Environmental Engineers in California earn a median salary of $127,660/year, which is 23% above the national average. California has a state income tax of ~6.3%. After taxes and rent, a environmental engineers takes home approximately $6,088/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a environmental engineers can afford in California
Becoming a environmental engineers in California
Meet education requirements
Environmental Engineers positions in California typically require Bachelor's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across California. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many environmental engineers positions in California require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain California licensure or certification
California may require specific licensing or professional certification for environmental engineerss. Requirements vary by state — contact the California Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in California
California employs 4,770 environmental engineers. The highest concentrations are in San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont and Redding.
Environmental Engineers salary by metro area in California
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont | $142K | $68.27/hr | 580 |
| Redding | $138K | $66.25/hr | 40 |
| Oxnard-Thousand Oaks-Ventura | $135K | $64.76/hr | 90 |
| Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom | $131K | $62.9/hr | 1,200 |
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara | $130K | $62.63/hr | 180 |
| San Luis Obispo-Paso Robles | $127K | $60.99/hr | 50 |
| San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad | $126K | $60.53/hr | 460 |
| Salinas | $124K | $59.7/hr | 30 |
| Santa Rosa-Petaluma | $124K | $59.6/hr | 80 |
| Santa Maria-Santa Barbara | $120K | $57.83/hr | 50 |
| Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim | $120K | $57.59/hr | 1,270 |
| Fresno | $119K | $57.1/hr | 120 |
| Bakersfield-Delano | $119K | $57/hr | 60 |
| Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario | $110K | $52.8/hr | 240 |
| Santa Cruz-Watsonville | $107K | $51.33/hr | 40 |
Environmental Engineers salary range in California
Environmental Engineers careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a environmental engineers make in California?▼
The median environmental engineers salary in California is $127,660 per year ($61.37/hr). This is 23% above the national median of $104,170. Salaries range from $81,520 to $172,480.
What are the requirements to become a environmental engineers in California?▼
Environmental Engineers positions in California typically require Bachelor's degree. California may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the California licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a environmental engineers afford to live in California?▼
At the median salary of $127,660, a environmental engineers in California would take home approximately $7,500/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 18.8% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for environmental engineers in California?▼
The highest paying metro areas for environmental engineers in California are San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont ($142,000), Redding ($137,810), Oxnard-Thousand Oaks-Ventura ($134,700). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does California have state income tax for environmental engineers?▼
Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 6.3%. On a $127,660 salary, this means roughly $8,010/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.