Graduate Student Assistant

Graduate Student Assistant – Department of Water Resources

Location:

Sacramento County, CA
Salary: $18.27 - $28.16 per hour (New to State candidates receive the minimum classification rate)
Work Type:
Student Assistant (Hybrid telework available)
Number of Positions: 1
Final date to receive applications: 3/27/2026

We are seeking a graduate student in geology, engineering geology, geophysics, hydrogeology, water resource engineering, data science, or a closely related field to support innovative and technical basin characterization projects. The successful candidate will work on California’s climate and water resiliency initiatives, including the Sustainable Groundwater Management Act (SGMA), California’s Groundwater – Bulletin 118, and Basin Characterization projects. Duties include groundwater data analysis, management, advanced visualization, and collaboration with interdisciplinary teams.

• Enrolled in at least 6 semester units (or 4 quarter units) for graduate students.
• Minimum 2.0 GPA in the most recent academic term.
• Declared major related to the duties of the position and enrolled in required coursework.
• Strong technical, computational, analytical, and communication skills.
• Self‑driven, creative, and able to work effectively in a team environment.

• Experience in geology, geophysics, water resource engineering, or hydrogeology.
• Knowledge of coding, machine learning, data management, data analysis techniques, and GIS.
• Master’s or PhD focus in Geology, Engineering Geology, Hydrogeology, Geophysics, Water Resources Engineering, Data Science Engineering, or closely related field.
• Ability to maintain consistent work hours (minimum 16 hours/week) and exercise good judgment.

Employees have access to professional training opportunities, wellness gym, career center, flexible time schedules, and telework options. Detailed benefits information is available on the Department of Water Resources website.

The State of California is an equal‑opportunity employer to all, regardless of age, ancestry, color, disability, gender, genetic information, marital status, military status, national origin, political affiliation, race, religious creed, sex, sexual orientation, and other protected categories. The State of California aims to achieve a drug‑free workplace.