Principal Scientist I

West Yost

Principal Scientist I managing complex scientific projects focused on surface water and groundwater resources. Leading project teams and business development initiatives at West Yost.

Posted 7/27/2026full-timeDavis • California • 🇺🇸 United StatesLead💰 $131,397 - $205,210 per yearWebsite

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Manage or Lead multiple complex projects requiring innovative investigation techniques
Prepare complex technical reports
Perform QA/QC of technical investigations performed by others
Develop business opportunities with existing clients and maintain client relationships
Supervise team that performs field data collection and sampling programs that support scientific investigation
Provide technical direction and training to less experienced professional staff
Manage up to 8 direct reports

Requirements

What you’ll need

Bachelor degree in Geology, Hydrogeology or Environmental Science
15+ years professional experience working in a related technical field
Excellent oral and written communication skills
Experienced project manager with ability to manage combined budget of $1M or higher
Knowledgeable in CA law and policy related to groundwater management
Prior experience managing at least 3 direct reports
Master’s degree in Geology, Hydrogeology, or Environmental Science (preferred)
10+ years engineering consulting experience (preferred)
Expertise in CA law and policy related to groundwater management (preferred)
Leadership training (preferred)

Benefits

Comp & perks

medical
dental
vision
flexible spending accounts
health saving accounts (with West Yost contribution)
paid vacation
paid sick leave and holidays
two employee assistance programs
travel assistance program
401(k) profit sharing with employer match
leaves of absence with additional supplemental paid time off
parental leave
life and AD&D insurance
short-term and long-term disability insurance
pet insurance
support in on-going education through our 529 college savings plan/student loan repayment program
tuition reimbursement
paid professional memberships
paid training
Leadership Academy programs
milestone anniversary benefits
peer to peer recognition programs
potential for employee stock ownership
annual monetary and paid time off bonuses
performance-based bonus eligibility
merit increase eligibility
employee referral bonuses
wellness reimbursement