Youth Aid

Job Description and Duties
Are you a STEM student looking to take your studies out of the classroom and into the field? We are seeking curious, tech-savvy individuals who are passionate about math, science, and the great outdoors to join our team. In this unique role, you won't just be studying theory; you will be actively operating advanced equipment across three different environments—flying drones through the sky, navigating the water’s surface, and deploying technology deep beneath the waves. This is a rare opportunity to gain hands-on experience with cutting-edge robotics and data collection tools while contributing to meaningful land surveying work.

We understand that a student’s schedule is ever-changing, which is why this position offers incredible flexibility. Whether you are looking for inspiring full-time work during the summer months or a part-time, intermittent role that fits between your classes during the school year, we can accommodate your needs for up to 1,500 hours per 12 consecutive months.

While the official job classification is listed as "Youth Aid," please note that this position is open to applicants of all ages, provided you are currently enrolled in at least nine units of schooling. If you are ready to build a standout resume and work in an environment where no two days are the same, we encourage you to apply today.

Duties:
Under the close supervision of a Senior Land Surveyor, the Youth Aide will assist and perform a wide variety of entry level field and office land surveying duties for the Division of Engineering, Geomatics Branch, as part of a planned training program. This position requires a strong mathematical background, ability to perform field activities, and computer skills. The incumbent is required to work cooperatively with others, including the public, and maintain consistent, regular, and punctual attendance.

Department Information
Department of Water Resources (DWR) was established in 1956 by the California State Legislature. We manage California’s water resources, systems, and infrastructure, including the State Water Project, in a responsible sustainable way.

At DWR, we are embedding climate change response into every project we undertake. We have set standards to help evaluate how each project incorporates climate resilience principles and ensure consistency across the Department. Our mission is to sustainably manage the water resources of California, in cooperation with other agencies, to benefit the state’s people and protect, restore, and enhance the natural and human environments.

DWR also strives to create a trusting and welcoming workplace where employees embrace diverse viewpoints and treat each other with civility and respect. An important component of DWR’s equal employment opportunity program centers around justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion.

Special Requirements:
All applicants for Youth Aid positions must meet the following departmental eligibility requirements:

• Enrolled full-time in high school or in nine (9) semester/eight (8) quarter units for undergraduate students or six (6) semester/four (4) quarter units for graduate students.
• Achieved a 2.0 grade point average in the most recently completed academic term.
• If Applicant is under 18 years of age, must possess an appropriate work permit required by the California State Education Code.

Youth Aids must be enrolled in at least 9 units to be hired/continue employment. Unofficial Transcripts must be submitted with application; additionally, official transcript will be required if offered the position. This position cannot work over 1500 hours in 12 consecutive months.

Must possess a valid California driver's license when conducting State business that requires driving a vehicle. May be required to travel on public roadways including traveling to remote areas. Travel on short notice and overnight lodging will be required on some trips.

Benefits
Personal Leave Program 2025: Effective July 1, 2025, state employees are subject to temporary wage reductions in exchange for Personal Leave Program (PLP) accruals. The specific rate and hours earned were negotiated and agreed upon by each bargaining unit. The actual monetary impact of these temporary reductions can vary based on your bargaining unit and/or federal and state tax withholdings. For additional information please visit Human Resources Manual - CalHR

Equal Opportunity Employer
The State of California is an equal opportunity employer to all, regardless of age, ancestry, color, disability (mental and physical), exercising the right to family care and medical leave, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, marital status, medical condition, military or veteran status, national origin, political affiliation, race, religious creed, sex (includes pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding and related medical conditions), and sexual orientation.

It is an objective of the State of California to achieve a drug-free work place. Any applicant for state employment will be expected to behave in accordance with this objective because the use of illegal drugs is inconsistent with the law of the State, the rules governing Civil Service, and the special trust placed in public servants.