Role overview
This position supports the California Department of Public Health’s (CDPH) mission and strategic plan by enhancing emergency preparedness and response goals for natural disasters and hazardous materials releases, with a particular emphasis on issues related to environmental exposures and health implications.
The incumbent works under the general supervision of the Research Scientist Supervisor I of the Environmental & Occupational Emergency Preparedness Team. As a member of the team, the Research Scientist will conduct community vulnerability assessments and outreach activities to identify and reduce risks from chemical releases and other hazards in California in order to minimize health impacts on communities and vulnerable populations, workers, and first responders. The position requires a close working relationship with team members, stakeholders and other state, local and federal governmental partners. The incumbent serves an integral role in a multidisciplinary team to develop capacity to respond to non-infectious disease emergencies.
Environmental and Occupational Duty Officer Program : Participation in the Duty Officer Program is an essential function of this position. You can expect to spend approximately 10% of your work year performing Duty Officer responsibilities.
- Average Duty Officer Shift is eight weeks per year.
The Duty Officer receives environmental or occupational incident notifications 24/7 and provides technical assistance as necessary.
What we're looking for
In addition to a resume, please provide a one to two page in length Statement of Qualifications that describes your training, skills, and experience as they relate to the duties of the position found in the duty statement.
This position may be eligible for telework. The amount of telework permitted is at the discretion of the Department and is subject to change, consistent with CDPH’s Telework Program. All employees who telework are required to be California residents in accordance with Government Code 14200. Candidates who reside outside of the state of California may be interviewed; however, the selected candidate must have a primary residency in the state of California prior to appointment (and continue to maintain California residency) as a condition of employment. Failure to meet this requirement may result in the job offer being rescinded.
Travel may be required for this position. Reimbursement for travel takes into consideration an employee’s designated headquarters, as reflected in the duty statement, and is subject to regulations and bargaining unit contract provisions. All commute expenses to the designated headquarters office will be the responsibility of the selected candidate.
*Final Filing Date: 3/31/2026
Position Details
Job Code #: JC-508465
Position #(s): 580-353-5582-001
Working Title: Environmental Hazards Preparedness Scientist
Classification: RESEARCH SCIENTIST $6,942.00 - $9,799.00
A: $6,942.00 - $8,922.00
B: $7,625.00 - $9,799.00
Work Location: Contra Costa County
Telework: Hybrid
Job Type: Permanent, Full Time**
Should you have any questions regarding the application process, our Recruitment Team is ready to help you at [email protected] or (916) 445-0983.