The Food and Drug Branch’s mission is to protect and improve the health of all California residents by assuring that food, drugs, and medical devices are safe and not adulterated, misbranded nor falsely advertised, and that drugs and medical devices are effective.

The Environmental Scientist (ES) is responsible for conducting technical inspections of food processing and distribution facilities to evaluate compliance with applicable food safety laws and regulations; documentation of violations; collection of evidence; review, evaluation, and monitoring of firm’s corrective actions; initiation of enforcement action, as assigned; completion of inspection reports and enforcement forms; and collection of samples. Deployment to inspection sites anywhere within California on short notice, overnight stays for extended periods, travel for extended lengths of time transporting or moving items (weighing up to 50 pounds) climbing stairs and ladders; working in extreme temperatures and moving on hazardous surfaces; transporting inspection and safety equipment, sample containers, and records.

The ES is an entry, intermediate working, and journey level of the series.

At Range A, the candidate, under close supervision, performs a variety of the less difficult and responsible professional scientific office and field work. Work at this level is characterized by a reliance on detailed instructions and assistance from lead persons and supervisors in the application of proven techniques and methodologies to assigned work.

At Range B, the candidate, under general supervision, performs a variety of responsible professional scientific office and field work. Work at this level is characterized by a reliance on proven techniques and methodologies.

At Range C, the candidate, under direction, independently performs a variety of responsible professional scientific office and field work. Work at this level is characterized by independent development and use of techniques and methodologies. The incumbent may also be assigned lead responsibility for a specific project.

Minimum Requirements

You will find the Minimum Requirements in the Class Specification.

• ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENTIST

Desirable Qualifications

In addition to evaluating each candidate's relative ability, as demonstrated by quality and breadth of experience, the following factors will provide the basis for competitively evaluating each candidate:

• Experience conducting inspections.

• Evaluating compliance with laws/regulations.

• Writing accurate and descriptive reports.

• Collecting samples and maintaining chain of custody.

• Clearly describing observed violations orally and in writing.

• Ability to communicate clearly with a wide range of people.

• Ability to obtain and maintain a commission from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

• Ability to use Microsoft Office software and inspection-related equipment (camera, thermometer, pH meter, etc.).

• Knowledge of food safety principles; general scientific principles (microbiology and chemistry) and inspection technique.

How To Apply

Complete Application Packages (including your Examination/Employment Application (STD 678) and applicable or required documents) must be submitted to apply for this Job Posting. Application Packages may be submitted electronically through your CalCareer Account at www.CalCareers.ca.gov. When submitting your application in hard copy, a completed copy of the Application Package listing must be included.

https://calcareers.ca.gov/CalHrPublic/Jobs/JobPosting.aspx?JobControlId=476174

At the California Department of Public Health (CDPH), equity, diversity, and inclusion are at the core of our mission to advance the health and well-being of California’s diverse people and communities. We are genuinely and strongly committed to cultivating and preserving a culture of inclusion and connectedness where we can grow and learn together with a diverse team of employees. In recruiting for team members, we welcome the unique contributions that you can bring to us and the work we do.

About California Department of Public Health

At the California Department of Public Health (CDPH), equity, diversity, and inclusion are at the core of our mission to advance the health and well-being of California’s diverse people and communities. We are genuinely and strongly committed to cultivating and preserving a culture of inclusion and connectedness where we can grow and learn together with a diverse team of employees. In recruiting for team members, we welcome the unique contributions that you can bring to us and the work we do.The Human Resources Division (HRD) partners with CDPH’s programs and management to provide guidance and consultative services on HR matters that are necessary for the Department to carry out its mission to deliver quality public health services.

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