RESEARCH SCIENTIST STAFF JC-533423

California Department of Public Health; Sacramento (CA); Hybrid; USD 93,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

The California Department of Public Health is seeking a Substance and Addiction Research Scientist to protect public health, advance data-driven prevention, and support evidence-based policy. This permanent, full-time position is based in Sacramento with hybrid telework.

You will lead epidemiological and formative research projects, apply behavioral science models, analyze data sources, develop indicators, and prepare data briefs and manuscripts for diverse audiences.

Responsibilities

• Lead epidemiological and formative research projects related to substance use and behavioral health.
• Use epidemiological methods to evaluate data sources and develop scientific indicators.
• Prepare reports, dashboards, and manuscripts for dissemination to diverse audiences.

Job description

Department Information

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 Substance and Addiction Prevention Branch (SAPB), within the Center for Healthy Communities, aims to reduce individual, social, and environmental harm from addiction and substance use through research-driven prevention, education, and treatment. SAPB houses CDPH's youth cannabis prevention, alcohol, overdose, and problem gambling programs, creating synergy between substance use and addiction prevention efforts. In addition to efforts related to addiction and substance use, SAPB examines a wide range of societal, community, and social influences on individual consumption and the resulting social and behavioral outcomes.

CDPH’s success arises from the differences in who we are, how we think, and what we experience. It is these differences that best form policies, develop resources, and deliver services to serve California's diverse communities.

CDPH continues to build and strengthen a work culture where all employees are inspired to share their talents and ideas, to become part of a team that works to better serve the needs of California’s diverse communities by delivering innovative solutions and quality resources.

“The salary information listed on this advertisement may not reflect recent salary increases from salary adjustments or changes in the fiscal year.”

“ The CDPH is currently an E-Verify employer. ”

Department Website: https://www.cdph.ca.gov

Job Description And Duties

This position supports the California Department of Public Health’s (CDPH) mission and strategic plan by protecting the public’s health, promoting health and wellness, and optimizing data and technology.

The Research Scientist Staff (RS Staff) works under the general direction of the Research Scientist Supervisor I, Epidemiology and Evaluation Unit, within the Substance and Addiction Prevention Branch (SAPB). The RS Staff leads the development and implementation of epidemiological, formative research, and evaluation projects related to substance use, addiction, and other behavioral health factors. The RS Staff will use behavioral sciences theoretical models and epidemiological research methods to evaluate data sources, develop scientific indicators and tools, conduct scientific studies, oversee the development and implementation of formative research and evaluation plans, conduct analyses, and prepare data webpages, reports, data briefs, and manuscripts for dissemination to diverse audiences. The RS Staff is expected to make independent, complex decisions and is responsible for ensuring the scientific quality of all administrative and research reporting requirements. Minimal travel (3%) is required to participate in local, regional, and national activities. Some overnight stays may be required.

Please let us know how you heard about our position by taking this brief survey:

https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/CDPHRecruitment

You will find additional information about the job in the Duty Statement.

Final Filing Date: 10/9/2026

Position Details

Job Code #: JC-533423

Position #(s): 581-370-5594-909

Working Title: Substance and Addiction Research Scientist

Classification: RESEARCH SCIENTIST STAFF

$8,327.00 - $10,779.00

New to State candidates will be hired into the minimum salary of the classification or minimum of alternate range when applicable.

# of Positions: 1

Work Location: Sacramento County

Telework: Hybrid

Job Type: Permanent, Full Time