RESEARCH SCIENTIST SUPERVISOR II JC-536611

California Department of Public Health; California; Hybrid; USD 130,000 - 168,000; Full time

Job summary

The California Department of Public Health is seeking a Molecular Immuno-Serology Section Chief (Microbiologist) to lead the Molecular Immuno-Serology Section within the VRDL. This position provides administrative guidance and directs high-impact scientific research and public health investigations at a statewide level.

The role is based in Contra Costa County with hybrid telework options and permanent, full-time status, offering a mission-driven environment focused on viral diagnostics,

Qualifications

• Administrative leadership of the Molecular Immuno-Serology Section.
• Directs and plans high-impact scientific research and public health investigations across California.
• Supervises viral diagnostics and surveillance testing in public health programs.

Responsibilities

• Oversees the Molecular Immuno-Serology Section operations and research projects.
• Provides administrative guidance and leadership for planning, organizing, and directing complex studies with statewide impact.
• Supervises public health investigations related to viral diagnostics and surveillance testing.

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.

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 Viral and Rickettsial Disease Laboratory Program (VRDL) is one of the longest-standing and largest state public health virology laboratories in the United States, As a CLIA-certified state public health laboratory performing high-complexity testing, the VRDL serves as the reference laboratory for local public health laboratories and other clients, provides primary testing for jurisdictions without their own laboratory capability, and conducts research to advance public health diagnostics and science. The VRDL also functions as an advanced reference laboratory within the federal Laboratory Response Network and coordinates several statewide laboratory testing networks, including the Respiratory Laboratory Network and the Measles Laboratory Network. In support of statewide public health, the VRDL provides laboratory testing, technical consultation, training and assistance, and conducts research essential for diagnosis, investigation, surveillance, and control of viral and rickettsial diseases of public health importance. “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 providing supervision of the Molecular Immuno-Serology Section. The incumbent provides administrative guidance and leadership in planning, organizing, and directing difficult and complex major original scientific research studies or public health investigations that have broad statewide scientific scope, high sensitivity, and policy impact in the area of viral diagnostic and surveillance testing. The incumbent works under the direction of the Branch Chief (Research Scientist Manager) of the Viral and Rickettsial Disease Laboratory (VRDL) Branch.

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

Final Filing Date: 11/6/2026

Position Details

Job Code #: JC-536611

Position #(s): 580-732-5651-003

Working Title: Molecular Immuno-Serology Section Chief (Microbiologist)

Classification: RESEARCH SCIENTIST SUPERVISOR II

Salary: $11,655.00 - $15,017.00

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: Contra Costa County

Telework: Hybrid

Job Type: Permanent, Full Time