CDPH - Technical/General Supervisor Section Chief - Research Scientist Supervisor II (Chemical Sciences)

California Department of Public Health

Job Title: Technical/General Supervisor Section Chief - Research Scientist Supervisor II (Chemical Sciences)

Work Location: Contra Costa County

Job Code: JC-491564

Application deadline: 9/30/2025

The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) is currently hiring for a Research Scientist Supervisor II (Chemical Sciences) within our Center for Family Health’s Genetic Diseases Screening Prevention Program. In this role, you will serve as the Technical/General Supervisor Section Chief, providing leadership and direct supervision over the Technical/General Supervisor Section of the Laboratory Services Branch (LSB), whose function is to perform newborn screening of various birth defects and quality assurance to ensure Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA) compliance requirements in this area.

The Genetic Disease Screening Program (GDSP) of the California Department of Public Health works to protect and improve the health of all Californians. We run the largest screening program in the world and set the standard in delivering high-quality, cost-effective genetic services to all Californians. The mission of GDSP is “to serve the people of California by reducing the emotional and financial burden of disability and death caused by genetic and congenital disorders.

Possession of a Valid California Medical License (or Active Candidate Status) in Clinical Biochemical Genetics is Required at the time of appointment.

The deadline to apply is September 30th, 2025, at 11:59PM PT. Please reach out to Apply@cdph.ca.gov with any questions.

Responsibilities:

• Provides oversight of a diverse team of scientific and technical clinical laboratory staff in the Technical/General Supervisor Section. Assists the LSB Chief by offering leadership and guidance through subordinate supervisors in planning, developing, and implementing performance standards for genetic disease testing and control. Collaborates with stakeholders from state-contracted laboratories on program operations related to genetic disease screening.

• Coordinates with the LSB and CLIA-approved NAPS laboratories to support follow-up activities for the Genetic Disease Screening Program (GDSP). Works closely with other GDSP sections, Statewide Area Genetic Centers, the public, and various stakeholders to provide expert consultation in the development and revision of regulations related to genetic disease testing. Participates in and leads the development of proposed scientific research to enhance genetic screening outcomes.

• Provides administrative leadership in planning, organizing, and implementing complex new scientific methods and techniques in biochemical and molecular biology to develop new screening tests or improve existing ones in accordance with appropriate federal and state requirements.

• Oversee and evaluate performance metrics established by applicable regulatory agencies to ensure LSB and contracted laboratories comply with guidelines for newborn genetic disease testing in California. Initiates corrective actions and contingency plans as needed to maintain continuous and effective testing. Resolves operational challenges within the Section, including issues related to reagent supply, equipment, logistics, and temporary staffing shortages.

  
  

• Serves as a CLIA Clinical Consultant under the delegated authority of a CLIA Laboratory Director for the Newborn Screening and PNS Programs. Provides clinical guidance to laboratory clients, ensuring compliance with CLIA regulations and supporting the accurate and timely detection of genetic, metabolic, and congenital disorders in newborns.

  
  

• Carries out routine supervisory and administrative duties, including hiring, timekeeping, probationary evaluations, and annual performance reviews for staff.

  
  

• Supervises various workshops and training as needed. Performs other work-related duties as required.

At 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.

New to State Service? The following steps will navigate you through the application process:

1. Create a CalCareer account by going to https://calcareers.ca.gov/CalHRPublic/Login.aspx.

2. Confirm that you meet the minimum qualifications for the position you are wanting to apply for. A link to view minimum qualifications is listed on each job posting.

3. After confirming that you meet the minimum qualifications, take, and pass the corresponding examination. Most exams are available online and can be found on CalCareers under the Exam/Assessment Search tab. Please note, while candidates are welcome to apply to positions without taking the examination, candidates must pass the examination prior to appointment. Please review the minimum qualifications thoroughly, prior to beginning the examination.

4. Apply! Follow all directions and be sure to submit all requested documentation.

For more details on how to apply click here - Technical/General Supervisor Section Chief - Research Scientist Supervisor II (Chemical Sciences)