CDPH - Viral Pathogens Supervisor (PUBLIC HEALTH MICROBIOLOGIST SUPERVISOR)
California Department of Public Health
Job Title: Viral Pathogens Supervisor
Work Location: Contra Costa County
Job Code: JC-532481
Application deadline: 10/08/2026
The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) Viral Rickettsial Disease Laboratory (VRDL) is hiring a Unit Supervisor within the Respiratory and Gastroenteric Diseases Section. Duties include providing day-to-day administrative guidance and direction to subordinates. This includes planning, organizing, and directing tasks related to the current scientific studies or public health investigations (diagnostic or surveillance) of broad scientific scope and complexity. This person will be expected to make independent decisions and serve as a consultant to other lower-level scientists conducting studies in the field of respiratory and gastroenteric diseases. The administrative duties of the supervisor will include budgeting and program planning for scientific research projects and investigations, recruitment, training, and supervising appropriate research personnel and other lower-level staff.
Special Requirements:
Possession of a California Public Health Microbiologist Certification required.
Responsibilities:
Oversee and direct molecular and serological testing for viruses in accordance with CLIA regulations. Review all results and direct further testing as necessary. Review and supervise quality control procedures and practices in Section, including standardization of reagents, test controls, and quality assurance methods. Provide oversight of the proficiency testing (PT) program for the Section in accordance with CLIA regulations.
Assign work priorities and duties to personnel in the Section. Assume responsibility for quality and quantity of work output for Section. Provide training and guidance of personnel in diagnostic procedures. Evaluate personnel and complete performance evaluations and probation reports. Oversee adherence to laboratory safety procedures.
Provide technical leadership, specialized skills, training and guidance of microbiologists and other laboratory staff in the performance of complex and standard assays for the characterization of human viral and rickettsial pathogens. Develop and perform complex serologic and molecular tests. Provide guidance and direction of complex public health investigations.
Provide technical assistance, training, and support to local public health laboratories. Organize and conduct training classes and workshops in virology methods and procedures. Review current scientific literature and participate in conferences to keep informed of technological and diagnostic advances in virology. Write technical protocols and reports and collaborate in preparation of manuscripts for publication.
Perform other administrative duties as required.
The deadline to apply is October 8th, 2026.
State Application Process:
Create a CalCareer account by going to https://calcareers.ca.gov/CalHRPublic/Login.aspx.
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.
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.
Apply! Follow all directions and be sure to submit all requested documentation.
For more details on how to apply click here - Viral Pathogens Supervisor
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