Research Scientist Staff

Job Description and Duties

Looking for innovative, impactful work in a fast-evolving industry? The Department of Cannabis Control is seeking a highly skilled, detail-oriented Research Scientist III to lead complex analytical and research studies that support California’s cannabis regulatory framework.

Under the general direction of the Research Scientist (RS) Supervisor I of the Chemical Sciences (CS) Unit II, in the Cannabis Testing Laboratory Office (Office), part of the Laboratory Services Branch, within the Compliance Division (Division), part of the Department of Cannabis Control (Department), the RS Staff will plan, organize, and direct complex scientific research studies. The RS Staff will make independent decisions, serve as an advisor to lower-level scientists, and adapt methods, techniques, and procedures to complete assignments. The RS Staff will manage the specialized phases of major scientific projects, coordinate with other agencies, present scientific research or investigations to public health experts and the community, publish research findings in scientific journals, and perform other related work in an assigned region; however, may be required to conduct business throughout the State of California. The RS Staff will be responsible for planning and conducting complex analytical studies on chemical contamination of cannabis and cannabis products, perform routine research and analysis of cannabis and cannabis products for quantitation, and conduct screening and identification of chemical contaminants for the Office.

What you’ll do:

• Production Testing & Laboratory Analysis

Conduct laboratory testing of cannabis and cannabis products using advanced instrumentation. Report results according to standard procedures, ensure quality assurance/quality control (QA/QC), validate test results, and maintain laboratory records. Troubleshoot instrumentation, manage sample inventories, and uphold laboratory safety and ISO 17025 accreditation.

• Research & Method Development

Develop and validate analytical methods to measure, screen, and identify cannabinoids and toxins, including distinguishing phyto and synthetic/semi-synthetic cannabinoids. Lead and organize high-complexity research projects using state-of-the-art instruments (GC-MS, LC-MS, ICP-MS) to support California testing regulations and Department standards.

• Technical Reporting & Data Review

Prepare laboratory analysis reports, quality control sample reporting, and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). Review data packages of completed testing, transcribe scientific research reports, and prepare findings for scientific conferences and peer-reviewed journals.

• Laboratory Operations & Compliance

Participate in budgetary planning, laboratory network and LIMS method setup, equipment and supply procurement, and maintain ISO documentation. Manage laboratory safety procedures, including chemical and cannabis waste disposal.

• Collaboration & Training

Coordinate laboratory activities with internal scientific and administrative staff. Develop and deliver training on new analytical methods, testing protocols, and quality procedures to enhance technical competency and ensure standardized practices.

You will find additional information about the job in the .

Working Conditions

Candidates who reside outside of the State of California may be admitted to the job interview. However, upon a job offer, candidates must provide proof of residence in California prior to their appointment becoming effective, or the offer may be rescinded.

Special Requirements

Criminal Offender Record Information (CORI) - Title 11, Section 703 (d) of the California Code of Regulations requires criminal record checks of all personnel who have access to CORI. Pursuant to this requirement, applicants for this position will be required to submit fingerprints to the Department of Justice and be cleared before hiring. In accordance with CORI procedures, clearance shall be maintained while employed in a CORI-designated position. Additionally, the position routinely works with sensitive and confidential issues and/or materials and is expected to maintain the privacy and confidentiality of documents and topics pertaining to individuals or to sensitive program matters at all times.

Conflict of Interest (COI) - This position is subject to COI Regulations. The incumbent is required to submit a Statement of Economic Interests (Form 700) within 30 days of assuming office, annually by April 1st, and within 30 days of leaving office.

Benefits

Benefit information can be found on the CalHR website and the CalPERS website.

Additional Insructions

If using education to meet the minimum qualifications, as specified in the classification specification, please include a copy of your degree or unofficial transcripts with your application package. Do not include confidential information such as social security numbers, date of birth, marital status, equal employment opportunity data, examination scores, and LEAP information.

Applicants who submit hard copy applications shall use the most current version of the State application ( STD. 678). Applicants who fail to submit the most current version may be disqualified. Employment information on the STD 678 MUST be complete with dates, duties, responsibilities, and contact information for supervisors. Failure to submit a completed STD 678 may result in being screened out.

Using the online application system as specified in the announcement is the preferred method of applying for civil service job opportunities; however, applicants may instead apply by way of U.S. mail, parcel delivery or courier service, or in person, as set forth in this announcement.  Electronic application packages must be received by 11:59 p.m. on the final filing date. Mail application packages must be postmarked before or on the final filing date. Hand delivered application packages must be hand delivered by 5:00 p.m. on the final filing date. Application packages postmarked, personally delivered, or received via interagency mail after 5:00 p.m. on the final filing date will not be accepted. 

Required Application Package Documents

The following items are required to be submitted with your application. Applicants who do not submit the required items timely may not be considered for this job:

• Current version of the State Examination/Employment Application STD Form 678 (when not applying electronically), or the Electronic State Employment Application through your Applicant Account at All Experience and Education relating to the Minimum Qualifications listed on the Classification Specification should be included to demonstrate how you meet the Minimum Qualifications for the position.
• Resume is optional. It may be included, but is not required.
• Statement of Qualifications -

  Candidates are required to complete a Statement of Qualification (SOQ) in addition to the State application (STD 678). The SOQ serves as documentation of each candidate's ability to present information clearly and concisely in writing.

  SOQs will be no more than two pages typed in Arial 12 pt font.

  1. What education, experience, skills, knowledge, and abilities qualify you for this position?

  2. Describe your experience working both independently and collaboratively in a team environment.