Overview
The Food and Drug Branch’s (FDB) mission is to protect and enhance the public health and the well-being for all. FDB accomplishes this through sound science and enforcement of laws and regulations pertaining to food, cosmetics, drugs, medical devices, and industrial hemp products.
Job Description and Duties
THERE IS ONE VACANCY BEING ADVERTISED ACROSS MULTIPLE COUNTIES. THE INCUMBENT WILL BE HEADQUARTERED IN THE COUNTY NEAREST THE RESIDENCE OF THE SELECTED CANDIDATE. THE COUNTIES ARE: * Orange, Los Angeles, San Diego or San Bernardino *
This position supports the California Department of Public Health’s (CDPH) mission and strategic plan by promoting health and wellness and improving state health outcomes by advancing protective measures and reducing risks.
The Investigator conducts extensive and complex investigations; initiates enforcement actions to protect the public health; provides educational outreach; participates in a team environment in planning, evaluation, and quality improvement; maintains technical proficiency; and works cooperatively with industry and government agencies.
This position is designated as peace officer per California Penal Code 830.3 (f) and (h). This position performs the full range of peace officer duties and responsibilities in the accomplishment of their assignments and must be in compliance with the California Commission on Peace Officer Standards and Training (CA POST). During the course of their employment, they are required to carry a firearm and be proficient in its use. Further, must be knowledgeable in the area of use of force, demonstrating appropriate use as prescribed in department policy.
This classification consists of two alternate ranges; and as incumbent advances within the classification’s ranges, their law enforcement responsibilities are expected to be more complex and require broader knowledge and application of investigative techniques and procedures. More advanced incumbents will train and lead staff in the performance of field investigations and conduct the more complex criminal, civil, and/or administrative investigations to detect or verify suspected violations of laws.
The incumbent works under the general direction of the Supervising Food and Drug Investigator of the Food and Drug Branch (FDB), Food Investigations and Technical Support Section (FITSS), Food Safety Enforcement Unit (SEU).
In July 2025, the State of California implemented the Personal Leave Program (PLP) 2025. This program temporarily reduces employees’ monthly base pay in exchange for paid leave credits. This position is subject to PLP 2025 and will have a monthly base pay reduction of 2% in exchange for 3.5 hours of leave credits through June 2027. The salary ranges shown on this job posting do not reflect the salary reduction.
This classification is authorized to receive a starting salary rate of $6974.00 under Pay Scales Section 5.
Desirable Qualifications
In addition to evaluating each candidate’s relative ability, as demonstrated by quality and breadth of experience, the following factors will provide the basis for competitively evaluating each candidate:
• Ability to work constructively with internal and external stakeholders.
• Possess a valid and current POST certificate: Basic or Specialized Investigator Basic Certificate.
• Experience in law enforcement and conducting investigations.
Minimum Requirements
You will find the Minimum Requirements in the Class Specification.
https://hrnet.calhr.ca.gov/CalHRNet/SpecCrossReference.aspx?ClassID=8610
How To Apply
Complete Application Packages (including your Examination/Employment Application (STD 678) and applicable or required documents) must be submitted to apply for this Job Posting. Application Packages may be submitted electronically through your CalCareer Account at www.CalCareers.ca.gov. When submitting your application in hard copy, a completed copy of the Application Package listing must be included.
https://calcareers.ca.gov/CalHrPublic/Jobs/JobPosting.aspx?JobControlId=511493
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.
About California Department of Public Health (CDPH)
CDPH works to protect the public's health in the Golden State and helps shape positive health outcomes for individuals, families and communities. The Department's programs and services, implemented in collaboration with local health departments and state, federal and private partners, touch the lives of every Californian and visitor to the state 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Our Shared Vision
CDPH public health professionals, researchers, scientists, doctors, nurses, and other staff members have a shared vision to protect and improve the health of all Californians. We are dedicated to public service and passionate about our work and the people and communities we serve and protect.
Diversity Statement
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.
