JC-487606 – Unit Chief

Overview

This position supports the California Department of Public Health’s mission and strategic plan by advancing the health and well-being of California’s diverse people and communities. As an employee of the Food and Drug Branch (FDB), this position is part of a professional team dedicated to protecting and enhancing public health and well-being for all. We accomplish this through sound science and enforcement of laws and regulations pertaining to food, cosmetics, drugs, medical devices, and industrial hemp products.

“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 not currently an E-Verify employer.

Department Website: https://www.cdph.ca.gov

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.

THERE IS ONE VACANCY BEING ADVERTISED ACROSS MULTIPLE COUNTIES. THE CANDIDATE WILL BE HEADQUARTERED IN THE COUNTY NEAREST THE RESIDENCE OF THE SELECTED CANDIDATE. THE COUNTIES ARE: * Sacramento, Contra Costa, Fresno, Los Angeles, San Bernardino and Orange *

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 risk.

The Chief of the Food and Drug Unit (Unit Chief) within the Investigations and Enforcement Unit (IEU) is responsible for planning, organizing, directing, coordinating, and evaluating the activities of the drug and medical device program. This includes enforcing drug and medical device laws and regulations, while adhering to applicable law enforcement processes and legal proceedings.

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, they must be knowledgeable in the area of use of force, demonstrating appropriate use as prescribed in department policy.

Minimum Requirements

You will find the Minimum Requirements in the Class Specification.

CHIEF, FOOD AND DRUG UNIT
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=487606

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.