Scientific Aid

Job Description and Duties

Are you interested in a meaningful and impactful career? Would you like to contribute to protecting people and the environment and accelerating a statewide transition to sustainable pest management? The Department of Pesticide Regulation (DPR) could be the place for you!

Under the direct supervision of the Senior Environmental Scientist (Supervisory) and/or direction of lead staff, the incumbents will assist in collecting samples of fresh and processed food from designated wholesale markets, growers, and retail distributors for the Pesticide Residue Monitoring Program and the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Pesticide Data Program. The Scientific Aids prepare and transport samples; assist in conducting market surveillance where fresh and processed foods are purchased by consumers; prepare and submit reports of work activities; and conduct follow-up investigations when necessary.

You will find additional information about the job in the .

Working Conditions

The collection of samples as indicated for this position requires the ability to work in refrigerated coolers and warehouses; lift and carry a minimum of 25 pounds; and bend, squat, and climb over boxes, containers, or pallets. Occasional statewide travel may be required; including operating a state vehicle and occasional travel by airplane to different areas of the State for work activities, training and Department meetings.

NOTE: These positions may be eligible for hybrid telework under Government Code 14200 for eligible applicants residing in California, subject to the candidate meeting telework eligibility criteria set forth in the CalEPA telework policy and/or future program need. Employees not residing in California are not eligible for telework. Regardless of telework eligibility, all employees may be required to report to the position’s designated headquarters location, as indicated on their duty statement, at their own expense.

Beginning July 1, 2026, it is anticipated these positions will be office-centered and employees will be expected to report to the office at least four days per week.

Special Requirements

• The position(s) require(s) a valid California Drivers License (CDL). You must answer the questions addressing your CDL on your application. Ensure you provide your CDL number, class, expiration date, and any endorsements and/or restrictions.

• If education is required to meet the minimum qualifications, you must include a copy of your degree and/or unofficial transcripts in order to verify you meet the minimum qualifications. If you use unofficial transcripts to verify you meet the minimum qualifications, you must provide official transcripts prior to your start date, if selected for the position.

• Please do not include any confidential information on any documents you submit for this job vacancy. Confidential information includes, but is not limited to: basis of eligibility, examination results, LEAP status, Social Security Number (SSN), birthdate, marital status, age, national origin, medical conditions, and use of medical leave.

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:

• Knowledge or experience working with diverse cultural communities
• Awareness of diverse communities and regional demographics
• Ability to communicate respectfully and with sensitivity
• Strong attention to detail
• Ability to work well both independently and in a team environment
• Strong organization skills
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Experience with using Microsoft Applications

Benefits

Although employees in Scientific Aid positions are not eligible to receive health, dental, or vision benefits, the State does offer an array of other benefits that you can take advantage of, including a robust Employee Assistance Program, holiday and leave benefits, commuter reimbursement, and much more. To learn more about the benefits offered to State employees, please visit the CalHR website at .

If you have any questions, please contact DPR’s Human Resources Branch at (916) 322-4553.

Critical Job Competencies

• Communication : good oral and written and organizational skills
• Customer Service : ability to balance interests of a variety of clients, internal and external; provide a process to ensure clients receive high quality information and response is in a timely manner
• Problem Solving : ability to solve problems when alone on the job
• Teamwork : maintain cooperative working relationships Branch staff

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.
• School Transcripts