Climate Change and Health Vulnerability Indicators Scientist

The California Department of Public Health is seeking a Research Scientist II focused on Climate Change and Health Vulnerability Indicators. This role involves developing and analyzing surveillance indicators related to climate change and health equity. The position offers a hybrid work model, allowing telework up to three days a week, with in-person attendance required at least two days. Candidates must reside in California and possess relevant educational qualifications.
About the position

The Research Scientist II (Climate Change and Health Vulnerability Indicators Scientist) position at the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) is a pivotal role aimed at addressing the intersection of climate change and health equity. This position is designed for individuals who are passionate about climate justice and are eager to contribute to the advancement of health and racial equity. The incumbent will be headquartered in the county nearest to their residence, specifically in Contra Costa County or Sacramento County, and will work under the supervision of the Research Scientist Supervisor I within the Climate Surveillance Science Unit of the Research and Evaluation Branch, Office of Health Equity. In this role, the Research Scientist II will be responsible for planning, organizing, and maintaining a comprehensive set of surveillance indicators related to climate change and health equity, known as the Climate Change and Health Vulnerability Indicators for California (CCHVI). The incumbent will develop these indicators, conduct thorough data analysis, and disseminate findings through program reports and dashboards. Ensuring the scientific quality of all indicators is a critical aspect of this position, as the data produced will inform public health strategies and interventions aimed at mitigating the health impacts of climate change. The position offers a hybrid work model, allowing for telework up to three days per week, while requiring in-person attendance at the designated headquarters office at least two days per week. This flexibility is subject to the discretion of the Department and may change in accordance with CDPH's Telework Program. Candidates must be California residents, as residency is a condition of employment. Business travel may be required, and candidates will be responsible for their commute expenses to the headquarters office.

Responsibilities
• Plan, organize, and maintain a set of surveillance indicators related to climate change and health equity.
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• Develop indicators for the Climate Change and Health Vulnerability Indicators for California (CCHVI).
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• Perform data analysis to support the development of health vulnerability indicators.
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• Share data findings through program reports and dashboards.
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• Ensure the scientific quality of all indicators developed.

Requirements
• Master's Degree in a relevant field is required; Doctoral Degree preferred.
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• Experience in epidemiology or biostatistics is essential.
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• Strong analytical skills and proficiency in data analysis techniques.
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• Ability to communicate complex data findings effectively to diverse audiences.

Nice-to-haves
• Experience with climate change and health equity research.
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• Familiarity with public health surveillance systems.
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• Knowledge of statistical software and data visualization tools.

Benefits
• Educational pay differential for advanced degrees (2% for Master's, 3% for Doctoral).
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• Hybrid work model with telework options.
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• Opportunity to contribute to meaningful public health initiatives.