ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENTIST

Job Description and Duties

Please note, the Water Boards do not participate in E-Verify.

The Emergency Management Program (EMP) is part of the Office of Research, Planning, and Performance (ORPP) within the State Water Resources Control Board’s Executive Office. ORPP staff collaborate across teams and support one another through:

• Rigorous excellence: Bring creativity and curiosity, supported by quality work and sound analysis.
• Accountability: Take ownership, adapt as needed, and deliver on commitments.
• Collaboration: Lead or support others and seek help when needed.
• Direct, respectful communication that strengthens our work.
• Commitment to equity through inclusive practices and decisions.

Working at the Water Boards offers the opportunity to make a meaningful impact protecting California’s vital water resources. EMP is hiring two Environmental Scientists (ES) to support statewide emergency response and environmental resilience. This role contributes to safeguarding water quality during wildfires, floods, droughts, and other emergencies while collaborating with state, federal, tribal, and local partners.

During emergency activations, duties may include working at the State Operations Center or other emergency facilities. This may require working weekends, holidays, extended or rotating shifts, and travel to remote locations, including navigating challenging terrain and weather conditions. Candidates must communicate effectively, remain calm under pressure, and work within structured emergency response systems.

The Environmental Scientist will:
• Support preparedness, response, and recovery efforts for statewide emergencies.
• Coordinate with internal programs and external partners.
• Participate in briefings, meetings, outreach, and tribal consultations.
• Develop communication materials, reports, and training resources.
• Provide technical expertise on water quality and permitting needs.
• Support updates to emergency plans, policies, and procedures.
• Assist Water Board staff with coordination during emergencies.
• Integrate equity, climate resilience, and the Human Right to Water into planning efforts.
• Prepare reports, presentations, and after-action materials.

Applicants are encouraged to apply even if they do not have experience in every area listed. Candidates must meet minimum qualifications and have eligibility. Strong candidates will demonstrate accountability, collaboration, and the ability to work effectively in complex environments.

The position is located at 1001 I Street, 13th Floor, Sacramento, near light rail and public transportation. This recruitment will fill two vacancies; applicants only need to apply once.

Additional information:

Candidates must possess essential personal qualifications including integrity, initiative, dependability, good judgment, the ability to work cooperatively with others, and the ability to perform the assigned duties of the class.

If the position requires driving, you must possess a current and valid driver’s license. Please Do Not include full Social Security Number, method of eligibility, and LEAP information in your application package.

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Benefits

Water Board employees may be eligible for benefits. Health benefits and leave programs are available for most permanent, full-time employees, and some permanent, part-time employees. Benefit eligibility may depend on length of service and may be subject to collective bargaining agreements negotiated between the State of California and employee organizations that define wages, hours, and terms and conditions of employment. and