Environmental Protection Program Senior Scientist

About the role

This is a permanent, full-time Senior Environmental Scientist (Specialist) position with the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) in Sacramento County. The role involves serving and safeguarding the people and protecting the property and resources of California as part of a team that responds to emergencies and challenging situations.

Duty statement

Please see the Duty Statement link, found in the Additional Documents section, for more information.

Special requirements

• Medical Clearance required prior to being hired
• All job applicants must provide their employment history on the application form (State Application STD 678) rather than attaching a resume to the form, otherwise the application may be considered incomplete
• Do NOT include confidential information on any documents you submit (SSN, birthdate, student ID, driver's license number unless required, examination results, LEAP status, marital status, age)
• If meeting Minimum Qualifications with education, include unofficial transcripts/diploma for verification; official transcripts may be required upon appointment
• Possession of Minimum Qualifications will be verified prior to interview and/or appointment

Minimum qualifications

The minimum qualifications can be found in the Senior Environmental Scientist (Specialist) classification specifications.

Who may apply

• Individuals currently in the classification
• Those eligible for lateral transfer, reinstatement, or list/LEAP eligibility
• Those in the process of obtaining list eligibility
• SROA and/or Surplus candidates (attach letter if available) — these candidates receive priority

Application process

Final Filing Date: 8/15/2026

Complete Application Packages (including Examination/Employment Application STD 678 and required documents) may be submitted electronically through your CalCareer Account at www.CalCareers.ca.gov. Hard copy applications may be mailed to Department of Forestry & Fire Protection, Attn: Classification and Pay - Personnel Technician, P.O. Box 944246, Sacramento, CA 94244-2460, or dropped off at 710 Riverpoint Court, Suite 250, West Sacramento, CA 95605, 08:00 AM - 05:00 PM.

Applicants are highly encouraged to complete a Recruitment Questionnaire at: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/HLYSH8V

Required application package documents

• Current version of the State Examination/Employment Application STD Form 678 (or electronic equivalent)
• Resume
• Degree and/or School Transcripts (if applicable)

Pay and schedule

• Salary: $7,820.00 - $10,732.00 per month (new to state candidates hired at minimum salary)
• Work location: Sacramento County
• Telework: In Office
• Position type: Permanent, Full Time
• Positions available: 1

Note: Effective July 1, 2025, state employees are subject to temporary salary reductions ranging from 2% to 4.62% in exchange for Personal Leave Program (PLP) hours. The salary ranges listed may not reflect these reductions. See http://hrmanual.calhr.ca.gov/Home/ManualItem/1/2113 for more information.