Environmental Scientist

Job Description and Duties

The Department of Cannabis Control is seeking a motivated, detail-oriented Environmental Scientist to join the Compliance Inspection Branch in the SoCal Office, LA North Unit. This position is primarily based in Los Angeles County and plays a critical role in ensuring environmental and operational compliance across California's licensed cannabis facilities.

Under the supervision of the Senior Environmental Scientist (SES) (Supervisory) in the LA North Unit (Unit), within the SoCal Office (Office), part of the Compliance Inspection Branch (Branch), part of the Compliance Division (Division), within the Department of Cannabis Control (Department), the Environmental Scientist (ES) will perform scientific fieldwork and compliance evaluations across all licensed cannabis facilities. The incumbent will be responsible for verifying that licensed facilities are operating in accordance with applicable statutes, regulations, and environmental protection requirements.

The incumbent will conduct onsite inspections, technical assessments, and may participate in investigations within an assigned geographic area. The incumbent may also be required to perform coordinated fieldwork and investigations with other governmental agencies, as needed. The geographical location for this position is located within Southern California; however, may be required to conduct business throughout the State of California (State).

Do you thrive in a fast-paced environment?

Join us and help advance California's cannabis regulatory framework by supporting Division-wide environmental, operational, and compliance oversight.

• Conduct onsite inspections of licensed cannabis facilities in Los Angeles County.
• Assess compliance with cannabis and environmental regulations and identify deficiencies.
• Prepare clear inspection reports with supporting documentation.
• Support coordinated inspections and search warrants with investigative or law enforcement entities.
• Communicate compliance findings to licensees, stakeholders, and internal staff.

• Review operational records, inventory data, and tracking system information for compliance.
• Evaluate documentation related to water use, waste management, pesticides, storage, and transport.
• Apply scientific methods to identify non compliance and recommend corrective actions.
• Coordinate with regulatory and investigative partners on cases involving environmental or operational concerns.

• Collaborate with federal, state, and local regulatory agencies on compliance matters.
• Provide guidance to licensees and industry representatives on environmental and operational requirements.
• Support educational and outreach efforts, including workshops and seminars.

You will find additional information about the job in the Duty Statement.

Candidates who reside outside of the State of California may be admitted to the job interview. However, upon a job offer, candidates must provide proof of residence in California prior to their appointment becoming effective, or the offer may be rescinded.

You will find the Minimum Requirements in the Class Specification.

• ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENTIST

• Job Application Package Checklist
• Duty Statement

Job Code #: JC-530686

Position #(s): -062

-063

-042

Working Title: Environmental Scientist

Classification: ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENTIST

$4,418.00 - $6,035.00

A

$5,370.00 - $7,350.00

B

$6,796.00 - $9,321.00

C

New to State candidates will be hired into the minimum salary of the classification or minimum of alternate range when applicable.

# of Positions: Multiple

Work Location: Los Angeles County

Telework: Hybrid

Job Type: Permanent, Full Time

The Department of Cannabis Control is looking for a dynamic, highly motivated individual that wants to work in a multi-tasking environment. The Department's mission is to develop and implement progressive cannabis policies and license and regulate commercial cannabis activity in a way that best protects public health, safety, the environment, and local communities throughout the State of California.

Department Website:

• 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…