JC-Data Management Branch Chief

Overview

The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) is currently hiring an IT Specialist to serve within our Information Technology Services Division as a Data Management Branch Chief. In this role, you will serve as CDPH’s Executive Technology leader for data science, enterprise analytics platforms, and health data exchange infrastructure. This person is responsible for enabling real‑time data integration, supporting AI/ML‑driven public health intelligence, and embedding health equity analytics across CDPH.

This includes leading the implementation of cloud‑native architectures; utilizing generative AI solutions in partnership with the Technology Integration Services Branch (TISB); and state‑wide data interoperability initiatives aligned with the California Health and Human Services (CalHHS) Data Exchange Framework (DxF) and Future of Public Health (FoPH) priorities.

The Final date to receive applications is March 18th, 2026, at 11:59 PM PT. Please reach out to  with any questions.

• Plans, organizes, and directs the activities of DMB which includes leading a highly technical staff responsible for managing the full lifecycle of data products and tools, including long‑term usage; enabling real‑time data integration; and embedding health equity analytics across CDPH. Collaborates with other departmental entities on program effectiveness assessments and data management principles. Leads the modernization and operation of cloud‑based data platforms, including the modernization of CDPH’s enterprise data platforms such as Azure, Databricks, and Power BI.
  
  Oversee the development of secure and scalable data pipelines. Maintains focus on equity‑centered analytics and governance by establishing equity analytics frameworks, partnering with CDPH equity offices and stakeholders, and overseeing data governance to ensure transparency and ethical use.
• Provides general directions to management staff; recruits, hires and onboards new staff; reviews performance standards and conducts performance appraisals. Evaluates and delegates workloads, sets goals and priorities, and monitors project progress and quality of products. Fosters a data‑driven culture through developing communication plans, training programs, and delivering presentations to enhance data literacy across the organization. Partners with ODS/CDO to translate enterprise data strategy and governance into platform roadmaps, technical standards, and operating models for CDPH programs.
  
  Co‑establishes and maintains program‑level modernization partnerships across CDPH Centers/Divisions/Offices; intake pathways, and adopts plans for analytics platforms (e.g., Azure, Databricks, Power BI).
• Demonstrates strong cross‑functional partnerships within CDPH to align technology initiatives with broader organizational goals; coordinates with CDPH Divisions/Centers/Offices to gather requirements; ensures seamless integration of technology solutions and objectives; and promotes a cohesive approach to digital innovation across CDPH. Collaborates with senior leadership to define technology direction, aligns investments with CDPH’s mission, and advocates for preparedness of emerging technologies. Engages with external partners, vendors, and agencies, contributing to collaborative technological efforts in the public health sector.
  
  Manages vendor relationships; assesses vendor capabilities; and collaborates with vendors to review and vet technology requirements. Ensures effective communication and collaboration with vendors to support CDPH’s technology needs. Ensures efficient project execution; serves as a liaison for effective communication; and maintains strong relationships to drive successful technology integration efforts aligning with technological modernization strategies in support of CDPH programs.
• Coordinates enterprise‑wide data quality initiatives and develops policies and processes for improving data quality to include developing short‑ and long‑term enterprise data management projects; defining and refining operational goals and objectives related to automation and innovation within the data domain. Assesses the success of assigned CDO and…