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Infection Control Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Infection Control Nurse

Avalon, CA · On-site

$84K - $112K/yr

Coordinates and supports the facility-wide Infection Prevention and Control Program in compliance with: * CMS Conditions of Participation for Critical Access Hospitals * CMS Requirements of ...

Details Client Name Novato Job Type Travel Offering Nursing Profession RN Specialty Infection Control Job ID 36540567 Job Title RN - Infection Control Weekly Pay $2238.96 Shift Details Shift 5x8 days ...

RN - Infection Control

Orange, CA · On-site

$79K - $106K/yr

RN - Infection Control This Infection Control RN is responsible for assisting in the effective direction, management and operation of the infection prevention and control/epidemiology department ...

New

Infection Control Data Abstractor

Brawley, CA · On-site

$79K - $106K/yr

Infection Control Data Abstractor works under the direction of the Infection Control Practitioner and is accountable for abstracting, compiling, monitoring and reporting data from multiple electronic ...

Infection Control Data Abstractor

Brawley, CA · On-site

$79K - $106K/yr

Infection Control Data Abstractor works under the direction of the Infection Control Practitioner and is accountable for abstracting, compiling, monitoring and reporting data from multiple electronic ...

Showing results 21-40

Infection Control information

See California salary details

$43

$133

$189

How much do infection control jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for infection control in California is $133.47, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49.09 and $189.81 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is infection control?

Infection control refers to the policies and procedures used to minimize the risk of spreading infections, particularly in hospitals and healthcare settings. Infection control professionals work to prevent and manage the transmission of infectious diseases among patients, healthcare workers, and visitors. This includes implementing hygiene practices, sterilization protocols, and monitoring outbreaks. Effective infection control helps ensure patient safety and protects public health.

What are the qualifications to get a job in infection control?

The qualifications that you need to get a career in infection control include specialized education, healthcare knowledge, and investigative and planning skills. If your responsibilities involve directly treating patients, you need at least an associate degree in nursing and a nursing license. Since these positions require advanced knowledge of infectious diseases and the associated dangers, employers prefer nurses and practitioners with extensive experience in infectious disease treatment and at least a bachelor’s degree in nursing. Infectious disease coordinators may need a degree in public health in addition to or instead of a master’s degree.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an infection control professional, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Infection Control professional, you need a background in microbiology or nursing, knowledge of infection prevention protocols, and usually a relevant certification such as CIC (Certification in Infection Control). Familiarity with epidemiological surveillance systems, data analysis tools, and regulatory guidelines like those from the CDC or WHO is essential. Strong communication, attention to detail, and analytical thinking are standout soft skills in this position. These abilities are vital to effectively prevent and manage healthcare-associated infections, ensuring patient safety and regulatory compliance.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in infection control roles, and how can they be addressed?

Infection Control professionals often face challenges such as ensuring staff compliance with protocols, keeping up with evolving regulations, and managing outbreaks swiftly. Navigating resistance to change and promoting a culture of safety can require strong communication and education skills. Successful Infection Control specialists frequently collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, provide ongoing training, and stay updated through continuing education to effectively address these challenges.

What is the difference between Infection Control vs Medical Assistant?

AspectInfection ControlMedical Assistant
CertificationsCertified in Infection Control (CIC), OSHA trainingCertified Medical Assistant (CMA), CPR certification
Work EnvironmentHospitals, clinics, public health settingsDoctor's offices, outpatient clinics, hospitals
Job FocusPreventing and managing infections, compliance with health standardsAssisting with patient care, administrative tasks, clinical support

Infection Control specialists focus on preventing and managing infections within healthcare settings, requiring specific certifications like CIC. Medical Assistants support clinical and administrative tasks in healthcare facilities. While both roles work in healthcare environments, Infection Control professionals concentrate on infection prevention, whereas Medical Assistants provide direct patient care and support.

Is infection control a good career?

Infection control is a vital healthcare profession focused on preventing the spread of infections through practices like sanitation, sterilization, and monitoring. It often requires certifications such as CIC and involves working in healthcare settings, laboratories, or public health agencies, offering stable employment and opportunities for advancement.

Is infection control a stressful job?

Infection control professionals often work in high-pressure environments, especially during outbreaks or emergencies, which can contribute to job stress. The role requires attention to detail, adherence to strict protocols, and sometimes irregular hours, all of which can impact stress levels.

What does an infection control specialist do?

An infection control specialist develops and implements procedures to prevent the spread of infections in healthcare settings. They monitor infection rates, conduct staff training, and ensure compliance with safety standards, often requiring knowledge of microbiology and relevant certifications. Their work helps protect patients and staff from infectious diseases.

What is the career path for infection control?

The career path for infection control professionals typically begins with roles such as infection control technician or specialist, often requiring a background in healthcare or microbiology. Advancement can lead to positions like infection control nurse, supervisor, or manager, with additional certifications such as CIC (Certified in Infection Control) supporting career growth. Experience in healthcare settings, strong knowledge of infection prevention protocols, and ongoing education are important for progression.

What are the most commonly searched types of Infection Control jobs in California?

The most popular types of Infection Control jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Infection Control jobs?

Cities in California with the most Infection Control job openings:

Infographic showing various Infection Control job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 72% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $277,616 per year, or $133.5 per hour.

Infection Control Practitioner

LE0030 Stanford Health Care Tri-Valley

Pleasanton, CA • On-site

$90.92 - $123.98/hr

Other

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

About the Position

Stanford Health Care - Tri‑Valley is hiring an Infection Control Practitioner to collaborate with all departments, carry out infection control projects, and reduce the risk of infection to patients, visitors, and staff.

Essential Functions
  • Conduct ongoing surveillance using CDC infection criteria, documentation, and investigation of nosocomial infections.
  • Evaluate the effectiveness of the surveillance plan by analyzing trends and risk factors, design and evaluate prevention and control strategies.
  • Collect, analyze, and report data as required by state and national compliance standards.
  • Participate in quality/performance improvement activities by assessing, monitoring, and evaluating outcomes continuously.
  • Plan, organize, develop, and present educational programs for all hospital employees to ensure compliance with infection control best practices.
  • Serve as a knowledgeable resource on infection control practices and policies to patients, families, and employees.
  • Prepare and present surveillance reports to designated committees.
  • Maintain a knowledge base of infection prevention and control information to establish policies and procedures that prevent exposures and cross‑contamination.
  • Maintain compliance with national standards and regulatory bodies such as The Joint Commission (TJC), CDC, OSHA, FDA, and HCFA.
  • Perform all duties in accordance with the C‑I‑CARE Standards of the Hospital.
Education & Experience
  • Bachelor of Science in Nursing or other clinical healthcare field or public health (required).
  • Minimum 3 years of experience in an acute care facility.
  • Minimum 2 years of infection control experience.
  • Strong background in epidemiology and data analysis (preferred).
Licensing & Certification
  • Registered Nurse (RN) with a current California RN license.
  • National Certification in Infection Control (CIC) preferred; required within 3 years of hire.
  • Basic Life Support (BLS) for the Healthcare Provider from AHA (required).
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
  • Strong organizational skills and ability to multitask.
  • Proficiency with MS Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint), email, and internet.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
  • Effective interpersonal skills.
  • Ability to work independently, prioritize work, and provide high level of customer service and staff training.
  • Ability to apply epidemiological principles to projects and evaluate environmental practices.
Physical Demands and Working Conditions

Typical physical requirements and working conditions are available from the Occupational Health Department. Reasonable accommodations will be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

Compensation

Generally starting at $65.93–$89.63 per hour, with the final salary determined by internal equity, experience, education, specialty, and training.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Stanford Health Care - ValleyCare (SHC - VC) strongly values diversity and is committed to equal opportunity and non‑discrimination in all its policies and practices, including employment. SHC does not discriminate against any person based on race, color, sex, sexual orientation or gender identity and/or expression, religion, age, national or ethnic origin, political beliefs, marital status, medical condition, genetic information, veteran status, disability, or the perception of any of the above. People of all genders, racial and ethnic groups, people with disabilities, and veterans are encouraged to apply. Qualified applicants with criminal convictions will be considered after an individualized assessment of the conviction and the job requirements.

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