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Poison Control Center Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

RESTORATION TECHNICIAN ORGANIZATION Sonoma Ecology Center is a 35-year-old nonprofit with a mission ... Streambank stabilization and erosion control installation * Trail creation and maintenance * Log ...

RESTORATION TECHNICIAN ORGANIZATION Sonoma Ecology Center is a 35-year-old nonprofit with a mission ... Streambank stabilization and erosion control installation * Trail creation and maintenance * Log ...

Senior Land Surveyor

San Luis Obispo, CA · On-site

$120K - $135K/yr

Clear written and verbal communication skills, learning and adhering to company Quality Control ... Perform tasks such as clearing vegetation (including poison oak), digging holes, and/or pounding ...

Clear written and verbal communication skills, learning and adhering to company Quality Control ... Perform tasks such as clearing vegetation (including poison oak), digging holes, and/or pounding ...

Poison Control Center information

See California salary details

$9

$22

$43

How much do poison control center jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for poison control center in California is $22.17, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.54 and $24.48 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What do you need to work at poison control?

To work at a poison control center, candidates typically need a background in healthcare, such as nursing, pharmacy, or toxicology, along with relevant certifications like a registered nurse license or pharmacy license. Strong communication skills, the ability to handle high-pressure situations, and knowledge of toxic substances are also important. Some positions may require specialized training or experience in emergency response or poison information services.

What are the most common daily responsibilities for professionals working in a Poison Control Center?

Professionals in a Poison Control Center spend much of their day responding to calls from the public and healthcare providers regarding possible poisoning exposures, offering immediate medical guidance and risk assessments. They use specialized databases and protocols to evaluate symptoms and determine the best course of action, whether that means home management or emergency intervention. Documentation and follow-up are also essential parts of the job to ensure continuity of care. Teamwork is important, as you’ll frequently collaborate with physicians, nurses, pharmacists, and public health officials to coordinate effective responses.

Who staffs poison control centers?

Poison control centers are staffed by trained healthcare professionals, including toxicologists, nurses, and medical staff with specialized knowledge in poison management. Staff members often work in shifts to provide 24/7 emergency assistance and may use tools like poison databases and communication systems to assist callers effectively.

What is a Poison Control Center job?

A Poison Control Center job involves providing immediate medical guidance and information to individuals who may have been exposed to toxic substances. Specialists, often trained healthcare professionals like pharmacists or nurses, assess cases over the phone and offer treatment recommendations. They work in coordination with emergency responders and healthcare providers to ensure patient safety. Their goal is to prevent poisoning-related injuries and hospitalizations by offering expert advice 24/7.

How much does a poison information specialist make?

A poison information specialist typically earns between $40,000 and $60,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and location. They often work in poison control centers, utilizing specialized knowledge and communication skills to assist callers with poisoning emergencies.

Are toxicologists in high demand?

Toxicologists, including those working in poison control centers, are in steady demand due to the need for expertise in chemical safety, risk assessment, and public health. Employment opportunities often require a strong educational background, such as a master's or doctoral degree, and knowledge of laboratory techniques and regulatory standards.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Poison Control Center position, and why are they important?

To thrive in a Poison Control Center role, you typically need a background in nursing, pharmacy, or toxicology, along with strong clinical judgment and crisis management skills. Familiarity with poison databases, triage protocols, and telephone triage systems, as well as relevant certifications such as Certified Specialist in Poison Information (CSPI), are often required. Outstanding communication, problem-solving ability, and the capacity to remain calm under pressure are vital soft skills for this position. These competencies are important because they enable prompt, accurate advice during emergencies, ensuring patient safety and positive public health outcomes.

What are the most commonly searched types of Poison Control Center jobs in California? The most popular types of Poison Control Center jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Poison Control Center jobs? Cities in California with the most Poison Control Center job openings:
Infographic showing various Poison Control Center job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,106 per year, or $22.2 per hour.
Poison Center Clinical Coordinator Pharmacist (Madera, CA)

Poison Center Clinical Coordinator Pharmacist (Madera, CA)

University of California San Francisco

Madera, CA • On-site

$120K - $143K/yr

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago


University Of California San Francisco rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

225th of 612 rated colleges and universities


Job description


The California Poison Control System (CPCS) is a 24 hour-a-day informational hotline serving residents statewide in California. It is designated by the California Emergency Medical Services Authority and managed by the UCSF School of Pharmacy, Department of Clinical Pharmacy.
CPCS operates from 4 UC-affiliated answering sites (UCSF/ZSFG, UCD Health, Valley Children's Hospital, and UCSD) managing approximately 250,000 calls per year, utilizing the most up-to-date computerized information systems. The hotline service is linked to a translator service with the capability to handle multiple languages on a 24 hour per day basis.
Respond to calls to the California Poison Control System (CPCS) located at the Fresno/Madera Division at Valley Children's Hospital in Madera, California a partner of University of California, San Francisco at 41169 Goodwin Way Suite 211, Madera, CA 93636. Provide assessment, information, management advice, in-depth consultation, and follow-up for emergency telephone toxicology and poisoning calls. Participate in scholarly activities to include research, publications, and professional organizations. Perform other duties as assigned.
Responsibilities
DUTIES & ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS
Identify the functions or tasks that employees in the job perform. The essential functions should state the purpose of the work and the results to be accomplished, rather than how the function is performed. Of the tasks listed, what percentage of time is devoted to each? The more time employees spend on a function, the more likely it is that the function is essential. Generally, include those functions that account for 10% or more of the work, i.e., key items that contribute significantly to the achievement of the job. The functions should add up to 100%.
of time
Essential Function (Yes/No)
Key Responsibilities
(To be completed by Supervisor)
40
YesUnder the direction of the Managing and Medical Directors, perform comprehensive case reviews to support quality assurance and continuous quality improvement initiatives. Responsibilities include conducting detailed reviews of cases; evaluating clinical and operational practices for adherence to established guidelines, policies, and procedures; identifying gaps, trends, and opportunities for improvement; and preparing clear, accurate reports summarizing findings and recommendations.
10
YesAssist with the training and development of new staff members under the direction of Managing and Medical Directors. Responsibilities include supporting onboarding activities, providing instruction on departmental policies, procedures, and best practices, and serving as a resource. In addition, monitor trainee progress, offers constructive feedback, identifies areas for development, and provide progress reports to the Medical and Managing Directors with respect to independent practice readiness.
40
Yes
Provides initial management advice, and follow-up for emergency and informational telephone calls requested of the CPCS Hotline. Obtain pertinent and appropriate information, appropriately assess the seriousness of the situation, and answer caller inquiries with complete, concise and relevant recommendations for action in terms that are appropriate to the calling party's level of understanding.
Direct, assist and serve as back up for Specialists in Poison Information and Providers in the CPCS hotline service.
Oversee the medical advice provided by students, visiting health care professionals, Poison Information Providers and Specialist in Poison Information assigned to the PCC service.
5
YesDocument all calls and consultations on the standard PCC written or electronic medical record form.
2.5
YesInvolvement in CPCS teaching programs. This may include: developing and presenting lectures to community and professional groups regarding poisoning management and prevention; assisting in precepting students and post-graduate graduate residents and fellows rotating through the Poison Center. Participation in scholarly activities to include research, publications and professional organizations.
2.5
YesAssist with development of toxicology management protocols. Other duties as assigned.
100%
(To update total %, enter the amount of time in whole numbers (without the % symbol - e.g., 15, 20) then highlight the total sum (e.g., 1%) at the bottom of the column and press F9. The total sum should add up to 100%.)
Qualifications
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
  • Pharm.D. Degree
  • CA Licensed Pharmacist in good standing currently or by the time of starting.
  • Minimum of 2 years of experience in clinically-oriented pharmacy practice OR 2 years prior Poison Control Center experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience; and knowledge and ability necessary for the successful performance of the duties assigned to the position.
  • Demonstrated active pursuit of certification by the American Board of Applied Toxicology (ABAT). Required to obtain certification within 3years of hiring.
  • Specialist in Poison Information Certification by America's Poison Centers OR certification by the American Board of Applied Toxicology (DABAT)
  • Knowledge of the proper use of computerized databases, texts, and files
  • Knowledge of the proper use of back-up medical consultants
  • Experience and a thorough understanding of potential interactions between drugs and disease states
  • Written and verbal communication skills must be superb in English and adaptable to situations involving callers ranging from children and the lay public to healthcare professionals
  • Adherence to all operational policies, protocols, standards and applicable philosophies and missions

(Will work an average of 80 hours over each 2-week period.)
PREFERRED QUALIFICATION
  • Post graduate or clinical pharmacy residency or fellowship training
  • Certification by the American Board of Applied Toxicology (DABAT)
  • Involvement in scholarly activities
  • Multilingual

About Us
About UCSF
The University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) is a leading university dedicated to promoting health worldwide through advanced biomedical research, graduate-level education in the life sciences and health professions, and excellence in patient care. It is the only campus in the 10-campus UC system dedicated exclusively to the health sciences. We bring together the world's leading experts in nearly every area of health. We are home to five Nobel laureates who have advanced the understanding of cancer, neurodegenerative diseases, aging and stem cells.
Pride Values
UCSF is a diverse community made of people with many skills and talents. We seek candidates whose work experience or community service has prepared them to contribute to our commitment to professionalism, respect, integrity, diversity and excellence - also known as our PRIDE values.
In addition to our PRIDE values, UCSF is committed to equity - both in how we deliver care as well as our workforce. We are committed to building a broadly diverse community, nurturing a culture that is welcoming and supportive, and engaging diverse ideas for the provision of culturally competent education, discovery, and patient care. Additional information about UCSF is available here.
Join us to find a rewarding career contributing to improving healthcare worldwide.
Equal Employment Opportunity
The University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected status under state or federal law.
Salary Information
The final salary and offer components are subject to additional approvals based on UC policy.
Your placement within the salary range is dependent on a number of factors including your work experience and internal equity within this position classification at UCSF. For positions that are represented by a labor union, placement within the salary range will be guided by the rules in the collective bargaining agreement.
To learn more about the benefits of working at UCSF, including total compensation, please visit: https://ucnet.universityofcalifornia.edu/compensation-and-benefits/index.html

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