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Poison Control Jobs in Berkeley, CA (NOW HIRING)

PHARMACIST SR EX

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$92.33 - $108.32/hr

Toxicology Management Specialist The California Poison Control System is hiring for a Toxicology Management Specialist to provide over the phone information to California health care professionals ...

Poison Control information

See Berkeley, CA salary details

$15

$29

$47

How much do poison control jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for poison control in Berkeley, CA is $29.92, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.07 and $37.40 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a poison control specialist do?

A Poison Control specialist provides emergency assistance and medical guidance in cases of poisoning or toxic exposure. They assess the severity of the situation, offer first-aid instructions, and determine if medical attention is needed. Specialists work in Poison Control Centers, assisting both the public and healthcare professionals. Their goal is to prevent harm and ensure proper treatment for individuals exposed to hazardous substances.

What does a typical workday look like for a poison control specialist?

A typical day in Poison Control involves fielding incoming calls from the public and healthcare professionals, assessing exposure situations, and providing evidence-based treatment recommendations. You may collaborate with hospitals, emergency response teams, and physicians to guide patient care for both minor and severe poisoning cases. The work environment is often fast-paced and call-center based, with team members supporting each other in complex scenarios. Documentation, ongoing education, and participation in outreach or preventative education sessions are also common responsibilities. This role offers the opportunity to make a direct impact on public health and often includes pathways for professional growth into supervisory or educational positions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the poison control position, and why are they important?

To thrive in Poison Control, you need a background in toxicology, pharmacy, nursing, or a related health science, along with excellent assessment and decision-making abilities. Familiarity with poison information databases, call center software, and certification as a Certified Specialist in Poison Information (CSPI) are often required. Outstanding communication, empathy, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are critical soft skills in this role. These competencies are vital for providing accurate, timely advice during emergencies and ensuring public safety.

What qualifications do you need to work at poison control?

To work at poison control, candidates typically need a background in healthcare, such as a nursing degree, pharmacy license, or medical training, along with strong communication and problem-solving skills. Certification in poison information or toxicology is often preferred, and some positions require experience in emergency or clinical settings.

What cities near Berkeley, CA are hiring for Poison Control jobs?

Cities near Berkeley, CA with the most Poison Control job openings:

Infographic showing various Poison Control job openings in Berkeley, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 11% Temporary. Highlights an 85% In-person, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $62,233 per year, or $29.9 per hour.

PHARMACIST SR EX

UCSF

San Francisco, CA • On-site

$92.33 - $108.32/hr

Other

Re-posted 12 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

229th of 618 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Toxicology Management Specialist

The California Poison Control System is hiring for a Toxicology Management Specialist to provide over the phone information to California health care professionals and to the general public regarding the diagnosis, assessment, and treatment of poisoning or potential poisoning.

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 four UC-affiliated answering sites (UCSF/ZSFG, UCDMC, 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 San Francisco Division, on the ZSFG Hospital campus in San Francisco, CA. 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.

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.

The salary range for this position is $92.33 - $108.32 (Hourly Rate).


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