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Toxicologist Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Principal Toxicologist (Ph.D.)

Oakland, CA ยท On-site

$200K - $300K/yr

As a Principal Toxicologist, you will lead projects, identify new clients, expand relationships with existing clients, develop technical staff, and develop new business in related Health Sciences ...

About the Role The Director, Toxicology Translational Science will serve as a scientific and strategic leader driving team and pipeline development at Tarsus, leveraging expertise in toxicology ...

About the Role The Director, Toxicology Translational Science will serve as a scientific and strategic leader driving team and pipeline development at Tarsus, leveraging expertise in toxicology ...

The Position Evommune is seeking an experienced and highly motivated PhD Toxicologist to join the company as Director, Toxicology. This individual will provide toxicology strategy and executional ...

VP, Toxicology

San Francisco, CA ยท On-site

$310K - $340K/yr

Job Title: VP, Toxicology Position Type: Full Time Company Description: Latigo Biotherapeutics, Inc. is a private, early-stage biotechnology company focused on discovering and developing the next ...

Senior Director, Toxicology POSITION SUMMARY: The Senior Director of Toxicology will be the primary toxicology expert across our pipeline, driving the design, execution, and interpretation of non ...

Senior Director, Toxicology POSITION SUMMARY: The Senior Director of Toxicology will be the primary toxicology expert across our pipeline, driving the design, execution, and interpretation of non ...

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Toxicologist information

See California salary details

$40.5K

$113.9K

$211.2K

How much do toxicologist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for toxicologist in California is $113,859.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $82,900.00 and $133,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a toxicologist do?

A toxicologist is a scientist who studies the effects of chemicals, substances, and environmental agents on living organisms, including humans. They assess the potential risks and health hazards of exposure to toxins and help develop safety standards to protect public health. Toxicologists work in a variety of settings such as laboratories, pharmaceutical companies, government agencies, and research institutions. Their work is crucial in ensuring that products, medications, and environmental practices are safe for people and the environment.

What does a toxicologist do?

Toxicologists work in many industries performing tests on new chemical compounds, tissue samples, body fluids, soil samples, and a variety of other things depending on their field of work. For instance, a forensic toxicologist runs tests on samples gathered during a crime scene investigation or an autopsy and identifies substances that may have affected the body during the crime. All toxicologists carefully record every step of their process.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a toxicologist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Toxicologist, you need a solid background in chemistry, biology, and toxicology, typically supported by a relevant degree (such as a BS or MS in toxicology or related sciences) and often a PhD for advanced roles. Familiarity with laboratory instrumentation, analytical techniques (like mass spectrometry or chromatography), and regulatory compliance systems is crucial. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and strong written and verbal communication skills set outstanding toxicologists apart. These competencies are essential for accurately assessing chemical risks, ensuring safety, and effectively reporting findings to stakeholders.

What are some typical challenges toxicologists face when interpreting test results in a regulatory setting?

Toxicologists often encounter the challenge of interpreting complex data that may not present clear-cut conclusions, especially when translating laboratory results to real-world human or environmental health outcomes. They must account for variables like differing species sensitivity, exposure routes, and potential confounding factors, all while ensuring compliance with strict regulatory guidelines. Collaborative discussions with colleagues in risk assessment, regulatory affairs, and other scientific disciplines are common, as these teams work together to build consensus on safety recommendations. Remaining up to date with evolving testing methodologies and regulatory requirements is also crucial for success in this role.

What is the difference between Toxicologist vs Pharmacologist?

AspectToxicologistPharmacologist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Toxicology, certifications like ASP or SOTBachelor's or Master's in Pharmacology, related certifications
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, research facilities, regulatory agenciesResearch labs, pharmaceutical companies, healthcare settings
Industry UsageEnvironmental safety, public health, regulatory complianceDrug development, clinical research, healthcare

Both toxicologists and pharmacologists work in scientific research and often collaborate in healthcare and regulatory settings. Toxicologists focus on assessing and managing chemical hazards, while pharmacologists study drug effects and mechanisms. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

Are toxicologists in high demand?

Toxicologists are in steady demand due to their expertise in chemical safety, environmental health, and risk assessment. Employment opportunities are available in industries such as pharmaceuticals, government agencies, and environmental consulting, often requiring advanced degrees and certification. Job growth is expected to be steady as regulatory and safety concerns increase globally.

How much do toxicologists make a month?

Toxicologists typically earn between $4,000 and $8,000 per month, depending on experience, education, and location. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced toxicologists with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher salaries. Salaries can also vary based on industry and employer size.

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

The most popular types of Toxicologist jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Toxicologist jobs in California?

For Toxicologist jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Toxicologist jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Toxicologist jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Toxicologist jobs?

Cities in California with the most Toxicologist job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Toxicologist jobs in CA?

For Toxicologist jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Toxicologist job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $113,859 per year, or $54.7 per hour.

Principal Toxicologist (Ph.D.)

Exponent Inc.

Oakland, CA โ€ข On-site

$200K - $300K/yr

Full-time

Retirement

Re-posted 26 days ago


Job description

About Exponent
Exponent is the only premium engineering and scientific consulting firm with the depth and breadth of expertise to solve our clients' most profoundly unique, unprecedented, and urgent challenges.
We are committed to engaging multidisciplinary teams of science, engineering, and regulatory experts to empower our clients with solutions that create a safer, healthier, more sustainable world. For over five decades, we've connected the lessons of past failures with tomorrow's solutions to advise clients as they innovate technologically complex products and processes, ensure the safety and health of their users, and address the challenges of sustainability.
Join our team of experts with degrees from top programs at over 500 universities and extensive experience spanning a variety of industries. At Exponent, you'll contribute to the diverse pool of ideas, talents, backgrounds, and experiences that drive our collaborative teamwork and breakthrough insights. Plus, we help you grow your career through collaboration, our rich client network, and our excellent support staff. Thanks for your interest in joining our team!
Key statistics:
  • 950+ Consultants
  • 640+ Ph.D.s
  • 90+ Disciplines
  • 30+ Offices globally

Our Opportunity
We are currently seeking an experienced consultant for a Principal Toxicologist position in our Health Sciences Practice. This position is open to all U.S. office locations. In this role, you will work as part of a team to provide a high level of leadership and collaboration on projects related to litigation support, toxicological evaluations, risk assessment, and risk communication involving a wide range of products and chemicals. This includes evaluating health hazards, mechanisms of action, dose response, exposure levels, and conducting comparative risk research, utilizing data science tools, assisting with regulatory documents and analyses, and conducting risk assessments under a variety of regulatory and legal paradigms. As a Principal Toxicologist, you will lead projects, identify new clients, expand relationships with existing clients, develop technical staff, and develop new business in related Health Sciences areas, particularly in the areas of product stewardship, toxic tort, and emerging chemicals of concern. You will be instrumental in helping our clients make and support data-driven and scientifically sound decisions to address today's most pressing issues impacting human health safety.
You will be responsible for
  • Leveraging deep knowledge in toxicology to address a wide range of complex human health challenges across diverse client sectors, delivering scientifically rigorous and impactful solutions
  • Identifying, pursuing, and securing new client engagements by understanding emerging needs and building long-term partnerships.
  • Maintaining and growing trusted relationships with existing clients by consistently delivering high-quality work, anticipating future needs, and serving as a strategic advisor.
  • Building, managing, and empowering multidisciplinary teams, fostering a collaborative and inclusive environment that values diverse perspectives and scientific integrity.
  • Providing guidance, coaching, and professional development opportunities to technical staff, supporting their growth into future leaders and experts.
  • Ensuring successful project execution through effective planning, resource allocation, and budget management, while maintaining high standards of quality and timeliness.
  • Offer high-level scientific and strategic advice to both internal stakeholders and external clients, contributing to the firm's thought leadership and client impact.
  • Enhance the firm's visibility and credibility by publishing in peer-reviewed journals, presenting at industry conferences, leading seminars, and participating in expert advisory or technical committees.

You will have the following skills and qualifications
  • PhD in Toxicology or a related scientific field
  • Minimum of 8 years of consulting experience in the toxicology space
  • Proven track record of business generation and attracting new and repeat clients or funding
  • Diplomate of the American Board of Toxicology (DABT)
  • Exceptional verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to articulate complex ideas clearly and persuasively to diverse audiences
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to interpret data, identify trends, and make informed recommendations in your scientific field
  • Outstanding reputation among clients and the scientific community for integrity, responsiveness, and technical expertise
  • Adept people management abilities coupled with extensive experience in successfully overseeing and executing complex projects
  • Strong commitment to professional development

Applicants are encouraged to submit a CV (Curriculum Vitae) with publications (feel free to include publications that are in review or pending) [not restricted to 1 page].
Life @ Exponent
To learn more about life at Exponent and our impact, please visit the following links:
https://www.exponent.com/careers/life-exponent
https://www.exponent.com/company/our-impact
Attracting, inspiring, developing, and rewarding exceptional people with diverse backgrounds and expertise are central to our corporate culture. Our diverse team allows us to provide better value to our clients and enjoy an enriched work environment.
Our firm is committed to offering a variety of programs and resources to support health and well-being. We believe that providing competitive benefits as well as compensation and recognition programs empowers our staff to do work that makes a difference.
Work Environment
At Exponent, we have found that in-person interactions deepen employee engagement and are crucial for development, for realizing the full potential of our talented and diverse teams, and for building a more inclusive workplace where all have a sense of belonging. In our offices, you can expect a supportive culture and a collaborative, dynamic, multi-disciplinary work environment. Our consultants engage in-person in the office unless they are traveling for client work or other business activities.
We value the rich lives our colleagues enjoy outside of work and understand that work/life balance is critical to our employees and their well-being. Consultants have the autonomy to balance their work and personal schedules so you can meet with clients, visit inspection sites, attend conferences, and make time for priorities outside of work, too. It is this flexible, agile work style and working hours that allow our teams to drive innovation and results in their own ways, while meeting the needs of clients. #LI-Onsite
Compensation
Our consultants are rewarded for their technical and business contributions and have an opportunity to plan for future success and career growth. Exponent's total compensation plan is consistent with its expectations of the quality and quantity of work performed and with the professional standards set by Exponent. At the Manager level and above, total compensation includes base salary, annual bonus, and 401(k) employer contribution of 7% of base salary.
The base salary range for this position is depending on experience and capabilities which will be assessed during the interview process.
Salary Range
USD $200,000.00 - USD $300,000.00 /Yr.
Benefits you will enjoy
Access benefits information on our Life@Exponent page: https://www.exponent.com/careers/life-exponent
Exponent is a proud equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other protected status.
If you need assistance or accommodation due to a disability, you may email us at HR-Accommodations@exponent.com.
Job Locations
US-CA-Oakland
US-Washington, DC
US-CA-Irvine
US-CO-Denver
US-NY-New York
US-TX-Austin
US-MA-Natick
US-CA-Oakland
US-CA-Menlo Park
US-WA-Bellevue
US-WA-Seattle