CPHS Administrator

Job Description and Duties

The Committee for the Protection of Human Subjects (CPHS) was created in 1976 in response to federal requirements, 45 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) 46, to establish an institutional review board (IRB) for the California Health and Human Services (CHHS) Agency. The purpose of the IRB is to ensure the protection of human subjects involved in research projects within Agency's jurisdiction. Additionally, CPHS reviews the disclosures of personally identifiable data for research purposes per the California Information Practices Act Civil Code 1798.24(t).

The CPHS Administrator manages the day-to-day operations of the Committee for the Protection of Human Subjects (CPHS), ensuring compliance of policies and procedures with relevant federal and state regulations. The CPHS Administrator providing subject matter expertise to researchers, management, and leadership on state and federal regulations related to research, addressing non-compliance issues, and serving as the primary liaison between CPHS members and internal and external researchers, CalHHS officials, the Federal Drug Administration, and the U.S. Office of Human Subject Protection. Additionally, the CPHS Administrator supervises the CPHS Admin team, collaborates with CalHHS Departments and other Agencies to ensure streamlined review workflows, and manages preparations for full board meetings.

You will find additional information about the job in the .

Working Conditions

This position provides telework opportunities, including the ability to work remotely.

Desirable Qualifications

In addition to evaluating each candidate's relative ability, as demonstrated by quality and breadth of experience, the following factors will provide the basis for competitively evaluating each candidate:

1.Thorough knowledge of human subjects research regulations, including the federal Common Rule (45 CFR 46), FDA regulations (21 CFR 50), HIPAA, and California-specific laws such as the Information Practices Act and Bagley-Keene Open Meeting Act.

2. Demonstrated experience supervising analytical or administrative staff, including setting priorities, assigning work, and evaluating performance in a research or regulatory environment.

3. Experience administering or supporting an Institutional Review Board (IRB) or similar oversight body, including managing research protocol submissions and ensuring regulatory compliance.

4. Strong analytical skills, with the ability to interpret and apply complex federal and state laws, regulations, and policies related to research ethics, privacy, and data protection.

5. Proven ability to develop and implement standard operating procedures (SOPs) and internal policies to support regulatory compliance and operational efficiency.

6. Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including experience drafting official correspondence, policy documents, and public-facing materials.

7. Experience providing technical guidance and training to staff, researchers, and board members on research compliance, IRB procedures, and regulatory requirements.

8. Proficiency in managing electronic research protocol systems and collaborating with IT or vendors to support system improvements and user training.

9. Strong organizational and project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities, meet deadlines, and coordinate across departments.

10. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with internal and external stakeholders, including researchers, legal counsel, department leadership, and the public.

Benefits

Benefit information can be found on the CalHR website and the CalPERS website.

Additional Information

This position is designated as required to file a Statement of Economic Interest (Form 700) under the California Health and Human Services Agency Conflict of Interest Code. The position is responsible for the making, participating in the making, or using his or her official position to influence the making of governmental decisions that may potentially have a material effect on his or her personal financial interests. The appointee is required to complete a Form 700 within 30 days after his or her appointment. Failure to comply with the Conflict of Interest Code requirements may void the appointment.

Required Application Package Documents

The following items are required to be submitted with your application. Applicants who do not submit the required items timely may not be considered for this job:

• Current version of the State Examination/Employment Application STD Form 678 (when not applying electronically), or the Electronic State Employment Application through your Applicant Account at All Experience and Education relating to the Minimum Qualifications listed on the Classification Specification should be included to demonstrate how you meet the Minimum Qualifications for the position.
• Resume is required and must be included.
• Supplemental Application -

  In two (2) pages or less:
  1. Describe your experience working with Institutional Review Boards (IRBs) or similar regulatory bodies.

  Include your role, the types of research reviewed, and how you ensured compliance with applicable laws and regulations.

  2. This position requires knowledge of federal and state laws related to human subjects research.

  Please describe your familiarity with any of the following: (a) 45 CFR 46 (Common Rule), (b) HIPAA, (c) FDA 21 CFR 50, (d) California Information Practices Act, (e) Bagley-Keene Open Meeting Act

  3. Provide an example of how you communicated complex regulatory or technical information to a non-technical audience. Explain the context, your communication strategy, and the result.