The Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) Safer Consumer Products Program is seeking two motivated undergraduate student assistants to support the implementation of Safer Consumer Product Regulations. Working under the guidance of a Senior Environmental Scientist (Supervisory), students will assist with scientific research, data analysis, literature evaluation, and content development to support safer chemical use in consumer products.

Position Details

• Job Type: Part-Time / Temporary / Non-benefited

• Work Type: Remote (California only)

• Employer: University Enterprises, Inc. (UEI)

• Location Requirement: Must live and work within California

• Hours:

  • Up to 24 hours/week during academic terms

  • Up to 40 hours/week during breaks

  • Workdays between Monday–Friday, 8 AM – 5 PM (flexible schedule)

About the Role

This position supports DTSC in:

• Reviewing and evaluating scientific literature

• Using databases, models, research software, and analytical tools

• Maintaining data repositories

• Preparing presentations, reports, and public-facing content

• Assisting with administrative tasks

Duties & Responsibilities

• Research chemicals in consumer products and safer alternatives

• Analyze, evaluate, and summarize scientific studies

• Utilize scientific databases and modeling tools

• Manage and maintain database content

• Prepare reports, findings, and presentations

• Support development of educational and engagement materials

• Perform general administrative functions

Minimum Qualifications

• Must be currently enrolled at an accredited college or university on the UEI affiliation list

  • Undergraduates: minimum 6 semester or 9 quarter units

  • Graduate students: minimum 4 semester or 6 quarter units

• Major must match the position fields of study

• Strong verbal and written communication

• Ability to work independently and collaboratively

• Strong organization, accuracy, and deadline management

• Must pass required pre-employment checks

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with scientific literature review or research

• Familiarity with online research resources

• Ability to analyze and manage scientific data

• Experience preparing technical reports

• Knowledge of data science methods (e.g., data mining, programming, informatics)

• Ability to communicate scientific concepts to non-scientists

• Applicants with the following backgrounds are encouraged and may receive priority consideration:

  • Former or current foster youth

  • Homeless youth

  • Formerly incarcerated youth

(Documentation required if claiming priority status.)

Eligible Majors

• Biochemistry & Molecular Biology

• Biological Science

• Chemistry

• Chemical Engineering

• Environmental Science

• Natural Sciences

Work Environment

• Remote work following UEI remote workplace policies

• May require using standard office equipment such as:

  • Computers

  • Printers & scanners

  • Phones and digital communication tools

• Extended sitting and computer use required

• Work-from-home arrangement may be modified or revoked at any time

Application Instructions

Applicants must complete the UEI Employment Application and include:

Required Uploads

• Resume

• Unofficial transcripts

• Supplemental Question Response (2 pages max):
  Describe why you are interested in this position and what makes you a strong candidate.

Important Notes

• UEI employees can only hold one UEI job at a time

• Employment is at-will for both employer and employee

Take your first step toward hands-on environmental research experience—Apply today!