LT Attorney IV (TRS)

The California Department of Social Services (CDSS) Legal Division is recruiting to fill one limited term, full-time Attorney IV position in its Children’s and Community Care Licensing Policy Branch (CAL) to support the Children’s and Family Services Division (CFSD). This is a 12-month limited term position and may be extended to a maximum of 24-months and/or may become permanent based on operational needs.

The CDSS is a large department charged with supervising counties in their administration of all public social services programs in the state. The issues about which CFSD needs legal support are frequently complex, cutting edge, and closely scrutinized by active client advocacy and legal aid organizations, the public, the news media, and various state and federal oversight agencies. The successful candidate must be detail-oriented, able to function under pressure in politically sensitive situations, advise clients of all levels within the Department, meet strict deadlines, and work with the highest degree of autonomy.

The Attorney IV performs the more complicated, politically sensitive, and fiscally significant legal work for the CFSD. The successful candidate will be primarily assigned to provide legal support to the CFSD, Fiscal and Accounting Division, and other teams within CDSS regarding the implementation of the multiple components of the Tiered Rate Structure. The successful candidate must have, or have the ability to acquire, extensive knowledge of child welfare, Title IV-E eligibility, and the impact of 2011 Realignment on child welfare funding in California, among other areas of law and will apply such knowledge to complex and novel issues.

The Attorney IV also provides expert advice and counsel to Departmental executive staff, legislative staff, the Office of the Attorney General, the Health and Human Services Agency, and the Governor’s Office. The Attorney IV must be able to analyze and draft legislation to implement program changes involving a myriad state and federal rules for programs involving large amounts of the state budget. The Attorney IV must know the regulatory process to assist program staff in developing and defending regulations implementing CFSD programs. Experience in working with advocacy groups, legislative staff, and stakeholder workgroups is essential. In addition to other duties, the successful candidate may be required to prepare legal pleadings and represent the Department before the Department of Health Care Services’ Office of Administrative Hearings and Appeals in relation to financial audits of group homes and short-term residential therapeutic programs.

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Need assistance in applying for positions, taking an examination, or interview preparation? Connect with our staff by contacting us at Recruiter@dss.ca.govInformation about applying for a state job can be found here: Three Steps to a State Job.

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You will find additional information about the job in the Duty Statement.

Salary

• $11,993 - $16,096/month

Qualifications

Minimum Requirements
You will find the Minimum Requirements in the Class Specification.

• ATTORNEY IV

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:

• Demonstrated ability to successfully perform in-house counsel work including but not limited to preparing legal opinions, analyzing legislation, drafting and reviewing regulations, preparing and reviewing correspondence, and providing litigation support to the Office of the Attorney General;

• Extensive knowledge, or the ability to quickly acquire knowledge, of state and federal child welfare and foster care law generally, the permanent rate structured established as part of California’s Continuum of Care Reform, and the Tiered Rate Structure.

• Understanding of the Administrative Branch of state government, its agencies and departments and the role of state and federal oversight agencies;

• Demonstrated ability to maintain effective working relationships with colleagues, program staff and management, staff of other state and federal agencies, and client advocacy organizations, while working independently and as part of a team;

• Willing and able to understand CDSS programs and policies in order to provide sound legal advice that is responsive to the organization’s needs;

• Superior analytical and communication skills, both verbal and written, superior interpersonal skills, and tact;

• Superior research skills and work habits and the ability to complete work under deadlines;

• Willingness and ability to perform duties in a customer service-oriented manner; and;

• Willing and able to maintain a work environment free from discrimination or sexual harassment.

Other Information

Additional Documents

• Job Application Package Checklist
• Duty Statement

Department Information

Are you interested in making a difference in the lives of fellow Californians while achieving your career goals? Do you set high standards for yourself and enjoy a collaborative and challenging work environment? The mission of the California Department of Social Services is to serve, protect, and support the people of California experiencing need in ways that empower wellbeing and disrupt systemic inequities. The vision of the California Department of Social Services is to provide quality services with a commitment to an inclusive, diverse, and equitable California where all people can thrive.

The Legal Division’s Children's and Community Care Licensing Policy and Litigation Branch (CAL) is dedicated to providing legal advice and services to the Divisions within the Department who oversee or administer numerous social service programs. The CAL provides complex legal advice and services primarily to the Children and Family Services Division (CFSD). The CFSD oversees multiple programs that serve children and families such as child welfare services, foster care, and a variety of funding programs, almost all of which are subject to federal requirements and are administered by the 58 counties.

CDSS Guiding Principles

Diversity. Equity. Inclusion. Accessibility. Belonging.

We ensure opportunities for everyone to participate in a meaningful way in fulfilling the mission and vision of CDSS.

Community Engagement

We prioritize the lived experiences of community members as a driving force behind the creation, implementation, desired impact, or change of programs and services.

Empowerment

We engage, operate, and advocate from the understanding that each community and person has desires and capabilities to lead in their own life.

Quality Services

We provide services that align intent and impact by ensuring that they are accessible, community driven, interconnected, and continuously improved.

Data Defined Outcomes

We equitably collect and analyze data, take data-driven action, and measure outcomes relevant to those we serve, ensuring transparency and accountability.

Special Requirements

• The position(s) require(s) a Background Investigation be cleared prior to being hired.

Do not include any confidential information on any documents (i.e., application, resume, or transcripts) you submit for this job vacancy. Confidential information that should be excluded or removed from these documents include but is not limited to: Social Security Number (SSN), birthday and/or age, photos, student/other ID number, driver’s license number (unless required), basis of eligibility, exam results, LEAP status, and marital status. Confidential information submitted via a CalCareer Account (electronic application) is automatically redacted upon submission.

A SUMMARY OF QUALIFICATIONS (SOQ), not to exceed four pages, that describes how the applicant’s education, training, experience, and skills meet the job description, duty statement for the position, and DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS identified in this job announcement. The SOQ must also describe the applicant’s knowledge of, or ability to acquire knowledge of, state and/or federal child welfare law, with an emphasis on foster care rates. The SOQ also serves as documentation of your ability to present information clearly and concisely in writing, since this is a critical factor to successful job performance. Applications without eligibility information and a SOQ may not be considered.

Selected candidate will be subject to a criminal record background check clearance by the Department of Justice and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

This position is designated under the Conflict-of-Interest Code.

Applications will be accepted from current members of the California State Bar who have current list eligibility for appointment to the Attorney IV level, who have SROA/Surplus eligibility, or who have reinstatement rights to this level. All applications will be screened and the most qualified individuals will be invited to interview.

You are required to complete employment history on the application form (STD 678). You may be disqualified from the hiring and selection process if the employment history is inaccurate or incomplete. Resumes will not take the place of employment history.

Training and Development assignments may be considered based on the availability of eligible candidates and are subject to approval by the Hiring Authority prior to appointment. Training and Development assignments are temporary in nature and shall not exceed twenty-four (24) months.

Candidates who reside outside of the State of California may be admitted to the job interview, but they must provide proof of residence in California prior to being eligible for appointment.

Application Instructions

Completed applications and all required documents must be received or postmarked by the Final Filing Date in order to be considered. Dates printed on Mobile Bar Codes, such as the Quick Response (QR) Codes available at the USPS, are not considered Postmark dates for the purpose of determining timely filing of an application.

Final Filing Date: 8/14/2025

Who May Apply

Individuals who are currently in the classification, eligible for lateral transfer, eligible for reinstatement, have list or LEAP eligibility, are in the process of obtaining list eligibility, or have SROA and/or Surplus eligibility (please attach your letter, if available). SROA and Surplus candidates are given priority; therefore, individuals with other eligibility may be considered in the event no SROA or Surplus candidates apply.

Applications will be screened and only the most qualified applicants will be selected to move forward in the selection process.Applicants must meet the Minimum Qualifications stated in the Classification Specification(s).

How to Apply

Complete Application Packages (including your Examination/Employment Application (STD 678) and applicable or required documents) must be submitted to apply for this Job Posting. Application Packages may be submitted electronically through your CalCareer Account at www.CalCareers.ca.gov. When submitting your application in hard copy, a completed copy of the Application Package listing must be included. If you choose to not apply electronically, a hard copy application package may be submitted through an alternative method listed below:

Address for Mailing Application Packages

You may submit your application and any applicable or required documents to:

Department of Social Services
California Department of Social Services
Attn: Classification and Pay
P.O.Box 944243
Sacramento, CA 94244-2430

Address for Drop-Off Application Packages

You may drop off your application and any applicable or required documents at:

Department of Social Services
California Department of Social Services
Classification and Pay
744 P Street, MS 8-15-58
Sacramento, CA 95814
08:00 AM - 05:00 PM

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 www.CalCareers.ca.gov. 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 optional. It may be included, but is not required.
• Statement of Qualifications - Please see the Special Requirements section of this job advertisement for detailed instructions for the SOQ submission.

Applicants requiring reasonable accommodations for the hiring interview process must request the necessary accommodations if scheduled for a hiring interview. The request should be made at the time of contact to schedule the interview. Questions regarding reasonable accommodations may be directed to the EEO contact listed on this job posting.

Working Conditions

This work location is very convenient! The CDSS is located two blocks from the light rail and public transportation: within walking distance of the State Capitol, parks, restaurants, farmers’ markets and the Golden 1 Arena. Our building has easy access to I-5, Highway 50, and Highway 80.

The Legal Division uses a hybrid telework model to provide all employees with an avenue to telework while ensuring business and operational needs are met. Except when required to report to the office, this position allows for telework at an alternative work location. An alternative work location would be the successful applicant’s residence. For travel purposes, reimbursement would be based on the assigned office location.

This position is eligible for hybrid work in accordance with the Governor’s Executive Order N-22-25and at the sole discretion of the Department of Social Services under California Government Code Section 14200. All telework schedules are subject to change and may be re-evaluated at any time. The incumbent will be expected to report for in office work and attend work related in-person events as deemed operationally necessary. Telework does not change the terms and conditions of employment, the essential functions of job duties, or required compliance with the CDSS policies. Headquarter location may be designated on the selected candidate's primary residence location, and/or the closest CDSS location in accordance with operational need and available space. The successful candidate must reside in California upon appointment.

Contact Information

The Hiring Unit Contact is available to answer questions regarding the position or application process.

Hiring Unit Contact:
Tuyen Nguyen
(916) 639-8603
Tuyen.Nguyen@dss.ca.gov

Please direct requests for Reasonable Accommodations to the interview scheduler at the time the interview is being scheduled. You may direct any additional questions regarding Reasonable Accommodations or Equal Employment Opportunity for this position(s) to the Department's EEO Office.

EEO Contact:
EEO Office
(916) 657-2326
EEOoffice@dss.ca.gov

California Relay Service: 1-800-735-2929 (TTY), 1-800-735-2922 (Voice) TTY is a Telecommunications Device for the Deaf, and is reachable only from phones equipped with a TTY Device.

Equal Opportunity Employer

The State of California is an equal opportunity employer to all, regardless of age, ancestry, color, disability (mental and physical), exercising the right to family care and medical leave, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, marital status, medical condition, military or veteran status, national origin, political affiliation, race, religious creed, sex (includes pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding and related medical conditions), and sexual orientation.

It is an objective of the State of California to achieve a drug-free work place. Any applicant for state employment will be expected to behave in accordance with this objective because the use of illegal drugs is inconsistent with the law of the State, the rules governing Civil Service, and the special trust placed in public servants.

California Relay Service: 1-800-735-2929 (TTY), 1-800-735-2922 (Voice) TTY is a Telecommunications Device for the Deaf, and is reachable only from phones equipped with a TTY Device. Benefits

There are many benefits to joining our team! The State of California has a generous benefits package that includes medical coverage, CalPERS pension upon retirement, two weeks paid vacation per year, two weeks paid sick leave per year, two paid Professional Development Days, one paid Personal Holiday, pre-tax parking fee program.

TRANSPORTATION REIMBURSEMENT

• Public transit (mass transit) passes.
  • 100 percent discount on public transit passes sold by state agencies, up to the monthly exclusion amount provided by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).
  • 100 percent reimbursement on public transit passes purchased by state employees, up to the monthly exclusion amount provided by the IRS.
• Vanpool drivers and riders
  • 100 percent reimbursement on the monthly fee, up to the monthly exclusion amount provided by the IRS.

Click here to view all the attractive benefits available to state employees!

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