State of California
The California Department of Social Services (CDSS) Legal Division is recruiting to fill one permanent full-time Legal Secretary position in the Legal Operations Branch (LOB). The position is located in the Sacramento Headquarters office and reports to a Staff Services Manager I in the Legal, Policy, and Program Services Unit (LPPSU). This position is eligible for a hybrid (remote telework and in-office) work schedule.
Consider joining our team in LOB, where we foster a spirit of collaboration, professional development, and personal excellence as we carry out the important work of the Division and Department.
The Legal Secretary is often the first point of contact for the Branch and interacts with all levels of staff and every division within the Department. They are an integral member of the LOB team, and their work is critical to the team's overall success.
The Legal Secretary will provide direct support to the Family and Adult Programs Policy and Litigation Branch (FAB) and the Children's and Community Care Licensing and Litigation Branch (CAL). They will maintain the calendar and schedule for FAB and CAL management and attorneys and be responsible for processing and filing legal documents in multiple jurisdictions. They will also provide support to legal analysts and attorneys with hearing preparation. Additional duties include typing, formatting, proofreading, and processing a wide variety of legal documents. This position also requires experience with electronic databases for the purpose of logging and tracking assignments.
If you would like to share how you learned about this career opportunity, please take a moment to complete our brief Recruitment Survey . Need help with applying for positions, taking an examination, or preparing for interviews? Our team is here to support you, reach out anytime at Recruiter@dss.ca.gov For guidance on applying for a state job, visit Three Steps to a State Job .
Follow us on LinkedIn to stay up to date on our latest opportunities.
You will find additional information about the job in the Duty Statement .
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.
This position is eligible for hybrid work in accordance with the Governor's Executive Order N-22-25 and 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. For positions advertised in more than one location, 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.
Minimum Requirements
You will find the Minimum Requirements in the Class Specification. LEGAL SECRETARY Additional Documents
Job Application Package Checklist Duty Statement
Position Details
Job Code #: JC-491508
Position #(s): 800-310-1282-009
Working Title: Legal Secretary
Classification: LEGAL SECRETARY $4,371.00 - $5,473.00 A $4,591.00 - $5,748.00 B New to State candidates will be hired into the minimum salary of the classification or minimum of alternate range when applicable.
# of Positions: 1
Work Location: Sacramento County
Telework: Hybrid
Job Type: Permanent, Full Time
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 California Department of Social Services (CDSS) serves, aids and protects needy and vulnerable children and adults in ways that strengthen and preserve families, encourage personal responsibility and foster independence. CDSS employees are our most important resource in serving California's needy and vulnerable children and families.
CDSS CULTURE
CDSS' goal is to foster a culture that values diversity, equity, and inclusion within our Department, that actively invites the contribution and participation of all people, and is representative of the varied identities and different perspectives in California. In our role as public administrators, our charge is to ensure that our programs and our workplaces provide all Californians the opportunity to thrive.
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. The position(s) require(s) a(n) Typing Certificate Certificate. You will be required to provide a copy of your certificate 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.
Interested applicants MUST submit the following application materials:
STD. 678 job application and a one page (Arial 12-point type), STATEMENT OF QUALIFICATIONS (SOQ). The SOQ will serve as documentation of your ability to present information clearly and concisely in writing. Applications submitted without required documents may not be considered.
STATEMENT OF QUALIFICATIONS
Provide a narrative discussion of how your education, training, experience, and skills meet the desirable qualifications and duty statement for the position.
The selected candidate will be subject to a criminal records background check clearance by the Department of Justice and the Federal Bureau of Investigations. A criminal conviction or history does not in and of itself preclude employment.
A current typing certificate (issued within the past four years) verifying typing speed of a minimum of 45 wpm is required for this position.
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.
If you are meeting minimum qualifications with education, you must include your unofficial transcripts for verification. If selected, you may be required to provide official transcripts at the time of hire.
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: 9/19/2025 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.
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:
• Ability to learn legal terminology, concepts, and technical legal terms. • Strong proofreading, editing, and organizational skills. • Proficient in written and verbal communication with the public and all levels of staff. • Experience using databases to log and track data. • Demonstrate initiative and willingness to assume increased responsibility. • Experience with both correspondence and Style Guide manuals. • Use of tact and discretion in dealing with confidential and sensitive matters. • Ability to multitask, collaborate, and exhibit flexibility.
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.
Contact Information The Hiring Unit Contact is available to answer questions regarding the position or application process. Hiring Unit Contact: Mariel Balbuena (916) 796-8491 mariel.balbuena@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.
Personal Leave Program (PLP) 2025
Personal Leave Program (PLP) 2025 - Salaries do not reflect reductions from the Personal Leave Program, please see the applicable Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for additional information on the length and percentage of reductions.
Examination Information Those interested in obtaining employment with any state agency must apply and compete through the state hiring and recruitment process.
To apply for the examination for this position, click on the link below to search for the examination and follow the "How to Apply" instructions in the examination announcement:
CalCareers Exam/Assessment Search
Successful examination applicants are placed on an eligibility list. If you already have list eligibility for this classification, you do not need to retake the examination. Applicants should refer to their examination results or check their CalCareer account for specific list eligibility expiration dates and to re-take the examination when necessary. For questions regarding the examination process, please contact the Examination Unit at: Examinations@dss.ca.gov .
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.
Consider joining our team in LOB, where we foster a spirit of collaboration, professional development, and personal excellence as we carry out the important work of the Division and Department.
The Legal Secretary is often the first point of contact for the Branch and interacts with all levels of staff and every division within the Department. They are an integral member of the LOB team, and their work is critical to the team's overall success.
The Legal Secretary will provide direct support to the Family and Adult Programs Policy and Litigation Branch (FAB) and the Children's and Community Care Licensing and Litigation Branch (CAL). They will maintain the calendar and schedule for FAB and CAL management and attorneys and be responsible for processing and filing legal documents in multiple jurisdictions. They will also provide support to legal analysts and attorneys with hearing preparation. Additional duties include typing, formatting, proofreading, and processing a wide variety of legal documents. This position also requires experience with electronic databases for the purpose of logging and tracking assignments.
If you would like to share how you learned about this career opportunity, please take a moment to complete our brief Recruitment Survey . Need help with applying for positions, taking an examination, or preparing for interviews? Our team is here to support you, reach out anytime at Recruiter@dss.ca.gov For guidance on applying for a state job, visit Three Steps to a State Job .
Follow us on LinkedIn to stay up to date on our latest opportunities.
You will find additional information about the job in the Duty Statement .
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.
This position is eligible for hybrid work in accordance with the Governor's Executive Order N-22-25 and 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. For positions advertised in more than one location, 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.
Minimum Requirements
You will find the Minimum Requirements in the Class Specification. LEGAL SECRETARY Additional Documents
Job Application Package Checklist Duty Statement
Position Details
Job Code #: JC-491508
Position #(s): 800-310-1282-009
Working Title: Legal Secretary
Classification: LEGAL SECRETARY $4,371.00 - $5,473.00 A $4,591.00 - $5,748.00 B New to State candidates will be hired into the minimum salary of the classification or minimum of alternate range when applicable.
# of Positions: 1
Work Location: Sacramento County
Telework: Hybrid
Job Type: Permanent, Full Time
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 California Department of Social Services (CDSS) serves, aids and protects needy and vulnerable children and adults in ways that strengthen and preserve families, encourage personal responsibility and foster independence. CDSS employees are our most important resource in serving California's needy and vulnerable children and families.
CDSS CULTURE
CDSS' goal is to foster a culture that values diversity, equity, and inclusion within our Department, that actively invites the contribution and participation of all people, and is representative of the varied identities and different perspectives in California. In our role as public administrators, our charge is to ensure that our programs and our workplaces provide all Californians the opportunity to thrive.
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. The position(s) require(s) a(n) Typing Certificate Certificate. You will be required to provide a copy of your certificate 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.
Interested applicants MUST submit the following application materials:
STD. 678 job application and a one page (Arial 12-point type), STATEMENT OF QUALIFICATIONS (SOQ). The SOQ will serve as documentation of your ability to present information clearly and concisely in writing. Applications submitted without required documents may not be considered.
STATEMENT OF QUALIFICATIONS
Provide a narrative discussion of how your education, training, experience, and skills meet the desirable qualifications and duty statement for the position.
The selected candidate will be subject to a criminal records background check clearance by the Department of Justice and the Federal Bureau of Investigations. A criminal conviction or history does not in and of itself preclude employment.
A current typing certificate (issued within the past four years) verifying typing speed of a minimum of 45 wpm is required for this position.
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.
If you are meeting minimum qualifications with education, you must include your unofficial transcripts for verification. If selected, you may be required to provide official transcripts at the time of hire.
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: 9/19/2025 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.
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:
• Ability to learn legal terminology, concepts, and technical legal terms. • Strong proofreading, editing, and organizational skills. • Proficient in written and verbal communication with the public and all levels of staff. • Experience using databases to log and track data. • Demonstrate initiative and willingness to assume increased responsibility. • Experience with both correspondence and Style Guide manuals. • Use of tact and discretion in dealing with confidential and sensitive matters. • Ability to multitask, collaborate, and exhibit flexibility.
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.
Contact Information The Hiring Unit Contact is available to answer questions regarding the position or application process. Hiring Unit Contact: Mariel Balbuena (916) 796-8491 mariel.balbuena@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.
Personal Leave Program (PLP) 2025
Personal Leave Program (PLP) 2025 - Salaries do not reflect reductions from the Personal Leave Program, please see the applicable Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for additional information on the length and percentage of reductions.
Examination Information Those interested in obtaining employment with any state agency must apply and compete through the state hiring and recruitment process.
To apply for the examination for this position, click on the link below to search for the examination and follow the "How to Apply" instructions in the examination announcement:
CalCareers Exam/Assessment Search
Successful examination applicants are placed on an eligibility list. If you already have list eligibility for this classification, you do not need to retake the examination. Applicants should refer to their examination results or check their CalCareer account for specific list eligibility expiration dates and to re-take the examination when necessary. For questions regarding the examination process, please contact the Examination Unit at: Examinations@dss.ca.gov .
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.