Associate Director, Office of Civil Rights

About the Role

The Associate Director serves as the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation’s (CDCR) highest-level executive responsible for Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) and Sexual Harassment Prevention. Reporting to the Director of the Division of Correctional Policy, Research and Internal Oversight (CPRIO), this position provides statewide leadership for EEO, the Sexual Harassment Prevention Program (SHPP), Diversity, Equity and Inclusion initiatives, department-wide civil rights policy, workforce analysis, strategic planning, executive consultation, civil rights training, and statewide program oversight.

The Associate Director also serves as CDCR’s official EEO representative, reporting directly to the Secretary on EEO matters as required by state law. This role oversees a team that conducts thorough, unbiased investigations into allegations of workplace discrimination or harassment.

The ideal candidate is a collaborative and approachable executive who builds strong relationships across all levels of the organization while developing and mentoring high-performing teams. A leader of integrity, fairness, and professionalism, this individual is respected for making objective decisions and inspiring confidence through transparency, accountability, and consistency.

Responsibilities

• Provide statewide leadership for Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) and the Sexual Harassment Prevention Program (SHPP).
• Oversee Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion initiatives, department-wide civil rights policy, workforce analysis, and strategic planning.
• Serve as CDCR’s official EEO representative, reporting directly to the Secretary on EEO matters as required by state law.
• Oversee a team conducting thorough, unbiased investigations into allegations of workplace discrimination or harassment.
• Provide executive consultation and civil rights training across the department.
• Represent the Department before external agencies, advocacy organizations, and community partners.
• Navigate sensitive and high-profile issues with diplomacy and credibility.
• Develop and mentor high-performing teams while fostering a collaborative work environment.

Qualifications

The successful candidate is an accomplished communicator who thrives in a highly visible environment where decisions have statewide impact. Government experience is desirable but not required; accomplished leaders from other large, complex organizations are encouraged to apply.