Human Resources Personnel Program Manager

This position may be eligible for a telework opportunity in accordance with departmental policies and operational needs. Beginning July 1, 2026, employees will be required to work in-person at least four (4) days per week. Additional in-office days may be required based on operational needs. The office is located at 1810 16th Street, Sacramento.

About the Role

The California Department of Human Resources (CalHR) is the pillar of human resources management for all state employees. This role is ideal for someone passionate about HR, leadership, and improving civil service HR systems. As a leader in the Personnel Management Division (PMD), you will oversee the day-to-day administrative activities of a team of personnel professionals, provide classification and compensation policy guidance to departments and agencies, and address complex statewide personnel management issues in collaboration with other managers and stakeholders.

This position is distinguished by its complexity and sensitivity, involving Exempt and Career Executive Assignment (CEA) appointments in a Control Agency setting. Under the general direction of the Assistant Division Chief (CEA), the incumbent will:

• Manage the day-to-day activities of a team of personnel professionals within the division.
• Serve as a point of contact with the Governor's Office on Exempt appointments and Executive salaries.
• Act as the primary contact for the CEA salary program.
• Serve as an assistant Secretary for the California Citizens Compensation Commission.
• Provide high-level management advice and determinations to the Governor's Office and Executives in State service.

Requirements

Minimum requirements are outlined in the Class Specification for the Personnel Program Manager II (Manager II) classification.

All interested applicants must submit a Statement of Qualifications (SOQ) addressing the following:

• Describe your breadth of experience and expertise in guiding staff and stakeholders at all levels, interpreting personnel laws, and dealing with complex personnel management matters. Include specific examples demonstrating your knowledge and expertise.
• Describe your experience building highly effective and service-oriented teams, including techniques for organizing (project/program management) and motivating staff.
• Describe your experience and philosophy on creating and strengthening partnerships and working relationships with diverse stakeholders.

SOQs must be limited to a maximum of two (2) pages, single-spaced, in twelve-point Arial font. Applicants must number and include the full text of the SOQ items in their response. Failure to follow these instructions may result in disqualification.

Qualifications

In addition to the minimum requirements, the following qualifications will be used to evaluate candidates:

• Strong leadership experience in managing and coaching a team, including managers, providing clear direction, supporting their work and growth, and successfully administering human resources programs.
• Personnel management experience in either a control agency setting or a line department, with familiarity in classification and pay principles, salary setting, and requirements of the Dills Act.
• Strong change management, project management, and organizational skills, with the ability to plan, develop, implement, and track program outcomes to meet strategic goals.
• Ability to work under pressure, handle multiple competing priorities, and meet deadlines.
• Ability to analyze complex program and operational issues, make sound recommendations, and present them to upper management and stakeholders for input and buy-in.

Pay

Classification: Personnel Program Manager II (Manager II)

Monthly Salary Range: $9,572.00 - $10,867.00

New to State candidates will be hired into the minimum salary of the classification or minimum of alternate range when applicable.

Benefits

CalHR employees are excluded from bargaining and are eligible for enhanced benefits, including:

• CoBen benefit allowance.
• Employer-paid life insurance.
• Additional vacation/annual leave.
• Exemption from State Disability Insurance payroll withholding.