PERSONNEL SPECIALIST

About the role

The Personnel Specialist performs a wide range of technical, complex, and sensitive payroll and personnel assignments for the Department of Developmental Services. This role requires sound judgment in resolving personnel problems and issues, performing transactions in personnel systems, and maintaining thorough knowledge of State laws, departmental and control agency rules, and bargaining unit contract provisions.

Effective July 1, 2025, State employees are subject to a salary reduction of three percent in exchange for five hours per month of Personal Leave. This position is eligible for an Annual Recruitment and Retention Pay Differential of 240.

Responsibilities

• Apply State laws, departmental rules, and bargaining unit contract provisions to personnel transactions.
• Resolve personnel problems and issues using independent judgment.
• Perform payroll and personnel transactions with a high level of accuracy and attention to detail.
• Interpret and use reference materials to ensure compliance with regulations.
• Advise employees on their rights and consult with supervisors on alternative actions for transaction situations.
• Gather and analyze data, prepare tables, spreadsheets, and charts.
• Draft correspondence and maintain personnel records.
• Organize and prioritize work while maintaining cooperative working relationships.
• Occasional travel may be required.

Requirements

• Lawful authorization to work in the United States (the Department does not sponsor employment visas).
• Residency in the State of California at the time of appointment (per California Government Code requirements).
• Frequent use of a telephone and computer terminals, with regular contact with employees and the public.
• Ability to work in a hybrid (in-office/telework) position, with potential requirement to report to the office or any designated location at any time. Telework agreements may be modified or cancelled at any time.
• If using list eligibility from an online exam, documentation (e.g., transcripts, degree, license) must be provided to verify meeting Minimum Qualifications (MQs).

Qualifications

• Knowledge of current office methods, procedures, equipment, and basic math principles.
• Ability to think logically, multi-task, and apply laws, rules, and regulations.
• Proficiency in independently interpreting reference materials and following directions.
• Strong communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Experience operating a computer keyboard/terminal and designing spreadsheets, charts, and tables.
• Ability to establish and maintain cooperative working relationships.

Pay

• Salary Ranges (Monthly):
  • Classification A: $4,030.00 - $5,044.00
  • Classification B: $4,632.00 - $5,807.00
  • Classification C: $4,799.00 - $6,008.00
  • Classification D: $5,184.00 - $6,488.00
• New to State candidates will be hired at the minimum salary of the classification or minimum of the alternate range, where applicable.

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance for employees and their families.
• Retirement benefits through CalPERS.
• Additional benefits may be outlined in specific employee collective bargaining contracts.
• For more information, visit the CalHR Benefits Website and CalPERS Health Benefit Summary.

Schedule

• Permanent, full-time position.
• Hybrid work arrangement (in-office/telework), subject to change.
• Work location: Sacramento County.

Work Environment

The Department of Developmental Services is located in a modern, sustainable, and innovative office building at 1215 "O" Street, Sacramento, California. Amenities include:

• First-floor retail space with separate access from 12th Street.
• Café with multiple vendors and outdoor seating for meal breaks.
• Employee fitness center with a yoga studio, cardio equipment, and weights.
• Plaza area with kitchenette on each floor.
• Lactation rooms.