General Counsel

The California Student Aid Commission is seeking a highly skilled General Counsel to provide top-level legal oversight, strategic direction, and expert guidance in support of our mission to deliver financial aid to 2.2 million students each year. In this executive role, the General Counsel advises the Executive Director, Commission members, and senior leadership on complex legal matters; leads strategic litigation planning; and oversees the development and management of legal policies, regulations, and compliance activities. The position also represents the Commission in legal proceedings, provides counsel on legislation and personnel matters, oversees audits and regulatory processes, and ensures effective implementation of state and federal laws across the agency.

Effective July 1, 2025, the California Department of Human Resources (CalHR) implemented the Personal Leave Program (PLP) 2025 and related Pay Differential 386. PLP 2025 requires employees to receive a reduction in pay in exchange for monthly hours of PLP 2025 leave credits. The salary range(s) included on this job posting does not reflect the reduction in pay. For more information, visit the CalHR website ( ).

Recruitment Webinar
Date: Tuesday, July 14, 2026

Time: 12:00pm - 1:00pm

Registration link:

Description : The California Student Aid Commission is seeking a highly skilled General Counsel to provide top-level legal oversight, strategic direction, and expert guidance in support of our mission to deliver financial aid to 2.2 million students each year. In this executive role, the General Counsel advises the Executive Director, Commission members, and senior leadership on complex legal matters; leads strategic litigation planning; and oversees the development and management of legal policies, regulations, and compliance activities. The position also represents the Commission in legal proceedings, provides counsel on legislation and personnel matters, oversees audits and regulatory processes, and ensures effective implementation of state and federal laws across the agency. Please join us to find out more about this exciting opportunity!


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

Working Conditions

• Exposure to computer screens and other basic office equipment.

• Work in a climate-controlled office environment, open office space with artifical lighting.

• Attend meetings in designated conference rooms and be willing to travel to off-site locations.

• Capability to work remotely.

• This position is presently headquartered at: 11120 International Drive, Suite 100 Rancho Cordova, CA 95670. This position may also be expected to report to the Downtown Sacramento location at 1102 Q Street, Suite 3150, Sacramento, CA 95811.

• This position will be a hybrid position allowing the selected candidate the opportunity to work both in the office and from home. The selected candidate will be subject to being present at in-person hearings and meetings with the legislature. The amount of telework is at the discretion of the Department and based on the CSAC's current telework policy. While the CSAC supports telework, in-person attendance may be required based on operational needs. Employees are expected to be able to report to their worksite with minimal notification if an urgent need arises, as determined by the Department. The selected candidate may be required to conduct business travel on behalf of the Department or commute to the headquarters location. Business travel reimbursements consider an employee's designated Headquarters Location, primary residence, and may be subject to the California Department of Human Resources regulations or applicable bargaining unit contract provisions. All commute expenses to the headquartered location will be the responsibility of the selected candidate.

Minimum Requirements This position does not have a Classification Specification. Requirements and qualifications for this position can be found in this announcement. For additional questions, please contact the hiring department listed below.

• C. E. A.

Additional Documents

• Job Application Package Checklist
• Duty Statement

Position Details Job Code #:
JC-521882


Position #(s):
View phone number on click.appcast.io-XXX

Working Title:
General Counsel


Classification:
C. E. A. $12,131.00 - $18,000.00 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:
Career Executive Assignment - Non Tenured, Full Time


Department Information The California Student Aid Commission (CSAC), is the principal state agency responsible for administering financial aid programs for students attending public and private universities, colleges, and vocational schools in California. Our mission is to promote education equity by making postsecondary education affordable for all Californians. By joining us, you become part of a passionate and driven organization dedicated to its mission where all areas across the organization are aligned with the common goal of developing technical and analytical skills and leadership abilities, through promoting teamwork and cross-functional teams.

The Legal Division is responsible for providing legal services and support to the Commission, the Executive Director, Chief Deputy Director, CSAC administrators and designated staff. Legal counsel is also charged with taking the initiative to respond to emerging legal issues. The Legal Division's responsibility includes legal guidance and representation on all legal matters relating to the Commission and its programs, including undocumented student issues, use of AI technology, data exchange matters, information security and redesigning Commission administered programs and services.


Department Website:


Special Requirements

• The position(s) require(s) a(n) Active Membership in the California State Bar. License. You will be required to provide a copy of your license prior to being hired.

Examination Information

A minimum rating of 70% must be attained to obtain list eligibility. Hiring interviews may be conducted with the most qualified candidates. All candidates will receive written notification of their examination results. The result of this examination will be used to fill the position of General Counsel, Legal Division with the CALIFORNIA STUDENT AID COMMISSION .

The results of this examination will only be used to fill this position.

Applicants who fail to submit all components of the exam documents as described below and in this exam bulletin, may be eliminated from the exam process.


The exam will consist of a review of each candidate's application, résumé, and Statement of Qualifications (SOQ), and is weighted 100%. The SOQ must identify the applicant's experience, education, certification, and training in their response to each of the below "Desirable Qualifications". The SOQ serves as documentation in responding to the Desirable Qualifications.

The SOQ must be typed and no more than four (4) pages in length, 12-point font, single spaced, on 8 ½"X11" paper. Each answer should address each of the desirable qualifications, numbered separately for each bulleted item. Responses must be complete, specific, clear, and concise. Please clearly title your documents as the "Statement of Qualifications". Résumés and/or cover letters do not take the place of the SOQ.


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: 8/16/2026
Who May Apply
Individuals who are eligible to be appointed to this Career Executive Assignment (CEA) by the State of California.


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 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:


CA Student Aid Commission
Human Resources Office (USPS)
Attn: HR Office
P.O. Box 419027


Rancho Cordova , CA 95741


Address for Drop-Off Application Packages


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


CA Student Aid Commission
Human Resources Office (DO)
Recruitment
11120 International Drive, Suite 100


Rancho Cordova , CA 95670


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 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 required and must be included.
• Statement of Qualifications - A Statement of Qualifications (SOQ) is required and must be submitted with your application package. Please refer to the "Special Requirements" Section for instructions.

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.


Examination Qualification Requirements All applicants must possess the knowledge and abilities, and any other requirements, described in this announcement.


Note: Eligibility to take a CEA examination does not require current permanent status in the civil service.


Minimum Qualifications


All applicants must possess the knowledge and abilities, and any other requirements described in this bulletin.

NOTE: Eligibility to take a CEA examination does not require permanent status in the civil service.

You may view general CEA information at: Career Executive Assignments - CalHR


General Qualifications
State civil service employees must possess essential general qualifications including integrity, initiative, dependability, good judgment, and ability to work cooperatively with others.

Knowledge and Abilities
Applicants must demonstrate the ability to perform high administrative and policy - influencing functions effectively. Such overall ability requires possession of most of the following more specific knowledge and abilities:


Applicants must demonstrate the ability to perform high-level administrative and policy functions effectively. Such overall ability requires possession of most of the following more specific knowledge and abilities:

• Knowledge of the organization and functions of California State Government including the organization and practices of the Legislature and the Executive Branch; principles, practices, and trends of public administration, organization, and management; techniques of organizing and motivating groups; program development and evaluation; methods of administrative problem solving; principles and practices of policy formulation and development; and personnel management techniques; the department's or agency's Equal Employment Opportunity Program objectives; and a manager's role in the Equal Employment Opportunity Program.
• Ability to plan, organize, and direct the work of multidisciplinary professional and administrative staff; analyze administrative policies, organization, procedures and practices; integrate the activities of a diverse program to attain common goals; gain the confidence and support of top level administrators and advise them on a wide range of administrative matters; develop cooperative working relationships with representatives of all levels of government, the public, and the Legislature and Executive branches; analyze complex problems and recommend effective courses of action; and prepare and review reports; and effectively contribute to the department's or agency's Equal Employment Opportunity objectives.

These knowledge and abilities are expected to be obtained from the following kinds of experience with substantial participation in the formulation, operation and/or evaluation of program policies (experience may have been paid or volunteer; in State service, other government settings, or in a private organization):


CEA Level A - Responsible for broad administrative and program activities, including the execution and/or evaluation of program policies.


CEA Level B - Responsible for extensive managerial and program administration or broad program manager experience with substantial participation in the formulation, operation, and/or evaluation of program policies.


CEA Level C - Responsible for extensive highly professional influence and contributes to program, policy, and the methods to provide professional services needed to set policies, to meet the mission of the State department and often exercising technical and or professional skills that are required at this level.


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:

• Experience interpreting and applying the California Education Code in complex or sensitive situations. Include a specific example where your analysis informed policy, operational decisions, or risk mitigation at an organizational level.
• Experience ensuring organizational compliance with federal and state laws, particularly those affecting public agencies or education-focused entities. Highlight one matter where you provided critical legal guidance that influenced organizational strategy or prevented potential liability.
• Experience advising on the Bagley-Keene Open Meeting Act or other public transparency laws. Provide an example of how you guided an organization in navigating open meeting requirements, agenda preparation, or compliance challenges.
• Experience drafting, reviewing, and negotiating complex contracts, MOUs, or interagency agreements. Include an example of how you ensured compliance with state procurement rules and protected the organization's interests.
• Describe your leadership philosophy and experience managing attorneys or cross-functional teams. Additionally, explain how you have provided counsel to executives or governing bodies to support sound, ethical, and defensible decision-making.

Examination Information


Each applicant's experience, education, certification, and training will be independently rated for the position against specific job-related criteria developed from the minimum qualifications and desirable qualifications. It is critical that each applicant include specific information on how his/her experience, education, certification, and training meet the minimum qualifications and desirable qualifications for this exam.

All candidates will be assigned a rating and will be notified in writing of their final scores. In order to be successful in this examination, candidates must attain a minimum rating of 70.00%. The results of this examination will be used to establish an employment list. The list will be used to fill the General Counsel, Legal Division of the California Student Aid Commission. Based upon the screening committee's evaluation of the competitive group, hiring interviews may be conducted with only the most qualified candidates, if it is determined necessary in order to make a selection.

The examining Department reserves the right to revise the examination plan to better meet the needs of the service, if the circumstances under which this examination was planned change. Such revision will be in accordance with civil service law and rules and all competitors will be notified.

Special Testing Arrangements

If you have a disability and need special testing arrangement, mark the appropriate box on the Standard State Application (STD. 678) requesting a reasonable accommodation. You will be contacted to make special arrangements. If it is decided a hiring interview is to be conducted and you need a reasonable accommodation, the request should be made at the time you are contacted for the interview. Questions regarding reasonable accommodations may be directed to the Equal Employment Opportunity contact listed on the job posting.


If you meet the requirements stated in this announcement, you may take this competitive examination. Possession of the Examination Qualifications requirements does not assure a place on the eligible list. Your performance in the examination will be compared with the performance of others who take this examination, and all successful candidates will be ranked according to their scores.


A minimum rating of 70% must be attained in the Examination to obtain list eligibility for this position. All candidates will receive written notification of their examination results.


The results of this examination will only be used to fill this position. Applications will be retained for twelve months.


Hiring interviews for the Job may be conducted with the most qualified candidates.


The examining Department reserves the right to revise the examination plan to better meet the needs of the service, if the circumstances under which this examination was planned change. Such revision will be in accordance with civil service law and rules and all competitors will be notified.


Special Testing Arrangements If you have a disability and need special testing arrangements, answer the Reasonable Accommodations question appropriately on your Application (STD 678). You will be contacted to make specific arrangements. Questions regarding reasonable accommodations may be directed to the EEO contact listed on this announcement.


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



Contact Information
The Human Resources Contact is available to answer questions regarding the position or application process.
Department Website:
Human Resources Contact:
Terry Anderson
View phone number on click.appcast.io
View email address on click.appcast.io


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:
Libby Avalos
View phone number on click.appcast.io
View email address on click.appcast.io
California Relay Service: View phone number on click.appcast.io (TTY), View phone number on click.appcast.io (Voice) TTY is a Telecommunications Device for the Deaf, and is reachable only from phones equipped with a TTY Device.


Additional Application Instructions
A completed application package must include the following:

• On the Examination/Employment Application (STD. 678) enter the Position Number, Position Title, and Job Control Number in the "Examination(s) or Job Title(s) For Which You Are Applying" section.
• "To" and "From" dates (Month/Day/Year) and total hours worked per week for all employment history listed on the STD. 678.
• Name, address, and phone numbers of current and former employers and supervisors.
• "To" and "From" dates (Month/Day/Year) on the resume (if applicable).
• State employees must list the specific departments for which they worked and indicate the specific civil service classification held (not working titles).
• All required documents listed in the "Required Application Documents" section.
• If you are meeting minimum qualifications with education, you must include a copy of your official/informal transcripts for verification. These transcripts must include your name and the name of the school. Official transcripts may be required upon appointment.
• If you have a degree from outside of the United States, you must also submit an evaluation of this degree to determine its US equivalency. If you need an evaluation, you can visit this website to find organizations that provide these services.

All Experience and Education relating to the Minimum Qualifications listed on the Classification Specification must be included in your completed Application Package to demonstrate how you meet the Minimum Qualifications for the position.

Failure to provide the information listed above may disqualify you from consideration for this recruitment.


Resumes, Cover Letters, etc. DO NOT replace the required, completed Examination/Employment Application (STD. 678).

Personally Identifiable Information:
Please do not include your Social Security Number, date of birth, veteran status, personal photos, LEAP information, or any other personally identifying information on any of your documents in your application package.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at CSAC
Diversity Statement: Here at the CSAC, we want all of our employees to feel respected, valued, appreciated, and equipped to thrive. CSAC encourages employees to work together to fuel the creativity and innovation process necessary to serve our customers well. This commitment fosters and inclusive work environment where all backgrounds, cultures, and personal experiences are honored as we join in common cause to make college affordable for all California students.



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.