Staff Attorney

Equitable and Inclusive Hiring at Disability Rights California (DRC) At Disability Rights California (DRC), we are committed to creating an equitable, accessible, and inclusive experience for all applicants. Reasonable Accommodations American Sign Language (ASL) interpretation Alternative formats for interview materials (e.g., large print, Braille, digital files) Interview questions are provided prior to the interview Extended interview time A quiet or distraction-free interview setting Adjustments to the interview format for accessibility (e.g., pinning participants,) Assistance with reading or note‑taking during interviews If you require an accommodation due to a disability to complete this application or you are experiencing issues submitting your application and accompanying materials, please e‑mail: View email address on click.appcast.io. Resume and cover letter are required. Incomplete applications will not be considered. Location 150 Amber Grove Drive, Chico (FAR NORTHERN REGIONAL CENTER), eligible for hybrid schedule with minimum of 2 days/week in office. Employment Status Exempt; Regular; Full‑time Salary Range $72,318 – $91,242 annually (CRA 1) Band 8 $70,858 – $98,816 annually (CRA 2) Band 9 As part of our commitment to internal equity, salary offers are determined through a structured analysis that considers each candidate’s relevant education and years of substantially similar experience for the position. Benefits 8% 401(k) match, a loan repayment assistance program (up to $300 per month depending on salary and debt) A language differential up to $250 per month. Health HMO and POS (for individuals outside the HMO areas) options, health reimbursement account, dental, vision, basic life insurance, voluntary life, and flexible spending accounts (medical, dependent care, and commuter). Ample vacation, wellness time, and eighteen paid holidays (including the last week in December). Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) eligible employer. Internal Candidate Eligibility Regular employees Meet the minimum requirements of the position for which they are applying Employed for more than 6 months In good standing Application Deadline Open until filled. Who We Are Disability Rights California (DRC) defends, advances, and strengthens the rights and opportunities of people with disabilities. DRC works for a world where all disabled people have power and are treated with dignity and respect. Office of Clients’ Rights Advocacy DRC has a contract with the Department of Developmental Services (DDS), State of California, to provide Clients’ Rights Advocacy services for clients of each of the 21 regional centers located statewide. Purpose of the Job The Clients’ Rights Advocate (CRA) advocates for people with developmental disabilities who are regional center clients, including people who reside in state developmental centers and community facilities. The CRA is a generalist who provides information, advice, and representation on a wide range of legal topics impacting people who receive regional center services, including special education, Social Security, IHSS, healthcare and insurance, and living in the community. The CRA works under the direct supervision of a supervising attorney and collaborates with other OCRA advocates and attorneys. Job Responsibilities Advocacy — 70% Work in‑person in the Chico office a minimum of two days per week, in collaboration with OCRA’s Far Northern Regional Center team. Provide information and advice about the diverse legal needs of people with developmental disabilities who receive services from the regional center. Represent clients at administrative proceedings regarding education, public benefits, and regional center eligibility and services. Identify and employ impact advocacy strategies to remove systematic barriers for people with disabilities. Develop and engage in relationships and collaborations with a range of public and private community partners, including governmental agencies and community‑based organizations, to ensure integrative services for people who receive regional center services. Investigate, facilitate, and report on findings from complaints of violation, withholding, or denial of rights. Supervision — 15% May directly supervise up to one advocate. Outreach and Training — 15% Develop and implement an outreach plan, including targeted outreach to traditionally underserved communities. Strengthen and build relationships with local community‑based organizations. Develop and conduct outreach, education, and training for regional center clients and their families, community groups, and others. Other Duties Perform other duties as assigned. Supervisory Responsibilities Directly supervises one advocate and carries out supervisory responsibilities in accordance with the agency's policies and applicable laws. Responsibilities include interview, hire, and train employees; plan, assign, and direct work; appraise performance; reward and discipline employees; address complaints and resolve problems. Requirements Minimum Qualifications Juris Doctor degree. Two or more years of experience advocating for the rights of people with developmental disabilities, or in a paid or volunteer position relating to regional center services, special education, or Social Security, or working with vulnerable people or communities. Ability to conduct research and analysis of pertinent legal authority. Written and verbal communication skills sufficient to communicate complex legal questions and issues to the general public. Experience working with or sensitivity to people with disabilities. Experience working with or sensitivity to people from ethnic or language distinct communities. Desirable Qualifications Three or more years advocating for the rights of people with developmental disabilities. Ability to communicate fluently and write effectively in Spanish or an Asian language, including the ability to interpret and translate. Knowledge of statewide resources available to people with developmental disabilities. Experience reviewing medical or educational records. Alternate dispute resolution training and practice. One or more years supervising colleagues in a work or volunteer setting. Contacts with disability organizations and/or within disability communities. Experience with or extensive contacts in ethnic or language distinct communities. Experience providing training to a diverse range of people. Life experience as a person with a disability or direct experience as a caregiver of a person with a disability. Proficiency with Windows-based computer applications including Microsoft Office and case management software. Demonstrated experience and ability to work effectively with a variety of organizations and individuals with diverse perspectives, including people with disabilities, administrators, advocacy groups, and the public, and to maintain confidentiality in all matters. Bilingual Ability N/A Licenses / Certificates For placement as a CRA 2, must be admitted to the California State Bar or eligible to practice under California’s Registered Legal Services Attorney Program. If eligible under the RLSA Program, must become admitted to the California State Bar within five (5) years. If hired as a CRA 1 and later become licensed, eligible for an immediate promotion to CRA 2. Travel Requirements Occasional travel required, up to 10% of the time for client meetings, out‑of‑town meetings, team meetings, training, or outreach activities. More travel may be required to meet program or contract requirements. Working Conditions Duties are performed in office and home environments and the field in a wide range of settings, including courthouses, congregate care or other institutional settings, and community agencies. Duties frequently require sitting and communicating with others. Must be able to transport oneself to work‑related meetings, hearings, facilities, and settings where clients live. #J-18808-Ljbffr