What are the responsibilities and job description for the ATTORNEY IV position at Caltrans District 3?
Job Posting: ATTORNEY IV
Secretary of State
JC-474143
ATTORNEY IV
ATTORNEY IV
$11,644.00 - $15,627.00 per Month
Final Filing Date: 5/14/2025
Application Methods:
Electronic (Using your CalCareer Account)
By Mail
Drop-off
Print Job
Save Job
Job Description And Duties
The Secretary of State’s (SOS) office is seeking to fill multiple, permanent, full-time Attorney IV vacancies. You will play a vital role for our Agency by performing a broad range of sensitive and complex legal work, including representing the Agency in complex litigation. Under the general direction of the Chief Counsel, Assistant Chief Counsel and Attorney Supervisors, duties encompass developing strategy and tactics in complex disputes and litigation, participating at hearings on behalf of the agency, conducting legal research, drafting legal opinions and briefs, participating in negotiations, and rendering legal advice to agency staff. The Legal Affairs unit within the Secretary of State’s office provides legal advice relating to all functions of the agency. This may include responding to legal issues involving elections, businesses, political campaigning, legislative advocacy, and historical treasures. Duties specific to this position are as follows:
Trial Preparation, Negotiations and Legal Research: Research applicable laws, rules and regulations to develop strategy and tactics in the most complex disputes and litigation; and provide legal advice to the Secretary of State, Chief Counsel, Assistant Chief Counsel, Attorney Supervisors, Division Chiefs, management and staff regarding division and/or agency legal issues with general or statewide impact. Assists the Attorney General’s Office with interpretation of statutes, regulations, policies and procedures regarding SOS’ authority and roles and responsibilities. Reviews complaints, motions, and other pleadings, assists in discovery and trial, including witness and expert preparation. Represent the agency in settlement negotiations. Coordinates with the Chief Counsel and Assistant Chief Counsel, and other legal staff to work with the Attorney General’s Office for representation in litigation as needed
Civil Litigation and Administrative Proceedings: Independently represent the Agency in state and federal litigation related to various programs, most notably cases involving elections issues. Represent the agency in complex administrative proceedings before the Office of Administrative Hearings, Department of General Services and the State Personnel Board
Legal Review, Legal Program Advisor and Oversight: Performs the most difficult and complex legal work on behalf of the Agency, including legal review of various documents and contracts, legal research and opinion drafting for the agency; responds to difficult legal correspondence and develops and updates agency procedures and policies to ensure legal compliance. Provides legal support and advice to agency management and staff on matters related to the agency’s functions, roles and responsibilities. Assist with procurement and issues relating to contracting, including negotiating and drafting procurement documents, reviewing and drafting contracts, representing the agency in protests, risk management, security, and intellectual property. Acts as liaison with Department of General Services, Department of Finance, Department of Technology, other departments and the Legislature as needed.
Legislation and Regulations: Develops, interprets and/or provides legal review of various documents or information such as statewide regulations, policies, procedures, contracts, Memorandums of Understanding, loan agreements, partnership agreements and other legal documents which may include but are not limited to manuals or correspondence received from other state or local agencies; works with state and local entities to ensure legal compliance with relevant laws, regulations, and policies as needed; drafts and reviews proposed legislative changes, makes recommendations regarding division-wide and statewide impacts, and testifies before legislative committees; prepares and reviews bill analyses to ensure they meet the standards of law and the agency, and prepares written or verbal comments for submission to the Legislature setting forth the position of the Secretary of State regarding proposed legislation.
Document Production: Reviews sensitive public and legislative inquiries and the Agency’s responses. Provides legal advice and support to Division management and staff on records requests and correspondence. Coordinates divisional responses to subpoenas, as needed, which may involve directing staff to research and copy responsive documents, reviewing responsive records for compliance, writing affidavits, and communicating with the courts or subpoenaing attorneys
Legal Representation and Management Assistance: Provides general legal advice relating to agency issues; assists with managing litigation, conducts outreach, and performs general administrative responsibilities.
You will find additional information about the job in the Duty Statement.
Working Conditions
This position may be eligible for telework in alignment with the agency’s policies and division’s business needs.
Minimum Requirements
You will find the Minimum Requirements in the Class Specification.
Job Code #:
JC-474143
Position #(s):
785-104-5780-XXX
Working Title:
ATTORNEY IV
Classification:
ATTORNEY IV
$11,644.00 - $15,627.00 A
# of Positions:
Multiple
Work Location:
Sacramento County
Telework:
Telework
Job Type:
Permanent, Full Time
Department Information
The Office of the Secretary of State (SOS) consists of nearly 750 dedicated public servants who uphold the rights of Californians while also striving to make our government, elections, and businesses both accessible and transparent. Led by an elected leader, accountable to the public, we are dedicated to fostering career development opportunities and growing a skilled workforce that embraces inclusion and values diversity.
Located in downtown Sacramento, the SOS building is within walking distance to a variety of eateries and amenities. Light Rail, State Capitol, Downtown Commons (DOCO), and Golden 1 Center, just to name a few. Conveniently located in the SOS building, the Gold Rush Grille offers delicious daily specials for breakfast or lunch and is open to the public. Our on-site childcare incorporates programs for children six weeks to five years old. Priority waitlist access and special discounted rates are available for SOS employees.
For more information about the SOS, please visit sos.ca.gov.
Special Requirements
Membership in the State Bar of California is a requirement.
Statement of Qualifications: Applicant must submit a clearly titled Statement of Qualifications. The Statement of Qualifications should be no more than three pages. The Statement of Qualifications is a narrative discussion of how the applicant’s education, training, experience, and skills meet the job description and duty statement for the position. The Statement of Qualifications will also serve as documentation of your ability to present information clearly and concisely in writing, since this is a critical factor to successful job performance. Applications received without a Statement of Qualifications will not be considered. Resumes are optional and may not be substituted for a Statement of Qualifications or STD. 678).
Examination Information: Candidates new to state service or those seeking a promotional opportunity must take the online examination to establish eligibility. The examination can be found at the following link CalCareers Examination Link. There is also a Limited Examination & Appointment Program (LEAP) exam available for this classification. Information on the LEAP certification process is available on the Department of Rehabilitation LEAP Certification website.
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: 5/14/2025
Who May Apply
Individuals who are currently in the classification, eligible for lateral transfer, eligible for reinstatement, have list or LEAP eligibility, are in the process of obtaining list eligibility, or have SROA and/or Surplus eligibility (please attach your letter, if available). SROA and Surplus candidates are given priority; therefore, individuals with other eligibility may be considered in the event no SROA or Surplus candidates apply.
Applications will be screened and only the most qualified applicants will be selected to move forward in the selection process. Applicants must meet the Minimum Qualifications stated in the Classification Specification(s).
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 Www.CalCareers.ca.gov. 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:
Secretary of State
Attn: Natalie Venegas
1500 11th St - 4th Floor - Suite 475
Sacramento, CA 95814
Address for Drop-Off Application Packages
You may drop off your application and any applicable or required documents at:
Secretary of State
Natalie Venegas
1500 11th St - 4th Floor - Suite 475
Sacramento, CA 95814
Please drop off applications at the first floor lobby rotunda.
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:
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:
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.
Human Resources Contact:
Natalie Venegas
(916) 653-6974
Nvenegas@sos.ca.gov
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:
Sarah Bielski
(916) 653-6974
sbielski@sos.ca.gov
California Relay Service: 1-800-735-2929 (TTY), 1-800-735-2922 (Voice) TTY is a Telecommunications Device for the Deaf, and is reachable only from phones equipped with a TTY Device.
Attorney IV Classification Salary Information
The salary range for the Attorney IV classification is $11,644 - $15,627; applicants who are new to state employment are offered a starting salary at the minimum of the salary range. The starting salary for current state employees will be based on state salary rules using the employee’s current classification, and salary rate, but in no instance shall be lower than the minimum of the salary range.
The State of California allows for a Hire Above Minimum starting salary rate of $12,925 for those candidates starting at the minimum of the salary range. In addition, qualifying employees will receive a merit salary increase annually not to exceed the maximum of the salary range; merit salary increases are typically 5%.
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.
Secretary of State
JC-474143
ATTORNEY IV
ATTORNEY IV
$11,644.00 - $15,627.00 per Month
Final Filing Date: 5/14/2025
Application Methods:
Electronic (Using your CalCareer Account)
By Mail
Drop-off
Print Job
Save Job
Job Description And Duties
The Secretary of State’s (SOS) office is seeking to fill multiple, permanent, full-time Attorney IV vacancies. You will play a vital role for our Agency by performing a broad range of sensitive and complex legal work, including representing the Agency in complex litigation. Under the general direction of the Chief Counsel, Assistant Chief Counsel and Attorney Supervisors, duties encompass developing strategy and tactics in complex disputes and litigation, participating at hearings on behalf of the agency, conducting legal research, drafting legal opinions and briefs, participating in negotiations, and rendering legal advice to agency staff. The Legal Affairs unit within the Secretary of State’s office provides legal advice relating to all functions of the agency. This may include responding to legal issues involving elections, businesses, political campaigning, legislative advocacy, and historical treasures. Duties specific to this position are as follows:
Trial Preparation, Negotiations and Legal Research: Research applicable laws, rules and regulations to develop strategy and tactics in the most complex disputes and litigation; and provide legal advice to the Secretary of State, Chief Counsel, Assistant Chief Counsel, Attorney Supervisors, Division Chiefs, management and staff regarding division and/or agency legal issues with general or statewide impact. Assists the Attorney General’s Office with interpretation of statutes, regulations, policies and procedures regarding SOS’ authority and roles and responsibilities. Reviews complaints, motions, and other pleadings, assists in discovery and trial, including witness and expert preparation. Represent the agency in settlement negotiations. Coordinates with the Chief Counsel and Assistant Chief Counsel, and other legal staff to work with the Attorney General’s Office for representation in litigation as needed
Civil Litigation and Administrative Proceedings: Independently represent the Agency in state and federal litigation related to various programs, most notably cases involving elections issues. Represent the agency in complex administrative proceedings before the Office of Administrative Hearings, Department of General Services and the State Personnel Board
Legal Review, Legal Program Advisor and Oversight: Performs the most difficult and complex legal work on behalf of the Agency, including legal review of various documents and contracts, legal research and opinion drafting for the agency; responds to difficult legal correspondence and develops and updates agency procedures and policies to ensure legal compliance. Provides legal support and advice to agency management and staff on matters related to the agency’s functions, roles and responsibilities. Assist with procurement and issues relating to contracting, including negotiating and drafting procurement documents, reviewing and drafting contracts, representing the agency in protests, risk management, security, and intellectual property. Acts as liaison with Department of General Services, Department of Finance, Department of Technology, other departments and the Legislature as needed.
Legislation and Regulations: Develops, interprets and/or provides legal review of various documents or information such as statewide regulations, policies, procedures, contracts, Memorandums of Understanding, loan agreements, partnership agreements and other legal documents which may include but are not limited to manuals or correspondence received from other state or local agencies; works with state and local entities to ensure legal compliance with relevant laws, regulations, and policies as needed; drafts and reviews proposed legislative changes, makes recommendations regarding division-wide and statewide impacts, and testifies before legislative committees; prepares and reviews bill analyses to ensure they meet the standards of law and the agency, and prepares written or verbal comments for submission to the Legislature setting forth the position of the Secretary of State regarding proposed legislation.
Document Production: Reviews sensitive public and legislative inquiries and the Agency’s responses. Provides legal advice and support to Division management and staff on records requests and correspondence. Coordinates divisional responses to subpoenas, as needed, which may involve directing staff to research and copy responsive documents, reviewing responsive records for compliance, writing affidavits, and communicating with the courts or subpoenaing attorneys
Legal Representation and Management Assistance: Provides general legal advice relating to agency issues; assists with managing litigation, conducts outreach, and performs general administrative responsibilities.
You will find additional information about the job in the Duty Statement.
Working Conditions
This position may be eligible for telework in alignment with the agency’s policies and division’s business needs.
Minimum Requirements
You will find the Minimum Requirements in the Class Specification.
- ATTORNEY IV
- Job Application Package Checklist
- Duty Statement
Job Code #:
JC-474143
Position #(s):
785-104-5780-XXX
Working Title:
ATTORNEY IV
Classification:
ATTORNEY IV
$11,644.00 - $15,627.00 A
# of Positions:
Multiple
Work Location:
Sacramento County
Telework:
Telework
Job Type:
Permanent, Full Time
Department Information
The Office of the Secretary of State (SOS) consists of nearly 750 dedicated public servants who uphold the rights of Californians while also striving to make our government, elections, and businesses both accessible and transparent. Led by an elected leader, accountable to the public, we are dedicated to fostering career development opportunities and growing a skilled workforce that embraces inclusion and values diversity.
Located in downtown Sacramento, the SOS building is within walking distance to a variety of eateries and amenities. Light Rail, State Capitol, Downtown Commons (DOCO), and Golden 1 Center, just to name a few. Conveniently located in the SOS building, the Gold Rush Grille offers delicious daily specials for breakfast or lunch and is open to the public. Our on-site childcare incorporates programs for children six weeks to five years old. Priority waitlist access and special discounted rates are available for SOS employees.
For more information about the SOS, please visit sos.ca.gov.
Special Requirements
Membership in the State Bar of California is a requirement.
Statement of Qualifications: Applicant must submit a clearly titled Statement of Qualifications. The Statement of Qualifications should be no more than three pages. The Statement of Qualifications is a narrative discussion of how the applicant’s education, training, experience, and skills meet the job description and duty statement for the position. The Statement of Qualifications will also serve as documentation of your ability to present information clearly and concisely in writing, since this is a critical factor to successful job performance. Applications received without a Statement of Qualifications will not be considered. Resumes are optional and may not be substituted for a Statement of Qualifications or STD. 678).
Examination Information: Candidates new to state service or those seeking a promotional opportunity must take the online examination to establish eligibility. The examination can be found at the following link CalCareers Examination Link. There is also a Limited Examination & Appointment Program (LEAP) exam available for this classification. Information on the LEAP certification process is available on the Department of Rehabilitation LEAP Certification website.
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: 5/14/2025
Who May Apply
Individuals who are currently in the classification, eligible for lateral transfer, eligible for reinstatement, have list or LEAP eligibility, are in the process of obtaining list eligibility, or have SROA and/or Surplus eligibility (please attach your letter, if available). SROA and Surplus candidates are given priority; therefore, individuals with other eligibility may be considered in the event no SROA or Surplus candidates apply.
Applications will be screened and only the most qualified applicants will be selected to move forward in the selection process. Applicants must meet the Minimum Qualifications stated in the Classification Specification(s).
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 Www.CalCareers.ca.gov. 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:
Secretary of State
Attn: Natalie Venegas
1500 11th St - 4th Floor - Suite 475
Sacramento, CA 95814
Address for Drop-Off Application Packages
You may drop off your application and any applicable or required documents at:
Secretary of State
Natalie Venegas
1500 11th St - 4th Floor - Suite 475
Sacramento, CA 95814
Please drop off applications at the first floor lobby rotunda.
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 www.CalCareers.ca.gov. 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 optional. It may be included, but is not required.
- Statement of Qualifications - Please provide your response to the statement of qualifications as directed above.
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:
- Litigation experience, including a history of independently handling and litigating complex civil cases.
- Knowledge of California's legislative and administrative rule process.
- Knowledge of election and corporate laws.
- Prior experience serving as counsel to a public agency.
- Demonstrates excellence in verbal and written communications.
- Demonstrates exceptional proficiency in legal research and analysis.
- Ability to meet deadlines, take initiative, and work independently and/or in a team environment.
- Demonstrate consistent attention to detail.
- Proven leadership abilities, including mentoring ad guiding junior legal staff.
- Ability to interact professionally and effectively with the public, Agency personnel, and other stakeholders.
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.
Human Resources Contact:
Natalie Venegas
(916) 653-6974
Nvenegas@sos.ca.gov
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:
Sarah Bielski
(916) 653-6974
sbielski@sos.ca.gov
California Relay Service: 1-800-735-2929 (TTY), 1-800-735-2922 (Voice) TTY is a Telecommunications Device for the Deaf, and is reachable only from phones equipped with a TTY Device.
Attorney IV Classification Salary Information
The salary range for the Attorney IV classification is $11,644 - $15,627; applicants who are new to state employment are offered a starting salary at the minimum of the salary range. The starting salary for current state employees will be based on state salary rules using the employee’s current classification, and salary rate, but in no instance shall be lower than the minimum of the salary range.
The State of California allows for a Hire Above Minimum starting salary rate of $12,925 for those candidates starting at the minimum of the salary range. In addition, qualifying employees will receive a merit salary increase annually not to exceed the maximum of the salary range; merit salary increases are typically 5%.
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.
Salary : $11,644 - $15,627
