What are the responsibilities and job description for the Chief Technology Officer position at Orange County CA?

Salary : $202,167.00 - $313,356.00 Annually

Location : 2223 E. Wellington Ave. Suite #100 Santa Ana, CA

Job Type : Full-Time Regular

Remote Employment : Flexible / Hybrid

Job Number : 8315E0-0225-157(O)

Department : OCERS

Opening Date : 02 / 10 / 2025

Closing Date : Continuous

CAREER DESCRIPTION

CHIEF TECHNOLOGY OFFICER

Open to the Public

Applications will be accepted on a continuous basis until the needs of OCERS have been met. Interested applicants are encouraged to apply immediately.

OCERS offers a competitive benefits package, a defined benefit pension plan which has reciprocity with the Public Employees Retirement System (PERS), and a deferred compensation 457 plan. OCERS offers up to an annual $10,000 Educational and Professional Reimbursement, a $4,500 taxable optional benefit plan, annual leave, and a flexible / hybrid work schedule.

OCERS also offers an additional 5.5% certification pay for staff with the Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSO) certification.

DESCRIPTION :

The Orange County Employees Retirement System (OCERS) invites you to join our team! We are now accepting on-line applications to fill the position of Chief Technology Officer.

WHO WE ARE :

Established in 1945, the Orange County Employees Retirement System (OCERS) provides retirement, death, disability and cost-of-living benefits to retirees of the County of Orange and certain County districts. Serving approximately 55,000 members, OCERS is governed by a ten-member Board of Retirement that is responsible for managing a $24 billion dollar fund. For more information about OCERS, please click here.

Mission

OCERS' mission is to provide secure retirement and disability benefits with the highest standards of excellence. Vision OCERS' vision is to be a trusted partner providing premier pension administration, distinguished by consistent, quality member experiences and prudent financial stewardship. Values

Open and Transparent
Commitment to Superior Service
Engaged and Dedicated Workforce
Reliable and Accurate
Secure and Sustainable

THE OPPORTUNITY :

Under the direction of the Chief Executive Officer, the Chief Technology Officer (CTO) is an at-will senior executive role responsible for overseeing the development and implementation of OCERS technology strategy, including the integration of cutting-edge artificial intelligence (AI) solutions. The CTO will lead OCERS digital transformation efforts, ensuring that AI and technology are used ethically, efficiently, and in alignment with governmental priorities. The role includes managing technology infrastructure, driving innovation, and working closely with internal and external stakeholders to shape OCERS technological landscape.

CORE COMPETENCIES :

The Chief Technology Officer position reports directly to the Chief Executive Officer and is expected to uphold the highest standards of integrity, accountability, professionalism, customer service, and excellence. The CTO will oversee the Information Technology and Information Security departments, with the Director of Information Technology and Director of Cyber Security reporting directly to the CTO.

This role requires a strategic thinker with a deep understanding of emerging technologies, AI ethics, and government regulations, as well as the ability to effectively communicate and collaborate with stakeholders at all levels.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES :

Technology and AI Strategy Leadership : Lead the design, development, and execution of OCERS technology and AI strategy, identifying and implementing innovative AI, machine learning, and data-driven solutions to enhance operations and service delivery.

Information Security Oversight : Oversee the continuous improvement, implementation, and management of OCERS information security program, aligning with industry best practices and regulatory requirements. Collaborate with the Information Technology and Information Security departments to ensure the protection of data, infrastructure, and critical systems against cybersecurity threats. Stay abreast of ongoing industry threats, as well as trending issues.

Governance and Compliance : Establish and oversee AI and technology governance frameworks to ensure compliance with federal and state regulations, data privacy laws, and ethical standards. Ensure that all AI and technology initiatives comply with relevant laws, regulations, and agency policies. Provide regular updates to the CEO and other senior leadership on progress, challenges, and risks.

Digital Transformation and Innovation : Champion OCERS digital transformation efforts, overseeing the adoption of new technologies that streamline processes, improve efficiency, and enhance the member experience. Stay apprised of technology trends in both public and private sectors.

Quality Assurance and Data Protection : Build quality assurance and data protection processes by implementing information security standards and policies, including running audits and documenting security procedures.

IT Operations Management : Align with IT teams on the oversight of the day-to-day operations of the IT department, ensuring reliable and efficient IT services. Ensure the IT infrastructure, enterprise applications, and systems teams are positioned appropriately with the right teams and tools to support business operations and growth. Ensure industry standards, foundational operations, processes and frameworks are established to create a stable and scalable environment. Work with teams on continuous improvement efforts to ensure the business and end users have a positive and productive experience.

External Collaboration and Advocacy : Work closely with internal teams, government partners, and the private sector to promote the use of technology and AI in public service, and act as OCERS spokesperson for technology-related matters.

Team Leadership and Development : Build and mentor high-performing IT and Information Security teams, promote a culture of collaboration, innovation and accountability within the IT and Information Security Departments, supervise IT and Information Security staff, evaluate performance, and coordinate training and development for current and future needs of the organization.

Budget and Resource Management : Manage all technology and Information Security budgets, ensuring optimal allocation of resources for both short-term projects and long-term initiatives.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS :

Education and Experience :

Bachelor's degree from an accredited university in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Information Technology, Data Science, Engineering or a related field.

Seven years of experience in leading technology teams with a proven track record of transformation and innovation to include, digital transformation, AI and Machine Learning, preferably in the public or large-scale enterprise sector.

Highly Desirable :

Master's Degree in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Information Technology, Data Science, Engineering or a related field.

Certifications : Information Technology Infrastructure Library (ITIL), Certified in Governance of Enterprise IT (CGEIT), Certified Information Technology Manager (CITM), and / or Six Sigma.

Completion of an AI certificate program.

Special Notes, Licenses, or Requirements :

A valid driver's license or the ability to arrange necessary and timely transportation for field travel.

The use of a personal vehicle may be required.

A complete background investigation is required; a felony or misdemeanor conviction may be a disqualifying factor from employment.

Please click for additional details about the Chief Technology Officer classification.

KNOWLEDGE / SKILLS / ABILITIES :

The Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities necessary to perform essential duties of the position :

Knowledge :

In-depth understanding of federal and state regulations governing technology, AI, and data privacy.

Expertise in analytical tools and techniques for evaluating AI performance, technology trends, and program effectiveness.

Management and best practices for software research / recommendations, improvement, implementation, and integration.

Familiarity with technology governance frameworks and risk management principles.

Skills / Ability to :

Plan, organize, and manage technology infrastructure development, operations, and support for OCERS.

Communicate complex technical concepts clearly to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.

Lead and mentor teams, with a proven ability to foster collaboration across departments and external partners.

Make data-driven decisions and to drive technology innovation that aligns with public sector priorities.

Prepare complex correspondence, reports, narratives, and fiscal and budget documents for the Board of Retirement, executive staff, and managers and present them both orally and in writing so they are understood by all audience levels.

Exhibit strong public speaking skills and the ability to present to a public board.

Manage and prioritize multiple projects while maintaining a high standard of professionalism, confidentiality, and ethical conduct.

Exhibit exemplary interpersonal skills and exercise sound judgment and professionalism in business matters.

Communicate information security and risk-related concepts to technical and nontechnical audiences at various hierarchical levels, ranging from board members to technical specialists.

PHYSICAL, MENTAL, AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS :

The following is a description of the physical and mental abilities customarily required to perform the essential job functions of this position.

Physical and Mental Requirements :

Ability to communicate clearly and understandably in person and over the telephone, both one-on-one and in small groups.

Ability to operate a telephone, keyboard, computer, and calculator.

Ability to access a standard office environment.

Ability to sit for prolonged periods of time.

Environmental Conditions :

The primary workplace is in an office environment, working with standard office equipment.

Peripheral office equipment generates a quiet to moderate noise level.

Operates in an environment that includes elected officials, non-elected officials, government agencies, community interest groups and the general public in the development and coordination of OCERS affairs.

Out of area travel may be required to attend professional conferences and other meetings.

BENEFITS :

OCERS offers a flexible / hybrid work schedule plus a generous benefits package that includes :

Participation in OCERS Defined Benefit Plan

OCERS 401(a) Defined Contribution Plan : OCERS contributes an amount equal to 3% of your bi-weekly salary

County of Orange 401(a) Defined Contribution Plan : OCERS contributes an amount equal to 4% of your bi-weekly salary

Optional voluntary 457 Deferred Compensation Plan (consisting of voluntary contributions)

Optional Benefit Plan (OBP) in the amount of $4,500 annually

Health coverage is available, with eligible dependent coverage

No cost PPO Dental and Vision for you and your dependents

No cost short and long-term disability insurance plans

No cost Life Insurance of $125,000

Option to join a Dependent Care Reimbursement Account (DCRA)

Option to join a Health Care Reimbursement Account (HCRA)

Tuition Reimbursement up to $10,000 annually

Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

Annual Leave of 24.5 days per year, increases with longevity

RECRUITMENT PROCEDURE :

OCERS Human Resources Department will screen all applications and supplemental responses to identify qualified candidates. Applications submitted without completed supplemental responses will be disqualified from further consideration. After screening, the more qualified candidates will be referred to the next step in the recruitment process and notified of all further procedures applicable to their application status.

Application Rating (AAP)

Refer / Non-Refer) Application materials will be rated by a panel of job knowledge experts for those qualifications most needed to perform the job duties. The more qualified candidates will be referred to the next step. All notifications regarding this recruitment will be sent via e-mail.

Qualifications Appraisal Panel (QAP)

Candidates will be interviewed and rated by a panel of job knowledge experts. Each candidate's rating will be based on responses to a series of structured questions designed to elicit the candidate's qualifications for the job.

Based on OCERS' needs and the number of applications received, the selection procedures listed above may be modified, and all affected candidates will be notified.

HOW TO APPLY :

Only online applications with the completed supplemental questions will be accepted.

E-mail is the primary form of notification during the recruitment process. Please ensure your correct e-mail address is on your application and only use one e-mail account.

Your application should highlight all areas in which you have developed expertise, matching your professional experience with the specific qualifications listed above.

You may apply online at the OCERS website :

For specific information pertaining to this recruitment, please contact Sarah Abrahamson at (714) 569-4818 or email sabrahamson@ocers.org.

Do not submit a resume to this email address as they will not be considered in lieu of the required application process.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

EMAIL NOTIFICATION :

Email is the primary form of notification during the recruitment process. Please ensure your correct email address is included in our application and use only one email account. NOTE : User accounts are established for one person only and should not be shared with another person. Multiple applications with multiple users may jeopardize your status in the recruitment process for any positions for which you apply. Candidates will be notified regarding their status as the recruitment proceeds via email through the GovernmentJobs.com site. Please check your email folders, including spam / junk folders, and / or accept emails ending with "governmentjobs.com" and "ocers.org." If your email address should change, please update your profile at

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS :

Click for additional Frequently Asked Questions.

EEO INFORMATION

OCERS, as an Equal Employment Opportunity employer, encourages applicants from diverse backgrounds to apply.

Non-Management Benefits

In addition to the County's standard suite of benefits, such as a variety of health plan options, annual leave and paid holidays we also offer an excellent array of benefits such as a Health Care Reimbursement Account, 457 Defined Contribution Plan and Annual Education and Professional Reimbursement. Employees are provided a Retirement Plan through the Orange County Employees Retirement System

Please go to the following link to find out more about Defined Benefit Pensions and OCERS Plan Types / Benefits.

Click for information about benefits offered to County of Orange employees.

Thank you for your interest in the Chief Technology Officer position. You are required to provide full and complete responses to the supplemental questions. Your completed responses to these supplemental questions will be evaluated to determine your qualifications and must be completed properly in order to be given full consideration for the next phase in the selection process. Supplemental questions are designed to help you present your qualifications for this position and will be rated based on the information that you supply. Please provide succinct, concise, descriptive, and detailed information and highlight all of the areas in which you have developed expertise, matching your professional experience with the specific qualifications and abilities for each question. Resumes will not be accepted in lieu of completing the supplemental questions. By selecting yes below, you acknowledge that you have read and understood the requirements of this application.

Do you have a Bachelor's degree from an accredited university in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Information Technology, Data Science, Engineering or a related field?

Do you have seven or more years of experience in leading technology teams with a proven track record of transformation and innovation to include, digital transformation, AI and Machine Learning, preferably in the public or large-scale enterprise sector?

Why does the experience above, and any resulting skills, make you a strong candidate for this position?

I have attached a copy of my resume to my application or emailed it to sabrahamson@ocers.org.

Describe a digital transformation or automation project you've led. What were the key challenges, and how did you ensure the project met both organizational goals and regulatory requirements?

As a public agency committed to transparency and ethical conduct, OCERS requires candidates to disclose any outside business activities. Are you currently engaged in any outside business activities?

If you answered "Yes" to the above question, please provide a brief description of the outside business activity, including the nature of the business and your role or involvement.

Required Question

Salary : $202,167 - $313,356

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