Description:
Job Description and Duties:We are advertising this position as until filled. We will review applications every 15 days, with the first cutoff being 6/12.
Why join CalHR?
The California Department of Human Resources (CalHR) was named a 2026 Gallup Exceptional Workplace Award winner for strengths development, a national recognition of organizations that build cultures helping people do their best work. This honor reflects our department-wide investment in a strengths-based workplace that supports growth, leadership and a stronger employee experience. Join CalHR to work in an environment that prioritizes professional development and public service.
The California Department of Human Resources (CalHR) is the pillar of human resources management for all state employees. Our success is made possible by the hard work of more than 400 CalHR team members who serve as trusted advisors to our strategic partners and the public. If you are interested in providing exceptional human resource services and guidance, CalHR is the place for you. By joining our team, you'll have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact while working alongside passionate professionals. Get to know us more here! (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2EUGuZ93kbU)
CalHR employees are excluded from bargaining and are eligible to receive enhanced benefits, such as CoBen benefit allowance, employer paid life insurance, additional vacation/annual leave, and are not subject to State Disability Insurance payroll withholding.
This is an exciting opportunity to join our diverse team in the following role. If you are interested in joining our team, apply today!
About This Role:
Do you want to be the first chair attorney litigating administrative hearings, and arguing writs, motions, and appeals in civil court -- all while maintaining a work-life balance, collaborating with a supportive team of attorneys and assistants, AND having multiple telework days*?
If so, join the small boutique law firm that is California Department of Human Resources (CalHR) Legal Division. You will work on diverse labor and employment duties—including litigating a wide variety of interesting and impactful labor and employment cases, conducting training, performing workplace investigations, providing in-house counsel on employment and personnel matters, and consulting and drafting legal opinions for high level executives on sensitive issues and projects. Unlike many other state departments, CalHR attorneys are authorized to independently represent CalHR and other departments in civil litigation, including both state and federal courts, and appellate courts in labor law matters. Our attorneys regularly argue consequential matters in superior and appellate courts that involve important public policy issues, and which ultimately may result in published decisions and shape the law.
You will enjoy being assigned the majority of your work from the inception of the case and will be the primary attorney working the matter until its resolution. And working alongside approximately 15-20 attorneys, you'll have the support and collaboration of experienced peers, and the ability to mentor more junior attorneys throughout your tenure at CalHR.
Under the general supervision of an Assistant Chief Counsel (ACC), and under the general supervision of the Chief Counsel and Deputy Chief Counsel, the Attorney IV the advanced journey level attorney, performing work involving novel theories emerging areas of law, legal specialization, and precedential significance. The Attorney IV is assigned sensitive and difficult litigation and handle cases that may be appealed to the highest courts.
How to Apply:
Information about applying for a state job can be found here: Three Steps to a State Job https://calcareers.ca.gov/CalHRPublic/Landing/Jobs/Steps.aspx). If you're interested in exploring additional job opportunities at CalHR, please reach out to our recruitment team at CalHRTalentEngagement@calhr.ca.gov. We'd love to hear from you!
You will find additional information about the job in the Duty Statement. (https://www.calcareers.ca.gov/CalHrPublic/FileDownload.aspx?aid=32112979&name=363-400-5780-XXXAttyIVDutyStatement.pdf)
Working Conditions:
This position is eligible for a Hire-Above-Minimum salary rate.
This position may be eligible for a telework opportunity in accordance with departmental policies and operational needs. Employees are currently required to work in-person at least two (2) days per week. Beginning July 1, 2026, employees will be required to work in-person at least four (4) days per week in alignment with Executive Order N-22-25. Additional in-office days may be required based on operational needs.
Personal Leave Program: Effective July 1, 2025, state employees are subject to temporary salary reductions ranging from 2% to 4.62% in exchange for Personal Leave Program (PLP) hours. Please note that the salary ranges listed in this Job Control may not reflect these reductions associated with the 2025 Personal Leave Program. Please follow the link for more information regarding the 2025 Personal Leave program: http://hrmanual.calhr.ca.gov/Home/ManualItem/1/2113.
Merit Salary Adjustment (MSA): Every 12 months, based on performance, employees may receive a 5% salary increase until they reach the maximum salary for the position.
Minimum Requirements:
Working Conditions:
- Career Development: CalHR provides continuous learning and training opportunities to support personal and professional growth, including two Professional Development Days per fiscal year.
- Location: CalHR is centrally located near the Ice Blocks in downtown Sacramento, with many dining and shopping options nearby.
- Work-Life Balance: Work-life balance is fostered through measures like telework and adjustable schedules, allowing personal and professional lives to thrive together.
- Diversity, Equity, and Inclusivity: A work culture that emphasizes a culture of diversity and inclusivity, offering tangible rewards and recognizing the intrinsic value of varied perspectives and collaboration.
- Generous State Benefits: Comprehensive health and dental insurance, long-term disability insurance, 11 paid holidays per year, paid time off, defined benefit retirement program, commute program, employee wellness programs, employee assistance programs, and medical/dependent care reimbursement accounts.
This position is eligible for a Hire-Above-Minimum salary rate.
This position may be eligible for a telework opportunity in accordance with departmental policies and operational needs. Employees are currently required to work in-person at least two (2) days per week. Beginning July 1, 2026, employees will be required to work in-person at least four (4) days per week in alignment with Executive Order N-22-25. Additional in-office days may be required based on operational needs.
Personal Leave Program: Effective July 1, 2025, state employees are subject to temporary salary reductions ranging from 2% to 4.62% in exchange for Personal Leave Program (PLP) hours. Please note that the salary ranges listed in this Job Control may not reflect these reductions associated with the 2025 Personal Leave Program. Please follow the link for more information regarding the 2025 Personal Leave program: http://hrmanual.calhr.ca.gov/Home/ManualItem/1/2113.
Merit Salary Adjustment (MSA): Every 12 months, based on performance, employees may receive a 5% salary increase until they reach the maximum salary for the position.
Minimum Requirements:
You will find the Minimum Requirements in the Class Specification.
Attorney IV (https://hrnet.calhr.ca.gov/CalHRNet/SpecCrossReference.aspx?ClassID=5780)
Additional Documents
Department Information:
The California Department of Human Resources (CalHR) oversees a wide range of matters related to employee salaries and benefits, job classifications, civil rights, training, exams, recruitment, and retention. For most employees, many of these matters are determined through the collective bargaining process managed by CalHR.
Our Mission: To serve as the trusted advisor to our strategic partners and the public, providing exceptional human resource services and guidance in developing a diverse and inclusive workforce.
Our Vision: Shaping California's future of public service excellence with fair and equitable employment opportunities and a diverse, engaged workforce.
Core Values: People Centric, Leadership, Accountability, DEIA, Integrity, and Transparency.
Please note, CalHR is not an E-Verified employer.
Department Website: https://www.calhr.ca.gov
Special Requirements:
Attorney IV (https://hrnet.calhr.ca.gov/CalHRNet/SpecCrossReference.aspx?ClassID=5780)
Additional Documents
- Job Application Package Checklist (http://calcareers.ca.gov/CalHrPublic/Jobs/JobApplicationPackageChecklist.aspx?JobControlId=519679)
- Duty Statement (https://www.calcareers.ca.gov/CalHrPublic/FileDownload.aspx?aid=32112979&name=363-400-5780-XXXAttyIVDutyStatement.pdf)
Department Information:
The California Department of Human Resources (CalHR) oversees a wide range of matters related to employee salaries and benefits, job classifications, civil rights, training, exams, recruitment, and retention. For most employees, many of these matters are determined through the collective bargaining process managed by CalHR.
Our Mission: To serve as the trusted advisor to our strategic partners and the public, providing exceptional human resource services and guidance in developing a diverse and inclusive workforce.
Our Vision: Shaping California's future of public service excellence with fair and equitable employment opportunities and a diverse, engaged workforce.
Core Values: People Centric, Leadership, Accountability, DEIA, Integrity, and Transparency.
Please note, CalHR is not an E-Verified employer.
Department Website: https://www.calhr.ca.gov
Special Requirements:
The position(s) require(s) a(n) Ca State BAR License. You will be required to provide a copy of your license prior to being hired.
All interested applicants are required to submit a Statement of Qualifications (SOQ). Please provide direct responses to each of the numbered items listed below. Applicants must number and include the full text of the SOQ items in their response. Please include specific examples of your education, training, and/or experience. SOQs should be limited to a maximum of two (2) pages, single-spaced, twelve-point Arial font.
Please describe and give examples of your knowledge of and experience in labor and/or employment law as well as any litigation experience, including administrative litigation. Include any applicable education, volunteer, training, and/or work experience.
Note:Applicants who do not follow these instructions may be disqualified from the selection process. Cover letters and resumes do not take the place of the SOQ.
For helpful guidance on writing an effective SOQ, please see our Work4CA guide. (https://www.calhr.ca.gov/Documents/FINAL%20-%20Candidate%20SOQ%20Guidance%201.pdf)
Application Instructions:
Dates printed on Mobile Bar Codes, such as the Quick Response (QR) Codes available at the USPS, are n
Please describe and give examples of your knowledge of and experience in labor and/or employment law as well as any litigation experience, including administrative litigation. Include any applicable education, volunteer, training, and/or work experience.
Note:Applicants who do not follow these instructions may be disqualified from the selection process. Cover letters and resumes do not take the place of the SOQ.
For helpful guidance on writing an effective SOQ, please see our Work4CA guide. (https://www.calhr.ca.gov/Documents/FINAL%20-%20Candidate%20SOQ%20Guidance%201.pdf)
Application Instructions:
Dates printed on Mobile Bar Codes, such as the Quick Response (QR) Codes available at the USPS, are n
