Job Posting: Chief Counsel

State Air Resources Board

JC-461427
-
Chief Counsel
C. E. A.

$14,852.00 - $18,828.00 per Month

Final Filing Date: Until Filled

Job Description and Duties

"Pending CalHR Approval"

This position will run Until Filled, with the following cut off dates: 15th of each month.

Under the broad direction of the Principal Deputy Executive Officer, the Chief Counsel plans, organizes, and directs the work of the Legal Office staff and manages the oversight of the Enforcement Division; provides legal advice to the Board and staff; formulates policy recommendations to the Board and Executive Officer; acts as a member of the Executive leadership team along with the Deputy Executive Officers; to advise and drive progress on organizational matters, including addressing organizational risks and budgetary issues; identifies issues, formulates policy, and develops legal strategies to best meet program objectives; and reviews and assists in the development of budgetary actions, regulations, and legislation.

The Chief Counsel coordinates, plans, organizes and directs the activities of the Legal Office staff involved in legal analysis, interpretation, representation, strategy development, and enforcement actions in support of CARB’s programs; assigns, organizes and supervises the preparation of legal opinions, hearing notices, regulations, staff reports, and correspondence; reviews legal opinions and advice for sufficiency and consistency; provides coordination between legal and program staff; supervises the Enforcement Division and advises on enforcement actions; provides legal advice to the Board and staff; coordinates legal advice with the CalEPA Office of the Secretary; develops regulations and proposals for legislation; develops cases for litigation (both as plaintiff and defendant) with its counsel at the Office of the Attorney General; develops legal strategies; acts as a liaison with the Office of the Attorney General and legal offices of other State and local agencies; attends Board meetings, hearings, and executive sessions; participates in negotiations with the Legislature and other public agencies; represents the Board in legal matters; provides legal information to stakeholders and interested parties; serves as a member of the Executive Office team along with the Deputy Executive Officers; develops and implements policy related to enforcement, legislation, and regulations.

The Chief Counsel advises and assists in internal employee actions, complaints, investigations, and claims; meets with representatives, attorneys, and staff involved; reviews proposed actions; advises on proposed settlements, and other related work.

 Must be an active member in good standing of the California State Bar.

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

Working Conditions

Minimum of two days a week in the office.

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.

Additional Documents

Position Details

Job Code #:
JC-461427
Position #(s):
673-110-7500-006
Working Title:
Chief Counsel
Classification:
C. E. A.
$14,852.00 - $18,828.00 B
# of Positions:
1
Work Location:
Sacramento County
Telework:
Hybrid
Job Type:
Career Executive Assignment - Non Tenured, Full Time

Department Information

This employer participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S.; for more information about E-Verify, please go to www.dhs.gov/e-verify.

CARB values diversity, equity, and inclusion throughout the organization. We foster an environment where employees from a variety of backgrounds, cultures, and personal experiences are welcomed and can thrive. We believe the diversity of our employees is essential to inspiring innovative solutions. Together we further our mission of protecting the public from the harmful effects of air pollution and developing programs and actions to fight climate change. From requirements for clean cars and fuels to adopting innovative solutions to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, California has pioneered a range of effective approaches that have set the standard for effective air and climate programs for the nation, and the world. Join CARB to improve the lives of all Californians.

Department Website: http://www.arb.ca.gov

Special Requirements

  • A Statement of Qualifications (SOQ) detailing experience, knowledge, ability, or potential to meet the Desirable Qualifications is required. It is imperative you review the Desirable Qualifications section when responding to the four questions listed below.
  • The SOQ serves as the examination for this position and shall be the only basis for the candidate's final score and rank on the eligible list. The SOQ must not exceed three pages in length with a font size of at least Arial 12 point.
  • The SOQ must provide specific examples indicating the specific years of experience for each numbered item listed below.
  • The SOQ must respond to each question and numbered in the same order listed below or you may be given a disqualifying score.
  1. CARB’s Chief Counsel position plays a critical role in providing legal guidance, strategic advice, and leadership to support our mission. Please provide specific examples from your experience that demonstrate your expertise in handling legal disputes, managing litigation strategy, and mitigating legal risks, including in a complex environmental regulatory setting.
  2. In your view, what is the role of the CARB Legal Office in supporting and influencing decision-making within a state regulatory agency? Please provide examples from your experience where your strategic advice significantly influenced policy decisions.
  3. How will CARB’s mission be reflected in your leadership style?

Application Instructions

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: Until Filled

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 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:

State Air Resources Board
Shahbanou Cashkouli
Attn: C/O ASD-Examination & Recruitment Unit
1001 I Street, 5th Floor
Sacramento, CA 95814

Address for Drop-Off Application Packages

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

State Air Resources Board
Shahbanou Cashkouli
Attn: C/O ASD-Examination & Recruitment Unit
1001 I Street, 5th Floor
Sacramento, CA 95814
If dropping off hard copy applications, please email recruitment@arb.ca.gov to confirm submission
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 required and must be included.
  • Statement of Qualifications -
    • The application form submitted MUST be accompanied by a Statement of Qualifications (numbered questions) detailing the experience, knowledge, ability, or potential to meet the Desirable Qualifications. Refer to instructions under Special Requirements.
    • A resume does not replace the Statement of Qualifications.
  • Other -

    Must be an active member in good standing of the California State Bar.

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.

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:

  • 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:
  • Must be an active member in good standing of the California State Bar at the time of selection.
  • Managerial experience and demonstrated leadership, creativity, and sound judgment in directing a group of multi-disciplinary professionals to implement complex and difficult legal recommendations.
  • Ability to formulate and implement sound policy recommendations that integrate legal considerations.
  • Experience with staff development, staff retention and succession planning concepts.
  • Well-developed interpersonal skills and the ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing.
  • Expertise in the legal issues connected with air quality and climate change.
  • Possesses a sophisticated understanding of the legal issues current and anticipated within CARB's jurisdiction.
  • Familiar with relevant court decisions.
  • Familiar with regulatory, technological, social, and political issues involved in fulfilling CARB's mandate.
  • Knowledge of Administrative Laws and the requirements for adoption of regulations in California.
  • Knowledge of Constitutional provisions and federal, state, and local laws, regulations, and executive orders, in particular to California air pollution control laws and the federal Clean Air Act.
  • Detailed knowledge of policies and measurement practices, with specific familiarity with California laws and policies.
  • Knowledge of policy and technical issues associated with implementation and enforcement of air pollution control strategies.
  • Detailed knowledge of organization and functions of California State Government including the public administration practices, and the State rulemaking process. Knowledge of federal government organization and functions.
  • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with senior representatives of industry, regulated facilities, environmental groups, the Legislature, media organizations, and federal, State, and local government agencies.
  • Established ability to work with the California Attorney General's Office lawyers on ongoing and future litigation.
  • Experience in managing high-impact rulemaking, public engagement, and enforcement work.
  • Possesses a sophisticated understanding and awareness of diversity, equity, inclusion, and belong principles.
  • Ability to exercise discretion and diplomacy in sensitive interactions, including with stakeholders.
  • Ability to uphold strong ethical standards.

Examination Information

The examination process will consist of an evaluation of candidates' SOQ by a designated screening committee. The screening committee will use a predetermined evaluation criteria derived from the knowledge, skills, and abilities and desirable qualifications listed on this announcement. Candidates should ensure they are thorough when describing their experience relative to the areas described.

The SOQ may also serve as documentation of the candidate's abilities to present information clearly and concisely in writing, since this is a critical factor to successful job performance. The SOQ will be the only basis for the candidate's final score and rank on the eligible list. Candidates will be ranked competitively, and each candidate will be notified in writing of their examination results.

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 application process. The Hiring Unit Contact is available to answer questions regarding the position.

Department Website: http://www.arb.ca.gov
Human Resources Contact:
Cynthia Lathan
(279) 208-7838
cynthia.lathan@arb.ca.gov
Hiring Unit Contact:
Shahbanou Cashkouli
(279) 208-7501
Shahbanou.Cashkouli@arb.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:
Payam Ahmadi
(279) 208-7110
EEOP@arb.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.

Hard Copy Application Submission

CARB highly recommends electronic application submissions. For those applicants who are unable to submit an electronic application, they may be submitted in paper format and should contain the following information on the first page:
  • The JC number listed on the job posting.
  • The classification title.
  • Current CalCareer I.D. number (from your CalCareer account under the "CalCareer Account" tab).
If submitting hardcopy applications (mail/drop-off), please send an email to recruitment@arb.ca.gov to confirm submission.

NOTE: Applicants must not include Social Security Numbers, LEAP status information or paperwork, Equal Employment Opportunity information, exam result notices or scores, or medical or criminal history information on any document within their application package.

Please do not submit a second application by paper if you submitted an electronic application.

Failure to follow the application instructions may result in your application not being considered for hire.

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.

Application Methods:
Electronic (Using your CalCareer Account)
By Mail
Drop-off
Print Job