Job Posting: Deputy Controller of Public Affairs

State Controller's Office

JC-522824
-
Deputy Controller of Public Affairs
C. E. A.

$12,131.00 - $14,453.00 per Month
New to State candidates will be hired into the minimum salary of the classification or minimum of alternate range when applicable.

Final Filing Date: Until Filled

Job Description and Duties

Under the general direction of the State Controller and Chief of Staff, the Deputy Controller of Public Affairs provides executive leadership over all public affairs functions, including internal and external communications, media strategy, and stewardship of the Controller’s public reputation. They develop and implement communication frameworks that effectively educate the public about the Office’s programs, services, and priorities. They offer strategic counsel to the Controller and senior leadership, oversee a multidisciplinary team, and guide the development of policies and initiatives that advance transparency, accountability, and public trust.

Duties and Responsibilities:

(Candidates must perform the following functions with or without reasonable accommodations.)

 Typical tasks assigned to this position include but are not limited to the following:

  • Represent the State Controller’s constitutional interests by providing executive oversight of both internal and external communications, guiding strategic direction as it corresponds to the agency’s mission;
  • Develop and coordinate work plans associated with the agency’s public affairs needs and manage staff work in media relations, constituent casework, community outreach/education, intergovernmental and public correspondence, research and analysis, speechwriting, and web content;  
  • Originate or modify programs and public policies within the jurisdiction of the State Controller, and develop plans for assessment, design specifications, implementation, and promotion;  
  • Develop and maintain methodologies for the dissemination of information, and provide leadership in the introduction of major changes in programs, policy, services, strategy, and technology;  
  • Proactively provide regular assessments to the State Controller and Chief of Staff regarding program areas, initiatives, and implementation of newly legislated mandates;  
  • Participate in meetings and events on behalf of the State Controller;  
  • Coordinate with other government departments and agencies to maximize collaboration;   
  • Manage budget allocations and expenditures for public affairs activities;   
  • Travel within the state as required.

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

Working Conditions

This position is located at The Emerald Tower on Capitol Mall, steps from Tower Bridge and is walking distance to the State Capitol. The building offers affordable monthly parking, employee gym access, an amenities center, and a beautiful mid-tower garden terrace. It is conveniently situated only blocks from Old Sacramento, numerous restaurants, a seasonal farmer’s market, and the Crocker Art Museum. Overlooking the Golden 1 Arena and Downtown Commons, the office is accessible from Sacramento Regional Transit’s light rail and bus systems, with convenient access to I-5, I-80, US 50 & US 99.

This position is eligible for hybrid telework under California Government Code Section 14200 for eligible applicants residing in California. All telework schedules are subject to change and may be reevaluated at any time. Specific telework arrangements may be discussed in more detail with the respective hiring manager. Telework does not change the terms and conditions of employment, the essential functions of job duties, or required compliance with the State Controller's Office policies. 

In July 2025, the State of California implemented the Personal Leave Program (PLP) 2025. This program temporarily reduces employees’ monthly base pay in exchange for paid leave credits. This position is subject to PLP 2025 and will have a monthly base pay reduction of 3% in exchange for 5 hours of leave credits through June 2027. The salary ranges shown on this job posting do not reflect the salary reduction.

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-522824
Position #(s):
051-720-7500-010
Working Title:
Deputy Controller of Public Affairs
Classification:
C. E. A.
$12,131.00 - $14,453.00 B

Salary Competitive and Commensurate with experience.  

New to State candidates will be hired into the minimum salary of the classification or minimum of alternate range when applicable.
# of Positions:
1
Work Location:
Sacramento County
Telework:
Hybrid
Job Type:
Career Executive Assignment - Non Tenured, Full Time
Facility:
Executive Office

Department Information

The State Controller is the Chief Fiscal Officer for the fourth largest economy in the world, which independently oversees and manages California’s financial resources with integrity and transparency to build trust. As one of the most influential fiscal institutions in the nation, we produce California’s annual financial reports, audit all claims against the state prior to payment, ensure return on investment for taxpayer dollars and influence statewide financial policy to transform communities, empower individuals and families and strengthen businesses so that everyone thrives.

The Executive Office (EO) of the California State Controller’s Office is the strategic center point driving the vision and mission of the department. The EO coordinates high-level initiatives, manages key stakeholder relationships, and oversees the implementation of policies and procedures that shape California’s financial landscape. If you’re passionate about public service, policy development, and human resources, this division offers the opportunity to advance your career in a dynamic and impactful environment. Join a team where your insights and contributions will help drive excellence in administrative and financial management.

We encourage you to join and become a T.R.U.S.T.E.D. partner in the California State Controller’s Office (SCO) where employees are driven by purpose, energized by complexity, believe in accountability, and committed to impact.

Take the next step in your career with an organization that values innovation, integrity, and the well-being of its employees. Apply today and build a California where everyone thrives!

Visit our website to learn more about the State Controller’s Office.

How did you hear about us? Take our survey!

Special Requirements

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:

 

  1. Completed current version of the State Examination/Employment Application STD. Form 678 (when not applied 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; solely referring to the resume for information (i.e., “See Resume”) is not acceptable. The Job Control number and examination title (JC – 522824 Deputy Controller, Public Affairs, CEA Level B) must be indicated on the application.
  2. Resume is required and must be included. A Resume does not take the place of the completed STD. 678 application.
  3. Statement of Qualifications (SOQ) - Statement of Qualification (SOQ) is required and instructions for the SOQ can be found under the "Examination Information” section located in this bulletin.

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 Controller's Office
Human Resources
Attn: Kelli Simpkin
300 Capitol Mall 3rd Floor, Ste 300
Sacramento, CA 95814

Address for Drop-Off Application Packages

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

State Controller's Office
Human Resources
Kelli Simpkin
300 Capitol Mall 3rd Floor, Ste 300
Sacramento, CA 95814
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 -

    Please see Examination Information section for instructions.

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:

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:

 

  • Knowledge of the organization and functions of California State Government including the organization and practices of the Legislature, the Executive Branch, and the Constitutional Offices;
  • Demonstrable knowledge of state policies, rules, and standards relative to Public Administration;
  • Demonstrable understanding of Public Policy development;
  • Experience in developing communication strategies, policies, press releases, talking points, speeches, etc.;
  • Experience in relationship development with news outlets such as radio, television, newspaper, etc.;
  • Demonstrable writing skills;
  • Experience as a recognized spokesperson for an organization.

Examination Information

This examination consists of an evaluation of your Statement of Qualifications (SOQ), weighted 100%. A departmental evaluation panel will review and score the SOQ and your performance in the examination will be assessed based on the quality and thoroughness of your SOQ, specifically how it aligns with the Desirable Qualifications and how your education, training, experience, and skills qualify you for the position.  The SOQ serves as documentation of each candidate's ability to present information clearly and concisely in writing.

 

STATEMENT OF QUALIFICATIONS INSTRUCTIONS

The Statement of Qualifications (SOQ) should include detailed and concise information specifically addressing how the candidate's education, training, experience, and competencies relate to each of the items listed; responses should be high-level, but specific enough to provide the general nature of the services provided and involvement in the oversight.

 

The SOQ items must be numbered and addressed in the same order as listed; do not consolidate the responses. The SOQ should be no more than three pages in length, single-spaced, with one-inch margins and a minimum font size of Arial 12. 
Applicants who fail to submit the SOQ as instructed may be eliminated from the examination/hiring process.


Your SOQ must provide responses and specific examples for each item listed below to be considered for the position:

 

1. Can you share your experience overseeing managers or supervisors, and explain how that responsibility strengthened your understanding of personnel management, staff motivation and development, and principles or trends in public administration and organizational management?

2. What executive-level experience do you have in designing and leading strategic messaging, branding frameworks, or public-facing communication initiatives that support organizational priorities and help the public understand complex policy or fiscal issues?

3. Can you describe a time when you advised executive leadership and collaborated with subject matter experts to develop high-quality communications, briefing materials, research products, or public engagement strategies for both internal decision-making and external audiences?

4. What experience do you have overseeing the development, implementation, or management of digital communications tools and platforms, such as websites, social media, stakeholder outreach systems, or virtual engagement formats?

5. How have you applied analytical and strategic thinking—particularly the integration of research findings or data insights—to shape communications, stakeholder engagement, or policy development efforts?

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

The SCO offers a workplace that balances productivity with enjoyment; promotes an atmosphere of mutual respect, dedication, and enthusiasm.  We offer competitive benefits and flexible opportunities:

  • Excellent health, dental and vision benefits for employee/employee’s family
  • 401K and 457(b) retirement
  • Flexible Schedules
  • Hybrid telework
  • Paid Holidays and vacation/leave
  • Tax-advantage savings and spending accounts
  • Free Employee Assistance Program
  • Investment in your training and development

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:
Kelli Simpkin
(916) 322-2791
ksimpkin@sco.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:
SCO EEO Officer
(916) 324-2223
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.

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