Job Posting: Chief Data and Artificial Intelligence Officer

Ca Health & Human Services Agency

JC-497409
-
Chief Data and Artificial Intelligence Officer
C. E. A.

$13,472.00 - $15,297.00 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 Agency Chief Information Officer (CIO), the incumbent serves as the Chief Data and Artificial Intelligence Officer (CDAO), CEA-C. This position provides strategic leadership for the development and implementation of a comprehensive Data and AI program aligned with the transformative goals outlined in the CalHHS IT and Data Strategic Plan.

The CDAO leads the advancement of enterprise data, analytics and Artificial Intelligence (AI) policies and capabilities to support strategic priorities. The incumbent collaborates with CalHHS Agency, CalHHS Departments, and Office teams to design and operationalize strategies, policies, and solutions that promote the ethical, inclusive, and effective use of data and AI. These efforts support the delivery of person-centered, holistic health and human services that enhance access, quality, and affordability.

Through collaboration with CalHHS Agency and its departments, the CDAO identifies, prioritizes and implements initiatives that strengthens the collective data and technology ecosystem, oversees enterprise data planning, governance, data management and data quality efforts, and drives the development of internal talent, fostering a strong data and analytics culture across CalHHS. The incumbent also performs parallel functions for AI and other emerging technologies and builds the necessary trust-based relationships with stakeholders inside and outside of State government to promote transparency, innovation, and responsible AI usage and data sharing

In all activities, the CDAO ensures that data and AI initiatives support the Agency’s mission of advancing a healthy California for all.

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

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-497409
Position #(s):
799-300-7500-001
Working Title:
Chief Data and Artificial Intelligence Officer
Classification:
C. E. A.
$13,472.00 - $15,297.00 C
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

Department Information

The California Health and Human Services Office of Technology and Solutions Integration (CalHHS OTSI) provides project management, oversight, procurement, and support services for a multi-billion-dollar portfolio of high criticality projects. We are passionate about the people of California who receive vital health and human services by the successful delivery of our large, complex information technology (IT) systems. We are a trusted leader and work toward common goals by sharing knowledge, learning, and building consensus to implement solutions.

Whether you’re interested in the field of IT or administrative support services, we offer excellent opportunities and a collaborative work environment. So, come build a career at the CalHHS OTSI!

Headquartered in the Natomas area of Sacramento, we offer free parking, many convenient shopping and dining options, a comfortable work environment and beautiful office facilities.
Check out our jobs website and social media sites:

Linked In

www.osi.ca.gov
Department Website: https://www.chhs.ca.gov

Special Requirements

Please Note: A Statement of Qualifications (SOQ) is required and must be included. Please see the Examination Information section of this job advertisement for detailed instructions for the SOQ submission. Applicants who do not submit a SOQ or follow the instructions will be eliminated from the Examination process.

Do not include any confidential information in any documents (i.e., application, resume, or transcripts) you submit for this job vacancy.Confidential information that should be excluded or removed from these documents include but is not limited to: Social Security Number(SSN), birthday and/or age, photos, student/other ID number, driver’s license number (unless required), basis of eligibility, exam results,LEAP status, and marital status. Confidential information submitted via a CalCareer Account (electronic application) is automaticallyredacted upon submission.

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:

Ca Health & Human Services Agency
Mail option
Attn: Jessica Alvarado, CEA/Exempt Unit, Personnel Bureau
P. O. Box 944243, MS 8-15-58
Sacramento, CA 94244-2430

Address for Drop-Off Application Packages

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

Ca Health & Human Services Agency
Drop off option
Jessica Alvarado, CEA/Exempt Unit, Personnel Bureau
Department of Social Services
744 P Street, MS 8-15-58
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 optional. It may be included, but is not required.
  • Statement of Qualifications - A Statement of Qualifications (SOQ) is required and must be included. Please see the Examination Information section of this job advertisement for detailed instructions for the SOQ submission. Applicants who do not submit a SOQ or follow the instructions will be eliminated from the Examination process.
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:
1. Strategic Leadership
Demonstrated ability to set and lead enterprise-wide strategies spanning technology, data, and organizational considerations, including defining priorities, success measures, and an operating model that aligns with mission-driven goals. Experience applying this in complex, multi-department/entity environments is desirable.
2.Innovation Mindset and Emerging Technology Acumen
Ability to identify, assess, and leverage emerging technologies and analytics solutions to improve business outcomes, enhance public service delivery, and drive continuous improvement across a large enterprise. Capable of advancing innovation within environments that balance modernization with public accountability, equity, and policy considerations.
3. Enterprise Data Governance & Management Expertise
Deep experience in data governance, data quality, data integration, and enterprise data management to improve data usability, facilitate appropriate data sharing, advance data-informed decision-making, and support evidence-based programs and person-centered service delivery. Experience navigating the policy, privacy, and operational considerations common in governmental or other highly decentralized organizations is beneficial.
4. AI and Advanced Analytics Leadership
Demonstrated experience leading or overseeing the responsible development, deployment, and governance of AI and advanced analytics solutions, including alignment with enterprise architecture, security standards, and regulatory requirements. Ability to promote innovation and scalable adoption within mission-driven, risk-conscious environments such as public sector or other highly regulated organizations.
5. Policy, Ethics, and Regulatory Compliance Knowledge
Strong understanding of data and AI ethics, privacy, risk management, and compliance frameworks, with the ability to develop policies that ensure transparency, equity, and responsible use of data and AI. Experience applying these principles within a context where statutory, procurement, and regulatory oversight requirements are higher, such as public the public sector, is preferred.
6 Cross-Functional Leadership & Stakeholder Collaboration
Proven ability to build trust and lead collaboration across diverse stakeholder groups—including departments, executives, program leaders, researchers, and external partners—to foster a coordinated, person-centered data ecosystem. Able to effectively represent the organization in internal and external forums, including those involving government, community, and policy stakeholders.
7. Change Management & Workforce Development
Experience driving organizational culture change to strengthen data and AI literacy and readiness at scale. Skilled at developing training, supporting adoption of data governance and AI practices, and building a data-driven environment in settings with varying levels of digital and data maturity.

Examination Information

The examination process will consist of a Statement of Qualifications (SOQ) evaluation. Please note there is not an online examination for the CEA classification.

The SOQ will be used to evaluate your qualifications as they relate to the “Desirable Qualifications” listed above and will also serve as documentation of each candidate’s ability to present information clearly and concisely in writing, as this is a critical factor for successful job performance. The SOQ will be the only basis for your final score and rank on the eligible list.

Statement of Qualifications

Prepare a statement of qualifications (SOQ) that addresses each of the following questions, highlighting how your work experience and capabilities align with the Desirable Qualifications included in this posting.

When completing the SOQ, applications must folow these guidelines:

Your response must not exceed two (2) typewritten pages, Arial font, not less than 10 pt font.

1. State government leaders must drive enterprise strategy, enable responsible innovation, and deliver measurable public value across departments and stakeholder groups. Describe a major enterprise initiative you led that integrated technology and data to improve outcomes across a large, multi-department environment.

2. Effective statewide data leadership requires strong governance, responsible data sharing, and the ability to use data to drive decisions, improve services, and uphold policy and privacy obligations across a decentralized environment. Describe a significant enterprise data initiative you led that strengthened data governance, quality, integration, or data management to improve the usability and sharing of data across departments or programs.

3. Public-sector AI leadership requires advancing innovation while ensuring responsible, compliant, and ethical use of data and advanced analytics across a mission-driven and highly regulated environment. Describe an initiative you led involving AI or advanced analytics that required responsible development, deployment, or governance at an enterprise level.

4. Enterprise data and AI transformation in government requires cross-department collaboration, culture change, and building workforce readiness to support a coordinated, person-centered data ecosystem. Describe a major cross-functional initiative you led and how you handled collaboration and change management across diverse stakeholders to strengthen data and/or AI capabilities at scale.

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 position or application process.

Department Website: https://www.chhs.ca.gov
Human Resources Contact:
Jessica Alvarado
(916) 926-7871
jessica.alvarado@dss.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:
EEO Office
(916) 657-2326
EEOoffice@dss.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.

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.