What are the responsibilities and job description for the COMMUNITY PROGRAM SPECIALIST II position at California Department of Developmental Services?
Job Description And Duties
The Community Program Specialist II (CPS II) functions as a full journey person in monitoring, providing training and technical support to local programs implementing Medicaid funded programs, including but not limited to, the Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS), State Plan Amendments, Targeted Case Management and other monitoring assignments. As part of a state team using standardized review protocols, the CPS II will travel to programs throughout California to conduct reviews and interview key stakeholders, including individuals and/or their families served by the CA Developmental Disabilities service delivery system, and develop reports detailing these reviews. The incumbent will also be responsible for reviewing, evaluating, drafting and interpreting policies, and regulations, in addition to acting as a lead on various projects which includes the presentation of data and reports in internal and external meetings.
Effective July 1, 2025, State employees are subject to a salary reduction of three percent in exchange for five hours per month of the Personal Leave.
You will find additional information about the job in the Duty Statement .
Working Conditions
Under Government Code 14200, this position is a hybrid, in-office/telework position, and may be subject to change. Incumbent can be required to report to the office, or any designated location at any time. Telework agreements can be modified and/or cancelled at any time. All commute expenses to the reporting location will be the responsibility of the selected candidate.
Pursuant to California Government Code requirements, candidates must be residents of the State of California at the time of appointment.
This position requires lawful authorization to work in the United States. The Department does not sponsor employment visas for this position.
The incumbent primarily performs duties using a computer or laptop, including participating in meetings and reviewing documents and work materials. Occasional in-office work is required, with duties carried out in an open, partitioned office environment in close proximity to colleagues. Travel is required for up to approximately 25 percent of the time to various program locations throughout California for monitoring, technical assistance, and onsite meetings, which may include consecutive days requiring overnight stays.
Position Details
Job Code #:
JC-512373
Position #(s):
472-571-8352-005
Working Title:
CPS II
Classification:
COMMUNITY PROGRAM SPECIALIST II
$6,031.00 - $7,547.00
New to State candidates will be hired into the minimum salary of the classification or minimum of alternate range when applicable.
Shall Consider:
ANALYST II
$6,031.00 - $7,547.00 A
# of Positions:
1
Work Location:
Sacramento County
Telework:
Hybrid
Job Type:
Permanent, Full Time
Facility:
Department of Developmental Services
Department Information
The California Department of Developmental Services (Department) is the agency through which the State of California provides services and supports to individuals with developmental disabilities.
These disabilities include intellectual disability, cerebral palsy, epilepsy, autism and related conditions. Services are provided through state-operated developmental centers and community facilities, and contracts with 21 nonprofit regional centers. The regional centers serve as a local resource to help find and access the services and supports available to individuals with developmental disabilities and their families.
The Department Is Located In a Modern, Sustainable And Innovative Office Building At 1215 “O” Street, Sacramento, California. Some Amenities Of The Building Include:
Special Requirements
The Statement of Qualifications (SOQ) must be numbered in the same order as the following areas, typed in 12-point Arial font, single spaced, and be no more than two pages in length. Applicants who fail to answer the questions or submit an SOQ may not be considered.
The MQs will be verified prior to interview and/or appointment. If it is determined that an applicant does not meet the MQs of the classification, the applicant may not be considered and withheld from the eligible list.
Application Instructions
Completed applications and all required documents must be received or postmarked by the Final Filing Date in order to be considered. 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: 4/3/2026
Who May Apply
Individuals who are currently in the classification, eligible for lateral transfer, eligible for reinstatement, have list or LEAP eligibility, are in the process of obtaining list eligibility, or have SROA and/or Surplus eligibility (please attach your letter, if available). SROA and Surplus candidates are given priority; therefore, individuals with other eligibility may be considered in the event no SROA or Surplus candidates apply.
Applications will be screened and only the most qualified applicants will be selected to move forward in the selection process. Applicants must meet the Minimum Qualifications stated in the Classification Specification(s).
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:
Department of Developmental Services - Headquarters
N/A
Attn: Mimi Hairford
Cert Unit
1215 O Street, MS 10-40
Sacramento , CA 95814
Address for Drop-Off Application Packages
You may drop off your application and any applicable or required documents at:
Department of Developmental Services - Headquarters
N/A
Mimi Hairford
Cert Unit
1215 O Street, MS 10-40
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:
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:
Knowledge of : The Lanterman Act and developmental disabilities service system. Microsoft Word Office Suite, Windows and related software. Proficiency in Microsoft Word and Excel is required. The successful applicant will have skills and experience working with people in a teamwork environment. Knowledge of analytical methods is essential to the successful performance of job duties. Knowledge of human service systems and agencies is also essential to the successful performance of the job duties.
Ability to : Read and interpret laws and regulations; to present data and reports in public and in meetings; evaluate and solve problems accurately and take effective action; write clear and comprehensive reports; adhere to office policies and procedures related to the protection of confidential information; meet and deal respectfully with the public; establish and maintain effective working relations with others; apply specific laws, rules and office policies and procedures. Must be able to perform the essential job functions and adhere to professional conduct at all times; must be able to self-direct for timely project completion; and must maintain regular attendance. Driver’s License highly recommended as position requires travel throughout the State of California.
Benefits
As a state employee working for the Department of Developmental Services, you and your family will have access to excellent medical, dental and vision insurance benefits in addition to retirement benefits.
Benefit Eligibility May Be Based On Job Classification, Bargaining Unit, Time Base And Length Of Appointment. Additional Benefits May Also Be Outlined For Specific Bargaining Units In Employee Collective Bargaining Contracts. For More Information, Please Visit The Links Below:
State Employees - CalHR Benefits Website
CalPERS Health Benefit Summary 2026
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: http://www.dds.ca.gov
Human Resources Contact:
Mimi Hairford
(916) 654-3378
mimi.hairford@dds.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:
Equal Employment Opportunity Office
(916) 654-1888
OHRAS@dds.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.
Additional Information
Electronic application submission is highly encouraged.
Multiple positions may be filled from this recruitment. This recruitment may be utilized to fill future vacancies that may occur during the life of the certification list.
Possession of Minimum Qualifications will be verified prior to interview and/or appointment. If you are meeting Minimum Qualifications with education, you must include your unofficial transcripts/diploma for verification. Official transcripts may be required upon appointment. If it is determined an applicant does not meet the Minimum Qualifications, the candidate may be withheld from the eligibility list, rendering them inactive and ineligible to be hired for the position. Candidates who have been withheld may file an appeal with the California Department of Human Resources.
All appointments are subject to State Restriction of Appointment (SROA), Departmental Restriction of Appointment (DROA), Re-employment List procedures, pre-employment physical and fingerprint clearances. Further information on the definition of the above may be found on the California Department of Human Resources' website at: www.calhr.ca.gov .
If you have not taken the Community Program Specialist II exam/assessment you may find the exam for this classification at the link below. You must take and pass the exam/assessment to obtain eligibility for hire. Click here to gain list eligibility.
If you have not taken the Analyst II exam/assessment you may find the exam for this classification at the link below. You must take and pass the exam/assessment to obtain eligibility for hire. Click here to gain list eligibility.
Remove Any Confidential Information
Do not include any confidential information on any documents you submit for a job vacancy, such as your State application, resume, or educational transcripts.
Confidential information that should be excluded or removed from these documents includes, but is not limited to, your Social Security Number (SSN), birthdate, student identification number, driver’s license number (unless required), basis of eligibility, examination results, LEAP status, marital status, and age. Confidential information on the first page of applications submitted electronically online, such as Easy ID number, SSN, examination related information, and driver’s license number will automatically be redacted upon submission.
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.
The Community Program Specialist II (CPS II) functions as a full journey person in monitoring, providing training and technical support to local programs implementing Medicaid funded programs, including but not limited to, the Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS), State Plan Amendments, Targeted Case Management and other monitoring assignments. As part of a state team using standardized review protocols, the CPS II will travel to programs throughout California to conduct reviews and interview key stakeholders, including individuals and/or their families served by the CA Developmental Disabilities service delivery system, and develop reports detailing these reviews. The incumbent will also be responsible for reviewing, evaluating, drafting and interpreting policies, and regulations, in addition to acting as a lead on various projects which includes the presentation of data and reports in internal and external meetings.
Effective July 1, 2025, State employees are subject to a salary reduction of three percent in exchange for five hours per month of the Personal Leave.
You will find additional information about the job in the Duty Statement .
Working Conditions
Under Government Code 14200, this position is a hybrid, in-office/telework position, and may be subject to change. Incumbent can be required to report to the office, or any designated location at any time. Telework agreements can be modified and/or cancelled at any time. All commute expenses to the reporting location will be the responsibility of the selected candidate.
Pursuant to California Government Code requirements, candidates must be residents of the State of California at the time of appointment.
This position requires lawful authorization to work in the United States. The Department does not sponsor employment visas for this position.
The incumbent primarily performs duties using a computer or laptop, including participating in meetings and reviewing documents and work materials. Occasional in-office work is required, with duties carried out in an open, partitioned office environment in close proximity to colleagues. Travel is required for up to approximately 25 percent of the time to various program locations throughout California for monitoring, technical assistance, and onsite meetings, which may include consecutive days requiring overnight stays.
Position Details
Job Code #:
JC-512373
Position #(s):
472-571-8352-005
Working Title:
CPS II
Classification:
COMMUNITY PROGRAM SPECIALIST II
$6,031.00 - $7,547.00
New to State candidates will be hired into the minimum salary of the classification or minimum of alternate range when applicable.
Shall Consider:
ANALYST II
$6,031.00 - $7,547.00 A
# of Positions:
1
Work Location:
Sacramento County
Telework:
Hybrid
Job Type:
Permanent, Full Time
Facility:
Department of Developmental Services
Department Information
The California Department of Developmental Services (Department) is the agency through which the State of California provides services and supports to individuals with developmental disabilities.
These disabilities include intellectual disability, cerebral palsy, epilepsy, autism and related conditions. Services are provided through state-operated developmental centers and community facilities, and contracts with 21 nonprofit regional centers. The regional centers serve as a local resource to help find and access the services and supports available to individuals with developmental disabilities and their families.
The Department Is Located In a Modern, Sustainable And Innovative Office Building At 1215 “O” Street, Sacramento, California. Some Amenities Of The Building Include:
- First floor retail space (separate access from 12 th Street)
- Café with multiple vendors
- Outdoor seating for meal breaks
- Employee fitness center which includes a yoga studio, cardio equipment and weights
- Plaza area with kitchenette on each floor
- Lactation rooms
Special Requirements
The Statement of Qualifications (SOQ) must be numbered in the same order as the following areas, typed in 12-point Arial font, single spaced, and be no more than two pages in length. Applicants who fail to answer the questions or submit an SOQ may not be considered.
- What experience do you have working with statutes and regulations and their interpretations? Did you provide monitoring and/or oversight of those statues and regulations?
- What is your understanding of and/or experience with the California service delivery system for persons with developmental disabilities?
The MQs will be verified prior to interview and/or appointment. If it is determined that an applicant does not meet the MQs of the classification, the applicant may not be considered and withheld from the eligible list.
Application Instructions
Completed applications and all required documents must be received or postmarked by the Final Filing Date in order to be considered. 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: 4/3/2026
Who May Apply
Individuals who are currently in the classification, eligible for lateral transfer, eligible for reinstatement, have list or LEAP eligibility, are in the process of obtaining list eligibility, or have SROA and/or Surplus eligibility (please attach your letter, if available). SROA and Surplus candidates are given priority; therefore, individuals with other eligibility may be considered in the event no SROA or Surplus candidates apply.
Applications will be screened and only the most qualified applicants will be selected to move forward in the selection process. Applicants must meet the Minimum Qualifications stated in the Classification Specification(s).
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:
Department of Developmental Services - Headquarters
N/A
Attn: Mimi Hairford
Cert Unit
1215 O Street, MS 10-40
Sacramento , CA 95814
Address for Drop-Off Application Packages
You may drop off your application and any applicable or required documents at:
Department of Developmental Services - Headquarters
N/A
Mimi Hairford
Cert Unit
1215 O Street, MS 10-40
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 is a narrative discussion of how the candidate's education, training, experience, and skills meet the minimum and desirable qualifications and qualify them for the position. The SOQ serves as a documentation of each candidate's ability to present information clearly and concisely in writing. SEE “SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS” ABOVE FOR INSTRUCTIONS.
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:
Knowledge of : The Lanterman Act and developmental disabilities service system. Microsoft Word Office Suite, Windows and related software. Proficiency in Microsoft Word and Excel is required. The successful applicant will have skills and experience working with people in a teamwork environment. Knowledge of analytical methods is essential to the successful performance of job duties. Knowledge of human service systems and agencies is also essential to the successful performance of the job duties.
Ability to : Read and interpret laws and regulations; to present data and reports in public and in meetings; evaluate and solve problems accurately and take effective action; write clear and comprehensive reports; adhere to office policies and procedures related to the protection of confidential information; meet and deal respectfully with the public; establish and maintain effective working relations with others; apply specific laws, rules and office policies and procedures. Must be able to perform the essential job functions and adhere to professional conduct at all times; must be able to self-direct for timely project completion; and must maintain regular attendance. Driver’s License highly recommended as position requires travel throughout the State of California.
Benefits
As a state employee working for the Department of Developmental Services, you and your family will have access to excellent medical, dental and vision insurance benefits in addition to retirement benefits.
Benefit Eligibility May Be Based On Job Classification, Bargaining Unit, Time Base And Length Of Appointment. Additional Benefits May Also Be Outlined For Specific Bargaining Units In Employee Collective Bargaining Contracts. For More Information, Please Visit The Links Below:
State Employees - CalHR Benefits Website
CalPERS Health Benefit Summary 2026
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: http://www.dds.ca.gov
Human Resources Contact:
Mimi Hairford
(916) 654-3378
mimi.hairford@dds.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:
Equal Employment Opportunity Office
(916) 654-1888
OHRAS@dds.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.
Additional Information
Electronic application submission is highly encouraged.
Multiple positions may be filled from this recruitment. This recruitment may be utilized to fill future vacancies that may occur during the life of the certification list.
Possession of Minimum Qualifications will be verified prior to interview and/or appointment. If you are meeting Minimum Qualifications with education, you must include your unofficial transcripts/diploma for verification. Official transcripts may be required upon appointment. If it is determined an applicant does not meet the Minimum Qualifications, the candidate may be withheld from the eligibility list, rendering them inactive and ineligible to be hired for the position. Candidates who have been withheld may file an appeal with the California Department of Human Resources.
All appointments are subject to State Restriction of Appointment (SROA), Departmental Restriction of Appointment (DROA), Re-employment List procedures, pre-employment physical and fingerprint clearances. Further information on the definition of the above may be found on the California Department of Human Resources' website at: www.calhr.ca.gov .
If you have not taken the Community Program Specialist II exam/assessment you may find the exam for this classification at the link below. You must take and pass the exam/assessment to obtain eligibility for hire. Click here to gain list eligibility.
If you have not taken the Analyst II exam/assessment you may find the exam for this classification at the link below. You must take and pass the exam/assessment to obtain eligibility for hire. Click here to gain list eligibility.
Remove Any Confidential Information
Do not include any confidential information on any documents you submit for a job vacancy, such as your State application, resume, or educational transcripts.
Confidential information that should be excluded or removed from these documents includes, but is not limited to, your Social Security Number (SSN), birthdate, student identification number, driver’s license number (unless required), basis of eligibility, examination results, LEAP status, marital status, and age. Confidential information on the first page of applications submitted electronically online, such as Easy ID number, SSN, examination related information, and driver’s license number will automatically be redacted upon submission.
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.
Salary : $6,031 - $7,547