What are the responsibilities and job description for the PSYCHIATRIC TECHNICIAN ASSISTANT position at California Department of Developmental Services?
Job Description And Duties
At the Department of Developmental Services (Department) State-Operated Facilities Division (SOFD), we are always looking for innovating approaches to meet evolving needs of our staff and consumers. The Stabilization Training Assistance Re-Integration (STAR) homes are staffed 24/7 and provide individuals with Intellectual/Developmental Disabilities experiencing an acute crisis, to live and learn in an environment that will enable them to successfully return home or transition to less restrictive living settings in the community. The staff within the home strive to empower individuals through person centered approaches to lead self-determined lives. STAR currently provides assistance to adolescents (11-17 years old) and adults (18 years of age and older) who are receiving regional center services. The STAR homes are four to five bed homes in community settings (Vacaville, Springville, and Costa Mesa).
If you are looking for a job that allows you to make a positive impact on individuals, the STAR homes will be a great place to work. We are seeking individuals that will engage individuals with a wide range of interests, while modeling safe and healthy living behaviors in a home environment. The Psychiatric Technician Assistant (PTA) provides general behavioral training and psychiatric nursing care to STAR consumers. The PTA will perform on-site direct care, training, and participate in recreational activities with consumers. The PTA will provide cross-training to the consumer’s community home staff or family to maintain a continuity of care. PTA will be responsible for maintaining credentials in required of a Psychiatric Technician Assistant license and attend required trainings.
DDS now offers an entrance salary rate of $3800.00 for this classification.
Effective October 1, 2025, State employees are subject to a salary reduction of three percent in exchange for five hours per month of the Personal Leave Program.
The Department invites job seekers to a free career fair on April 7, 2026, from 10 am to 2 pm in the lobby of the Allenby building, located at 1215 O St, Sacramento, CA 95814. There are several parking lots as well as City of Sacramento meter parking available in the around the building and downtown area. Prices may vary. The nearest Regional Transit station is located less than a block west of our location at Archives Plaza (Stop ID 7034).
Take the next step in your career as a Psychiatric Technician Assistant and apply today to be part of an impactful and rewarding profession. This event offers a great opportunity as we will be conducting onsite interviews, allowing qualified candidates to connect directly with hiring teams, ask questions, and potentially move forward in the hiring process the same day. Don’t miss your chance to showcase your skills, learn more about the role, and take a meaningful step toward a career dedicated to supporting individuals with mental and behavioral health needs.
If you’re interested, register by clicking the link below to secure your spot and take advantage of the opportunity to participate in onsite interviews at the event.
Registration Link: https://forms.office.com/g/tXwcxsg98H
You will find additional information about the job in the Duty Statement .
Working Conditions
On-going interaction with consumers with, developmental disabilities and/or severe psychiatric and behavioral conditions at STAR residence and community activities. Potential exposure to communicable diseases, blood-borne pathogens, medicinal preparations, and other conditions common to a clinical nursing environment. Work may include planned and scheduled travel with possible over-night stays. May be required to work mandatory overtime as needed to meet staffing requirements.
This position requires lawful authorization to work in the United States. The Department does not sponsor employment visas for this position.
Pursuant to California Government Code requirements, candidates must be residents of the State of California at the time of appointment.
Position Details
Job Code #:
JC-503097
Position #(s):
472-712-7425-XXX
Working Title:
PSYCHIATRIC TECHNICIAN ASSISTANT
Classification:
PSYCHIATRIC TECHNICIAN ASSISTANT
$3,800.00 - $4,360.00
New to State candidates will be hired into the minimum salary of the classification or minimum of alternate range when applicable.
# of Positions:
Multiple
Work Location:
Solano County
Telework:
In Office
Job Type:
Permanent, Full Time
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.
Please direct questions to: ddsstarrecruitment@dds.ca.gov
Department Website: http://www.dds.ca.gov
Special Requirements
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 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: Aira Dandoy
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
Aira Dandoy
Cert Unit
1215 O Street, MS 10-40
Sacramento , CA 95814
08:00 AM - 04:30 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 : Basic nursing care methods and techniques. Must be competent in the areas of cultural sensitivity for the population being served, positive behavioral supports, trauma informed care, coaching skills training, person-centered practices and utilizing less restrictive techniques to address behavioral issues. Must have at least six months' prior experience providing direct care to individuals with developmental disabilities who have challenging behavior service needs and maintain sufficient strength, agility, endurance, and sensory ability to perform the duties contained in this duty statement.
Ability to : Work with consumers with developmental disabilities (e.g. autistic spectrum disorder, intellectual disability) and severe behavioral (e.g. aggression, self-injurious behavior, property destruction, and elopement) and psychiatric conditions and symptoms (e.g. psychosis, mood disorders, PTSD, and suicidal ideation). Must be able to lift 50 pounds without assistance and complete all required training and perform and be competent in self-defense and hands-on intervention training, including two-person wall containment with resistive consumers.
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.
Additional Information
The cut-off dates for this job posting is are:
03/10/2026
03/24/2026
04/07/2026
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.
If you have not taken the Psychiatric Technician Assistant 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.
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.
At the Department of Developmental Services (Department) State-Operated Facilities Division (SOFD), we are always looking for innovating approaches to meet evolving needs of our staff and consumers. The Stabilization Training Assistance Re-Integration (STAR) homes are staffed 24/7 and provide individuals with Intellectual/Developmental Disabilities experiencing an acute crisis, to live and learn in an environment that will enable them to successfully return home or transition to less restrictive living settings in the community. The staff within the home strive to empower individuals through person centered approaches to lead self-determined lives. STAR currently provides assistance to adolescents (11-17 years old) and adults (18 years of age and older) who are receiving regional center services. The STAR homes are four to five bed homes in community settings (Vacaville, Springville, and Costa Mesa).
If you are looking for a job that allows you to make a positive impact on individuals, the STAR homes will be a great place to work. We are seeking individuals that will engage individuals with a wide range of interests, while modeling safe and healthy living behaviors in a home environment. The Psychiatric Technician Assistant (PTA) provides general behavioral training and psychiatric nursing care to STAR consumers. The PTA will perform on-site direct care, training, and participate in recreational activities with consumers. The PTA will provide cross-training to the consumer’s community home staff or family to maintain a continuity of care. PTA will be responsible for maintaining credentials in required of a Psychiatric Technician Assistant license and attend required trainings.
DDS now offers an entrance salary rate of $3800.00 for this classification.
Effective October 1, 2025, State employees are subject to a salary reduction of three percent in exchange for five hours per month of the Personal Leave Program.
The Department invites job seekers to a free career fair on April 7, 2026, from 10 am to 2 pm in the lobby of the Allenby building, located at 1215 O St, Sacramento, CA 95814. There are several parking lots as well as City of Sacramento meter parking available in the around the building and downtown area. Prices may vary. The nearest Regional Transit station is located less than a block west of our location at Archives Plaza (Stop ID 7034).
Take the next step in your career as a Psychiatric Technician Assistant and apply today to be part of an impactful and rewarding profession. This event offers a great opportunity as we will be conducting onsite interviews, allowing qualified candidates to connect directly with hiring teams, ask questions, and potentially move forward in the hiring process the same day. Don’t miss your chance to showcase your skills, learn more about the role, and take a meaningful step toward a career dedicated to supporting individuals with mental and behavioral health needs.
If you’re interested, register by clicking the link below to secure your spot and take advantage of the opportunity to participate in onsite interviews at the event.
Registration Link: https://forms.office.com/g/tXwcxsg98H
You will find additional information about the job in the Duty Statement .
Working Conditions
On-going interaction with consumers with, developmental disabilities and/or severe psychiatric and behavioral conditions at STAR residence and community activities. Potential exposure to communicable diseases, blood-borne pathogens, medicinal preparations, and other conditions common to a clinical nursing environment. Work may include planned and scheduled travel with possible over-night stays. May be required to work mandatory overtime as needed to meet staffing requirements.
This position requires lawful authorization to work in the United States. The Department does not sponsor employment visas for this position.
Pursuant to California Government Code requirements, candidates must be residents of the State of California at the time of appointment.
Position Details
Job Code #:
JC-503097
Position #(s):
472-712-7425-XXX
Working Title:
PSYCHIATRIC TECHNICIAN ASSISTANT
Classification:
PSYCHIATRIC TECHNICIAN ASSISTANT
$3,800.00 - $4,360.00
New to State candidates will be hired into the minimum salary of the classification or minimum of alternate range when applicable.
# of Positions:
Multiple
Work Location:
Solano County
Telework:
In Office
Job Type:
Permanent, Full Time
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.
Please direct questions to: ddsstarrecruitment@dds.ca.gov
Department Website: http://www.dds.ca.gov
Special Requirements
- The position(s) require(s) a valid California Drivers License (CDL). You must answer the questions addressing your CDL on your application. Ensure you provide your CDL number, class, expiration date, and any endorsements and/or restrictions.
- The position(s) require(s) a Drug Screening be passed prior to being hired.
- The position(s) require(s) a Background Investigation be cleared prior to being hired.
- The position(s) require(s) Medical Clearance prior to being hired.
- The position(s) require(s) a(n) Certified Nurse Assistant Certificate. You will be required to provide a copy of your certificate prior to being hired.
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 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: Aira Dandoy
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
Aira Dandoy
Cert Unit
1215 O Street, MS 10-40
Sacramento , CA 95814
08:00 AM - 04:30 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.
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 : Basic nursing care methods and techniques. Must be competent in the areas of cultural sensitivity for the population being served, positive behavioral supports, trauma informed care, coaching skills training, person-centered practices and utilizing less restrictive techniques to address behavioral issues. Must have at least six months' prior experience providing direct care to individuals with developmental disabilities who have challenging behavior service needs and maintain sufficient strength, agility, endurance, and sensory ability to perform the duties contained in this duty statement.
Ability to : Work with consumers with developmental disabilities (e.g. autistic spectrum disorder, intellectual disability) and severe behavioral (e.g. aggression, self-injurious behavior, property destruction, and elopement) and psychiatric conditions and symptoms (e.g. psychosis, mood disorders, PTSD, and suicidal ideation). Must be able to lift 50 pounds without assistance and complete all required training and perform and be competent in self-defense and hands-on intervention training, including two-person wall containment with resistive consumers.
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.
Additional Information
The cut-off dates for this job posting is are:
03/10/2026
03/24/2026
04/07/2026
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.
If you have not taken the Psychiatric Technician Assistant 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.
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 : $3,800 - $4,360