What are the responsibilities and job description for the Special Investigator position at California Lottery?
Job Description And Duties
Under the supervision of the Supervising Lottery Agent, Special Investigations & Gaming Security, the Special Investigator assures the integrity, honesty, fairness and security in the operation and administration of all gaming systems and personnel systems of the California State Lottery (Lottery), pursuant to Penal Code 830.3(p). Responsible for both general and specific enforcement and security related functions. Incumbent must communicate effectively orally and in writing; read and interpret various codified laws, rules, and regulations.
This position requires a current Special Investigator exam. If you need to take the exam or if your score has expired, click here to gain list eligibility.
This position is headquartered in Sacramento and is eligible for a hybrid telework schedule. Employees must be able to report to their assigned headquarters office as assigned. Travel expense to and from the assigned headquarters are the responsibility of the employee. Eligibility for telework requires the employee to reside in California per California Government Code Section 14200 which states: “telecommuting means the partial or total substitution of computers or telecommunication technologies, or both, for the commute to work by employees residing in California.
When choosing a state organization to work for, there are a lot of options. Why choose the California State Lottery?
People Are Drawn To The Lottery Because We:
It is highly recommended that you apply online using your CalCareers account. It is not necessary to return the contact letter if you applied electronically. Please ensure to monitor your email and/or CalCareers account for communication associated with your application submission.
Effective July 1, 2025, specific Bargaining Units and associated Excluded State employees are subject to a salary reduction between 2% - 4.62% in exchange for hours for Personal Leave hours each month. For more details, please click here to visit the California Department of Human Resources (CalHR) website.
The Lottery is less than 30 minutes from all that Downtown Sacramento has to offer. Amenities include an onsite restaurant, free gym, close to the light rail station, electric car charging stations, and free parking!! Apply today to join a dynamic organization that is not only passionate about its mission, but also its people!!
You will find additional information about the job in the Duty Statement.
Working Conditions
You will find the Minimum Requirements in the Class Specification.
Job Code #:
JC-532601
Position #(s):
358-436-8612-001
Working Title:
Special Investigator
Classification:
SPECIAL INVESTIGATOR
$5,528.00 - $6,863.00 A
$6,310.00 - $8,217.00 B
$6,924.00 - $9,037.00 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:
Permanent, Full Time
Department Information
The California Lottery is a multi-billion-dollar enterprise headquartered in Sacramento. It is one of the few state organizations that is a revenue generator, not accepting taxpayer dollars from the state’s general fund. Our mission is to provide supplemental funding for California’s public schools and colleges. We are passionate about creating a better tomorrow - one child at a time. The mix of talented people within our workplace reflects the rich diversity inherent within the State of California. We celebrate the contributions of each individual and strive to create a work environment that is inclusive, collaborative, and welcoming. We believe in California For All.
In fiscal year 2024-25, the California Lottery generated sales of more than $9.2 billion with approximately $1.9 billion earned for California public schools. Lottery products are sold at more than 23,000 retail locations throughout the state, from independent neighborhood shops to convenience stores, liquor stores to supermarkets, and more. Retail product offerings include an average of 52 fun and entertaining Scratchers® games and several draw games, including jackpot games such as Powerball®, Mega Millions®, and SuperLotto Plus® and daily games such as Fantasy 5 and Hot Spot®.
Department Website: http://www.calottery.com
Special Requirements
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: 10/9/2026
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:
CA State Lottery
N/A
Attn: Human Resources, JC-532601
700 N. 10th Street MS#6-5
Sacramento, CA 95811
Address for Drop-Off Application Packages
You may drop off your application and any applicable or required documents at:
CA State Lottery
N/A
Human Resources, JC-532601
700 N. 10th Street MS#6-5
Sacramento, CA 95811
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:
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.calottery.com
Human Resources Contact:
Human Resources, JC-532601
(916) 822-8158
careers@calottery.com
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) 822-8458
eeooffice@calottery.com
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.
Instructions For Statement Of Qualifications
Please address your knowledge and experience regarding the desirable qualifications.
Sacramento Headquarters
700 N 10th Street
Sacramento, CA 95811
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.
Under the supervision of the Supervising Lottery Agent, Special Investigations & Gaming Security, the Special Investigator assures the integrity, honesty, fairness and security in the operation and administration of all gaming systems and personnel systems of the California State Lottery (Lottery), pursuant to Penal Code 830.3(p). Responsible for both general and specific enforcement and security related functions. Incumbent must communicate effectively orally and in writing; read and interpret various codified laws, rules, and regulations.
This position requires a current Special Investigator exam. If you need to take the exam or if your score has expired, click here to gain list eligibility.
This position is headquartered in Sacramento and is eligible for a hybrid telework schedule. Employees must be able to report to their assigned headquarters office as assigned. Travel expense to and from the assigned headquarters are the responsibility of the employee. Eligibility for telework requires the employee to reside in California per California Government Code Section 14200 which states: “telecommuting means the partial or total substitution of computers or telecommunication technologies, or both, for the commute to work by employees residing in California.
When choosing a state organization to work for, there are a lot of options. Why choose the California State Lottery?
People Are Drawn To The Lottery Because We:
- Are an energetic, creative, and talented team
- Value diversity and inclusion in the workplace
- Empower team members to bring their knowledge, expertise, and innovation
- Recognize individual and team contributions
- Support the importance of work-life balance
- Invest in the professional development of our team members
- Are dedicated to preserving our environment by lowering our carbon footprint
It is highly recommended that you apply online using your CalCareers account. It is not necessary to return the contact letter if you applied electronically. Please ensure to monitor your email and/or CalCareers account for communication associated with your application submission.
Effective July 1, 2025, specific Bargaining Units and associated Excluded State employees are subject to a salary reduction between 2% - 4.62% in exchange for hours for Personal Leave hours each month. For more details, please click here to visit the California Department of Human Resources (CalHR) website.
The Lottery is less than 30 minutes from all that Downtown Sacramento has to offer. Amenities include an onsite restaurant, free gym, close to the light rail station, electric car charging stations, and free parking!! Apply today to join a dynamic organization that is not only passionate about its mission, but also its people!!
You will find additional information about the job in the Duty Statement.
Working Conditions
- Schedule: 8am-5pm M-F
- Travel: Some travel required
- Other: The Special Investigator must be willing to work overtime, odd and irregular hours, nights, weekends, and holidays, in various locations throughout the State; possess a valid California driver’s license and be willing to travel at any time (out-of-state or country travel may be required); be familiar with computer and security hardware systems.
You will find the Minimum Requirements in the Class Specification.
- SPECIAL INVESTIGATOR
- Job Application Package Checklist
- Duty Statement
Job Code #:
JC-532601
Position #(s):
358-436-8612-001
Working Title:
Special Investigator
Classification:
SPECIAL INVESTIGATOR
$5,528.00 - $6,863.00 A
$6,310.00 - $8,217.00 B
$6,924.00 - $9,037.00 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:
Permanent, Full Time
Department Information
The California Lottery is a multi-billion-dollar enterprise headquartered in Sacramento. It is one of the few state organizations that is a revenue generator, not accepting taxpayer dollars from the state’s general fund. Our mission is to provide supplemental funding for California’s public schools and colleges. We are passionate about creating a better tomorrow - one child at a time. The mix of talented people within our workplace reflects the rich diversity inherent within the State of California. We celebrate the contributions of each individual and strive to create a work environment that is inclusive, collaborative, and welcoming. We believe in California For All.
In fiscal year 2024-25, the California Lottery generated sales of more than $9.2 billion with approximately $1.9 billion earned for California public schools. Lottery products are sold at more than 23,000 retail locations throughout the state, from independent neighborhood shops to convenience stores, liquor stores to supermarkets, and more. Retail product offerings include an average of 52 fun and entertaining Scratchers® games and several draw games, including jackpot games such as Powerball®, Mega Millions®, and SuperLotto Plus® and daily games such as Fantasy 5 and Hot Spot®.
Department Website: http://www.calottery.com
Special Requirements
- The California State Lottery Act provides that no person may be hired as an employee of the Commission if that person has been convicted of a felony or any gambling related offense.
- The position requires a Background Investigation be cleared prior to being hired.
- If you are basing your eligibility on education, (http://www.calhr.ca.gov/state-hr-professionals/pages/job-descriptions.aspx), provide your transcripts and/or diploma. Applicants with foreign transcripts must provide a transcript evaluation that indicates the number of units to which the foreign course work is equivalent. Transcripts and evaluations may be unofficial; official transcripts will be required upon appointment. Please redact birthdates and social security numbers.
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: 10/9/2026
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:
CA State Lottery
N/A
Attn: Human Resources, JC-532601
700 N. 10th Street MS#6-5
Sacramento, CA 95811
Address for Drop-Off Application Packages
You may drop off your application and any applicable or required documents at:
CA State Lottery
N/A
Human Resources, JC-532601
700 N. 10th Street MS#6-5
Sacramento, CA 95811
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 for this recruitment. Failure to submit the SOQ or submitting a SOQ that does not directly answer the prompt will result in disqualification from this recruitment. Please see the below section for further 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:
- Proficiency in computer systems and software
- In-depth knowledge of investigative procedures and techniques and have an aptitude for evaluating information (including computer data) and problem solving
- Experience with conducting interviews and/or interrogations of suspects, witnesses and victims, and properly documenting investigations in writing
- Experience in conducting and writing reports on complex administrative and criminal investigations, assisting allied agencies in criminal investigations, and filing cases in criminal court
- POST Certificates desired but not required
- Ability to work overtime and travel at any time (including out-of-state and overnight)
- Bilingual skills are desirable but not required
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.calottery.com
Human Resources Contact:
Human Resources, JC-532601
(916) 822-8158
careers@calottery.com
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) 822-8458
eeooffice@calottery.com
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.
Instructions For Statement Of Qualifications
Please address your knowledge and experience regarding the desirable qualifications.
- Describe the education, training and experience which specifically qualifies you for the position of State Special Investigator for the California State Lottery. Please provide the employer name(s), dates of employment, and the name(s) and phone number(s) of the supervisor(s) where you obtained your work experience.
- Describe your experience writing reports (e.g., crime reports, arrest reports, reports to courts, department heads, attorneys, law enforcement or other outside agencies) and the frequency with which you performed this task (number of reports completed daily or weekly).
- Describe a complex case that you participated in investigating within the last five years. Explain the case, your role, the actions you took, and the outcome.
- Describe your experience interrogating suspects and/or interviewing victims and witnesses within the last five years. Outline the specific techniques and strategies used; the frequency with which you performed this task; and the steps you took to complete the interrogation from the planning stage to the conclusion of the interview.
- Identify the specific competencies that are necessary to maintain positive and effective working relationships. Include at least one example of how you have used these competencies during the course of your work.
- Describe your experience submitting criminal investigations to a district attorney or city attorney for criminal prosecution.
- List all POST certifications (whether expired or not) you have received and the date each was issued.
Sacramento Headquarters
700 N 10th Street
Sacramento, CA 95811
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 : $5,528 - $9,037