Graduate Legal Assistant

Overview

This is a Limited Term (12 months) position as a Graduate Legal Assistant (GLA) supporting the Division of Prosecution within the Office of Enforcement. The role involves assisting with litigation of administrative and civil matters to ensure compliance with managed health care laws under the Knox-Keene Health Care Service Plan Act of 1975 and related regulations. The position may become permanent, be extended, or cancelled at any time. Multiple vacancies may be filled from this recruitment within 180 days of the closing date.

Responsibilities

• Assist attorney staff with legal research, analysis, and discovery.
• Draft memoranda and prepare reports on legal and policy recommendations related to the Knox-Keene Act, the federal Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA), and other state and federal laws.
• Exercise independent professional judgment and accept supervision as directed.
• Manage multiple tasks and a significant caseload, prioritizing work effectively.
• Communicate effectively both orally and in writing.
• Travel as required within California and the United States, which may include overnight stays.
• Maintain consistent work hours averaging 40 hours per week.

Requirements

• Must meet the minimum qualifications for the Graduate Legal Assistant classification.
• Ability to perform entry-level legal work in a governmental setting, including legal analysis, discovery preparation, and administrative/civil litigation.
• Proficient knowledge of legal concepts, terminology, principles, documentation, and procedures.
• Strong analytical, verbal, and written communication skills.
• Excellent research skills and ability to meet deadlines.
• Ability to maintain effective working relationships with colleagues, management, and external agencies.
• Willingness to understand department programs and policies to provide sound legal advice.
• Ability to maintain a work environment free from discrimination and harassment.
• Willingness to travel as needed.
• Must clear a background investigation prior to hire, including fingerprinting and criminal record check.
• Applicants using education to meet qualifications must submit transcripts.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience performing legal work in a government setting.
• Interest or experience in health care law.
• Courtroom advocacy experience.
• Demonstrated ability to manage a large caseload.

Compensation & Benefits

• Salary range: $5,227.00 - $6,238.00 per month.
• New state employees typically start at the minimum salary.
• Position is subject to the Personal Leave Program 2025, which includes a temporary salary reduction in exchange for leave credits.
• Eligible for hybrid telework based on operational needs.
• Benefits information is available through the state benefits summary.

Location

• Work location: Sacramento County, California.
• Office locations are in Downtown Sacramento and Rancho Cordova, both accessible by light rail.
• Work environment is a climate-controlled office or cubicle with artificial lighting.
• Telework is permitted under state and department policies; teleworkers must be California residents.

Application Instructions

• Applications are accepted until the position is filled.
• Submit a completed State Examination/Employment Application (STD 678) including all relevant experience and education.
• A writing sample demonstrating legal writing ability (at least one page, Arial 12-point font) is required; applications without a writing sample will not be considered.
• Transcripts must be submitted if using education to meet qualifications.
• Foreign degree holders must provide transcript evaluations from approved agencies.
• Applications may be submitted electronically via the state job portal or by mail/drop-off to the Human Resources Office in Sacramento.
• Do not include confidential information such as Social Security numbers or birthdates on application documents.

Additional Information

• The position requires a background check prior to hire.
• Reasonable accommodations are available upon request during the hiring process.
• The employer is an equal opportunity employer committed to a drug-free workplace.
• Candidates with State Restriction of Appointment (SROA) or Surplus eligibility are given priority.

Please refer to the official job announcement for full details on minimum qualifications, application procedures, and other requirements.