General Counsel
Apply NowCompany: State of California
Location: Sacramento, CA 95823
Description:
This position will run until filled with cutoff dates for review every Friday until filled.
The General Counsel serves as the chief legal officer for CalPERS and is a critical member of the Executive Team. Under the policy direction of the Board of Administration and the administrative direction of the Chief Executive Officer, the General Counsel provides strategic legal advice, leadership, and representation to the Board, Executive Staff, and the organization. This role supports CalPERS' mission to deliver retirement and health benefits by overseeing key enterprise functions and ensuring compliance with applicable laws, regulations, and fiduciary duties.
The General Counsel leads and manages a broad portfolio of functions, including Legal, Enterprise Compliance & Risk Governance, Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO), Investigations, and the Office of Information Security. The position advises on complex legal matters such as employee benefits law (public pension and health care), fiduciary law, government law, corporate governance, and securities law.
In addition, the General Counsel manages litigation matters including securities and investment-related cases, benefit-related administrative proceedings, and general litigation, oversees outside counsel, and provides legal and parliamentary support at Board and committee meetings. As the executive liaison to the CalPERS Board Governance Committee, the General Counsel plays a key role in shaping governance practices and Board policy. The position also represents CalPERS in state and national forums and delivers presentations on fiduciary responsibilities, legal matters affecting public pension systems, and Board governance policies.
Telework Information: This position is eligible for a hybrid work schedule, with up to two days of remote work and three days or more onsite, per week.
How did you hear about this position? Tell us in this brief survey .
You will find additional information about the job in the Duty Statement .
Minimum Requirements You will find the Minimum Requirements in the Class Specification.
Position Details Job Code #:
JC-474205
Position #(s):
275-140-4067-001
Working Title:
General Counsel
Classification:
GENERAL COUNSEL, PUBLIC EMPLOYEE'S RETIREMENT SYSTEM $20,937.50 - $34,895.83
This position is eligible for annual incentive award. The annual incentive opportunity is 0-105% (target 70%) of salary and is based on the level of achievement against several quantitative and qualitative measures.
# of Positions:
1
Work Location:
Sacramento County
Telework:
Hybrid
Job Type:
Permanent, Full Time
Department Information California Public Employees' Retirement System (CalPERS) is a global institutional investor and the nation's largest public pension fund, with assets of approximately $520.84 billion as of April 14, 2025. Headquartered in downtown Sacramento, we are a destination employer with an international reputation for leadership and innovation. At CalPERS, we're committed to people - the people we serve, our team members, and the larger community around us. CalPERS is situated near the Napa Valley, San Francisco, Lake Tahoe, and other desirable destinations, and we offer competitive benefit packages, compensation, and opportunities for advancement. Our people are deeply committed to our Mission & Vision and their decisions and actions are guided by our Investment Beliefs .
If you are interested in becoming part of a diverse and inclusive workforce where talent, experience, and expertise are valued, CalPERS invites you to apply for this employment opportunity. To find out more about our Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion efforts, visit our website !
To take a look at CalPERS as a destination employer, view this YouTube video .
Special Requirements Minimum Qualifications
All experience and education relating to the Minimum Qualifications (MQs) listed on the Classification Specification should be included in your application package to clearly demonstrate how you meet the MQs for this position. The Classification Specification is located on this Job Posting under "Minimum 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:
Public Employees Retirement System
Postal
Attn: JC-474205/NM
Human Resources Division, Recruitment
P. O. Box 942718
Sacramento , CA 94229-2718
Address for Drop-Off Application Packages
You may drop off your application and any applicable or required documents at:
Public Employees Retirement System
Drop-Off
HRSD, EIR JC-474205/NM
400 Q Street, Lincoln Plaza North
1st floor drop box by security desk
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:
Benefits CalPERS employees are eligible for a number of benefits. Health benefits and leave programs are available for most permanent, full-time employees and some permanent, part-time employees. Benefit eligibility may depend on length of service and may be subject to collective bargaining agreements, which are contracts negotiated between the State of California and employee organizations that define employees' wages, hours, and conditions of employment.
Some added benefits CalPERS offers include:
Alternate Work Schedules
Flexible Work Hours
Child Care
For more details about employee benefits, visit the California Department of Human Resources website.
Contact Information
The Human Resources Contact is available to answer questions regarding the position or application process.
Human Resources Contact:
CalPERS Careers
(916) 795-3065
Careers@calpers.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:
CalPERS EEO
(916) 795-3675
EEO@calpers.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
Live Scan
Candidates new to CalPERS are required to submit to a criminal history review process utilizing Live Scan fingerprinting.
CalPERS Disclosure Requirements
If employed, you may be subject to rules imposed by Personal Trading Regulations and Conflict of Interest Code that apply to CalPERS employees, which require disclosure of certain investment information and use of a designated trading platform for securities transactions, as well as filing a Statement of Economic Interest (Form 700) .
Background Investigation
In addition to Live Scan, this position requires additional background screening prior to employment.
Surety Bond
Must be able to qualify for a Surety Bond.
Please do not include any confidential information on any documents in your application package. Confidential information that should be excluded or removed from these documents include, but is not limited to, your social security number, date of birth, marital status, personal photos, a copy of your driver's license, equal employment opportunity data, examination scores, and LEAP status.
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 General Counsel serves as the chief legal officer for CalPERS and is a critical member of the Executive Team. Under the policy direction of the Board of Administration and the administrative direction of the Chief Executive Officer, the General Counsel provides strategic legal advice, leadership, and representation to the Board, Executive Staff, and the organization. This role supports CalPERS' mission to deliver retirement and health benefits by overseeing key enterprise functions and ensuring compliance with applicable laws, regulations, and fiduciary duties.
The General Counsel leads and manages a broad portfolio of functions, including Legal, Enterprise Compliance & Risk Governance, Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO), Investigations, and the Office of Information Security. The position advises on complex legal matters such as employee benefits law (public pension and health care), fiduciary law, government law, corporate governance, and securities law.
In addition, the General Counsel manages litigation matters including securities and investment-related cases, benefit-related administrative proceedings, and general litigation, oversees outside counsel, and provides legal and parliamentary support at Board and committee meetings. As the executive liaison to the CalPERS Board Governance Committee, the General Counsel plays a key role in shaping governance practices and Board policy. The position also represents CalPERS in state and national forums and delivers presentations on fiduciary responsibilities, legal matters affecting public pension systems, and Board governance policies.
Telework Information: This position is eligible for a hybrid work schedule, with up to two days of remote work and three days or more onsite, per week.
How did you hear about this position? Tell us in this brief survey .
You will find additional information about the job in the Duty Statement .
Minimum Requirements You will find the Minimum Requirements in the Class Specification.
- GENERAL COUNSEL, PUBLIC EMPLOYEE'S RETIREMENT SYSTEM
- Job Application Package Checklist
- Duty Statement
Position Details Job Code #:
JC-474205
Position #(s):
275-140-4067-001
Working Title:
General Counsel
Classification:
GENERAL COUNSEL, PUBLIC EMPLOYEE'S RETIREMENT SYSTEM $20,937.50 - $34,895.83
This position is eligible for annual incentive award. The annual incentive opportunity is 0-105% (target 70%) of salary and is based on the level of achievement against several quantitative and qualitative measures.
# of Positions:
1
Work Location:
Sacramento County
Telework:
Hybrid
Job Type:
Permanent, Full Time
Department Information California Public Employees' Retirement System (CalPERS) is a global institutional investor and the nation's largest public pension fund, with assets of approximately $520.84 billion as of April 14, 2025. Headquartered in downtown Sacramento, we are a destination employer with an international reputation for leadership and innovation. At CalPERS, we're committed to people - the people we serve, our team members, and the larger community around us. CalPERS is situated near the Napa Valley, San Francisco, Lake Tahoe, and other desirable destinations, and we offer competitive benefit packages, compensation, and opportunities for advancement. Our people are deeply committed to our Mission & Vision and their decisions and actions are guided by our Investment Beliefs .
If you are interested in becoming part of a diverse and inclusive workforce where talent, experience, and expertise are valued, CalPERS invites you to apply for this employment opportunity. To find out more about our Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion efforts, visit our website !
To take a look at CalPERS as a destination employer, view this YouTube video .
Special Requirements Minimum Qualifications
All experience and education relating to the Minimum Qualifications (MQs) listed on the Classification Specification should be included in your application package to clearly demonstrate how you meet the MQs for this position. The Classification Specification is located on this Job Posting under "Minimum 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:
Public Employees Retirement System
Postal
Attn: JC-474205/NM
Human Resources Division, Recruitment
P. O. Box 942718
Sacramento , CA 94229-2718
Address for Drop-Off Application Packages
You may drop off your application and any applicable or required documents at:
Public Employees Retirement System
Drop-Off
HRSD, EIR JC-474205/NM
400 Q Street, Lincoln Plaza North
1st floor drop box by security desk
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.
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:
- Legal Expertise: Extensive experience in public pension law, corporate governance, investment transactions, securities litigation, fiduciary law, and government law.
- Leadership & Management: Proven ability to lead and develop high-performing legal teams, manage complex litigation and transactional matters, and provide strategic legal advice to boards, executives, and large organizations.
- Collaboration & Communication: Strong interpersonal skills with a demonstrated ability to build trust, credibility, and effective working relationships with diverse stakeholders, including board members, executives, regulators, and external counsel. Exceptional oral and written communication skills to convey complex legal concepts clearly to non-legal audiences.
- Strategic Thinking & Problem-Solving: Expertise in assessing legal risks and opportunities, providing strategic advice to support organizational goals, and navigating complex legal and regulatory environments.
- Ethics & Integrity: High ethical standards and a commitment to fiduciary responsibilities, organizational mission, and excellent customer service.
- Innovation & Engagement: Passion for fostering creativity, innovation, and engagement within legal teams to advance organizational objectives.
Benefits CalPERS employees are eligible for a number of benefits. Health benefits and leave programs are available for most permanent, full-time employees and some permanent, part-time employees. Benefit eligibility may depend on length of service and may be subject to collective bargaining agreements, which are contracts negotiated between the State of California and employee organizations that define employees' wages, hours, and conditions of employment.
Some added benefits CalPERS offers include:
Alternate Work Schedules
Flexible Work Hours
Child Care
For more details about employee benefits, visit the California Department of Human Resources website.
Contact Information
The Human Resources Contact is available to answer questions regarding the position or application process.
Human Resources Contact:
CalPERS Careers
(916) 795-3065
Careers@calpers.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:
CalPERS EEO
(916) 795-3675
EEO@calpers.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
Live Scan
Candidates new to CalPERS are required to submit to a criminal history review process utilizing Live Scan fingerprinting.
CalPERS Disclosure Requirements
If employed, you may be subject to rules imposed by Personal Trading Regulations and Conflict of Interest Code that apply to CalPERS employees, which require disclosure of certain investment information and use of a designated trading platform for securities transactions, as well as filing a Statement of Economic Interest (Form 700) .
Background Investigation
In addition to Live Scan, this position requires additional background screening prior to employment.
Surety Bond
Must be able to qualify for a Surety Bond.
Please do not include any confidential information on any documents in your application package. Confidential information that should be excluded or removed from these documents include, but is not limited to, your social security number, date of birth, marital status, personal photos, a copy of your driver's license, equal employment opportunity data, examination scores, and LEAP status.
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.