Job Description and Duties The California Student Aid Commission is seeking a highly skilled General Counsel to provide top-level legal oversight, strategic direction, and expert guidance in support of our mission to deliver financial aid to 2.2 million students each year. In this executive role, the General Counsel advises the Executive Director, Commission members, and senior leadership on complex legal matters; leads strategic litigation planning; and oversees the development and management of legal policies, regulations, and compliance activities. The position also represents the Commission in legal proceedings, provides counsel on legislation and personnel matters, oversees audits and regulatory processes, and ensures effective implementation of state and federal laws across the agency. Effective July 1, 2025, the California Department of Human Resources (CalHR) implemented the Personal Leave Program (PLP) 2025 and related Pay Differential 386. PLP 2025 requires employees to receive a reduction in pay in exchange for monthly hours of PLP 2025 leave credits. The salary range(s) included on this job posting does not reflect the reduction in pay. For more information, visit the CalHR website (www.calhr.ca.gov). Recruitment Webinar Date: Tuesday, July 14, 2026 Time: 12:00pm – 1:00pm Registration link: https://csac-ca-gov.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_ACQB-hkCSiqMUxi73OOdyg Description: The California Student Aid Commission is seeking a highly skilled General Counsel to provide top-level legal oversight, strategic direction, and expert guidance in support of our mission to deliver financial aid to 2.2 million students each year. In this executive role, the General Counsel advises the Executive Director, Commission members, and senior leadership on complex legal matters; leads strategic litigation planning; and oversees the development and management of legal policies, regulations, and compliance activities. The position also represents the Commission in legal proceedings, provides counsel on legislation and personnel matters, oversees audits and regulatory processes, and ensures effective implementation of state and federal laws across the agency. Please join us to find out more about this exciting opportunity! You will find additional information about the job in the Duty Statement. Special Requirements • The position(s) require(s) a(n) Active State Bar membership or ability to obtain License. You will be required to provide a copy of your license prior to being hired. Examination Information A minimum rating of 70% must be attained to obtain list eligibility. Hiring interviews may be conducted with the most qualified candidates. All candidates will receive written notification of their examination results. The result of this examination will be used to fill the position of General Counsel, Legal Division with the CALIFORNIA STUDENT AID COMMISSION. The results of this examination will only be used to fill this position. Applicants who fail to submit all components of the exam documents as described below and in this exam bulletin, may be eliminated from the exam process. The exam will consist of a review of each candidate’s application, résumé, and Statement of Qualifications (SOQ), and is weighted 100%. The SOQ must identify the applicant’s experience, education, certification, and training in their response to each of the below “Desirable Qualifications”. The SOQ serves as documentation in responding to the Desirable Qualifications. The SOQ must be typed and no more than four (4) pages in length, 12-point font, single spaced, on 8 ½”X11” paper. Each answer should address each of the desirable qualifications, numbered separately for each bulleted item. Responses must be complete, specific, clear, and concise. Please clearly title your documents as the “Statement of Qualifications”. Résumés and/or cover letters do not take the place of the SOQ. 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: • Experience interpreting and applying the California Education Code in complex or sensitive situations. Include a specific example where your analysis informed policy, operational decisions, or risk mitigation at an organizational level. • Experience ensuring organizational compliance with federal and state laws, particularly those affecting public agencies or education-focused entities. Highlight one matter where you provided critical legal guidance that influenced organizational strategy or prevented potential liability. • Experience advising on the Bagley-Keene Open Meeting Act or other public transparency laws. Provide an example of how you guided an organization in navigating open meeting requirements, agenda preparation, or compliance challenges. • Experience drafting, reviewing, and negotiating complex contracts, MOUs, or interagency agreements. Include an example of how you ensured compliance with state procurement rules and protected the organization’s interests. • Describe your leadership philosophy and experience managing attorneys or cross-functional teams. Additionally, explain how you have provided counsel to executives or governing bodies to support sound, ethical, and defensible decision-making.