Deputy Controller of Public Affairs

Job Description and Duties

Under the general direction of the State Controller and Chief of Staff, the Deputy Controller of Public Affairs provides executive leadership over all public affairs functions, including internal and external communications, media strategy, and stewardship of the Controller’s public reputation. They develop and implement communication frameworks that effectively educate the public about the Office’s programs, services, and priorities. They offer strategic counsel to the Controller and senior leadership, oversee a multidisciplinary team, and guide the development of policies and initiatives that advance transparency, accountability, and public trust.

Duties and Responsibilities:

(Candidates must perform the following functions with or without reasonable accommodations.)

Typical tasks assigned to this position include but are not limited to the following:

• Represent the State Controller’s constitutional interests by providing executive oversight of both internal and external communications, guiding strategic direction as it corresponds to the agency’s mission;

• Develop and coordinate work plans associated with the agency’s public affairs needs and manage staff work in media relations, constituent casework, community outreach/education, intergovernmental and public correspondence, research and analysis, speechwriting, and web content;

• Originate or modify programs and public policies within the jurisdiction of the State Controller, and develop plans for assessment, design specifications, implementation, and promotion;

• Develop and maintain methodologies for the dissemination of information, and provide leadership in the introduction of major changes in programs, policy, services, strategy, and technology;

• Proactively provide regular assessments to the State Controller and Chief of Staff regarding program areas, initiatives, and implementation of newly legislated mandates;

• Participate in meetings and events on behalf of the State Controller;
• Coordinate with other government departments and agencies to maximize collaboration;
• Manage budget allocations and expenditures for public affairs activities;
• Travel within the state as required.

You will find additional information about the job in the .

Working Conditions

This position is located at The Emerald Tower on Capitol Mall, steps from Tower Bridge and is walking distance to the State Capitol. The building offers affordable monthly parking, employee gym access, an amenities center, and a beautiful mid-tower garden terrace. It is conveniently situated only blocks from Old Sacramento, numerous restaurants, a seasonal farmer’s market, and the Crocker Art Museum. Overlooking the Golden 1 Arena and Downtown Commons, the office is accessible from Sacramento Regional Transit’s light rail and bus systems, with convenient access to I-5, I-80, US 50 & US 99.

This position is eligible for hybrid telework under California Government Code Section 14200 for eligible applicants residing in California. All telework schedules are subject to change and may be reevaluated at any time. Specific telework arrangements may be discussed in more detail with the respective hiring manager. Telework does not change the terms and conditions of employment, the essential functions of job duties, or required compliance with the State Controller's Office policies.

In July 2025, the State of California implemented the Personal Leave Program (PLP) 2025. This program temporarily reduces employees’ monthly base pay in exchange for paid leave credits. This position is subject to PLP 2025 and will have a monthly base pay reduction of 3% in exchange for 5 hours of leave credits through June 2027. The salary ranges shown on this job posting do not reflect the salary reduction.

Special Requirements

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:

1. Completed current version of the State Examination/Employment Application STD. Form 678 (when not applied electronically), or the Electronic State Employment Application through your Applicant Account at 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; solely referring to the resume for information (i.e., “See Resume”) is not acceptable. The Job Control number and examination title (JC – 522824 Deputy Controller, Public Affairs, CEA Level B) must be indicated on the application.
2. Resume is required and must be included. A Resume does not take the place of the completed STD. 678 application.
3. Statement of Qualifications (SOQ) - Statement of Qualification (SOQ) is required and instructions for the SOQ can be found under the "Examination Information” section located in this bulletin.

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:

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 the organization and functions of California State Government including the organization and practices of the Legislature, the Executive Branch, and the Constitutional Offices;
• Demonstrable knowledge of state policies, rules, and standards relative to Public Administration;
• Demonstrable understanding of Public Policy development;
• Experience in developing communication strategies, policies, press releases, talking points, speeches, etc.;
• Experience in relationship development with news outlets such as radio, television, newspaper, etc.;
• Demonstrable writing skills;
• Experience as a recognized spokesperson for an organization.

Benefits

The SCO offers a workplace that balances productivity with enjoyment; promotes an atmosphere of mutual respect, dedication, and enthusiasm. We offer competitive benefits and flexible opportunities:

• Excellent health, dental and vision benefits for employee/employee’s family
• 401K and 457(b) retirement
• Flexible Schedules
• Hybrid telework
• Paid Holidays and vacation/leave
• Tax-advantage savings and spending accounts
• Free Employee Assistance Program
• Investment in your training and development

Benefit information can be found on the CalHR website and the CalPERS website.

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 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 required and must be included.
• Statement of Qualifications -

  Please see Examination Information section for instructions.