New To California State Employment
If you have never been employed in a permanent position by the State of California, you must take an exam before applying for any current job opening.
Step 1: Review the open exams and see if you qualify to take any of them.
Step 2: Review the exam and hiring process
Step 3: Complete a state application and mail it to:Exam Unit
Franchise Tax Board
PO Box 550
Sacramento CA 95812-0550
Note: Be sure to include the title of the exam on the application.Step 4: Take the exam and wait for a letter to confirm that you have been placed on an eligibility list.
Step 5: Apply for job openings that match your qualifications and the eligibility list.
Current and Prior State Employees
Current or prior State of California employees with permanent civil service status qualify to apply for job openings when:
- You currently are a State of California employee AND are in a classification comparable to the classification listed on the job opportunity notice, you qualify to transfer/lateral into the position; or
- You previously worked as State of California employee and were in a classification comparable to the classification listed on the job opportunity notice; or
- You have successfully competed in an examination for the classification listed on the job opportunity notice.
- You have retired from California State service and would like to return to work as a retired annuitant.
The final file date is the date by which applications must be postmarked. The final filing date and location to mail (or deliver applications in person) is located on the exam bulletin and job opening notice.
Retired Annuitant
Individuals who have retired from a permanent State of California position may qualify to apply for any job opening for classifications that you either:
- Worked at the time of your retirement, or
- You were eligible to transfer into at the time of your retirement.
As a retired annuitant, you may work up to 960 hours per calendar year while continuing to receive your retirement pay and benefits.
You should contact the Public Employees Retirement System (CalPERS) to obtain information regarding your options for returning to work as a retired annuitant or permanent employee.