/r/CAStateWorkers

Photograph via snooOG

An unofficial, casual place for State of California Workers, Union Members, Prospective Employees, and other people interested in State employment to discuss news, events and other items.

Do you work for the State of California? Are you interested in knowing about what a job at the State of California is like? Well, this is the place!

An UNOFFICIAL place for State of California Workers, Union Members, Prospective Employees and other people interested in State employment to discuss news, events and other items. This sub is not affiliated with the State of California in any way, shape, or form

Looking for a State Job? Start here:

Did you know CalHR has a YouTube page with tons of helpful videos?!


Searchable Job Description with MQs and series information


New to State Employee Orientation


Benefits Calculator


Payscales


2024 Pay schedule


SCO Paycheck Calculator

If you are 2% at 62 or something along those formulas for retirement, then your code is 2M. This is the basic miscellaneous code. If it is something else or you are Saftey/Industrial then you'll have to check with your PS, ask them what code is showing as your Retirement Code on your PIMS Screen.

To use this, place the following into their respective fields:

-Flex Cash (when it returns) and COBEN Cash goes in Flex Cash Option

-Total Other Flex Deductions is health, dental, vision, premier vision

-Total A/R is if you ever have/expect an A/R to come out of your check

-Total-Voluntary Deductions is most everything else such as ARAG, special deductions for your bank, fees

-Deferred Comp/TSA is Savings Plus


How range changes and MSAs work


Did you know the State of California has over 225,000 employees? More info here


RULES:

  1. Be excellent to each other.

  2. No non-state politics. This sub is meant to help each other in state service.

  3. No cut and pasting entire articles.

  4. If you are stating something is true, please try to back it up with links. The more links we get the better info we have.

  5. Don’t abuse the mods.

/r/CAStateWorkers

44,455 Subscribers

0

Is it worth it to contact the hiring unit about application?

I’ve submitted a bunch of applications and some says active and some says submitted. For the one that says active what does that entail?

On top of that is it worth it to reach out to the hiring unit contact to inquire on status of application?

2 Comments
2024/11/01
20:47 UTC

2

Dentist dropping Delta Dental. Does the State have other options?

The network where I live in So Cal is already pretty small, and I tried to make an appointment today and they said they are dropping Delta Dental at the beginning of the new year. I know that has been an issue recently is the State doing anything about it? Do we have any other options besides Delta Dental?

2 Comments
2024/11/01
20:43 UTC

2

X-Ray Tech for State Hospital

Hello guys, im in my last year as an X-Ray technologist student and was curious about working for the state prisons/ state hospitals. Are there any current radtechs in this group or even nurses orr staff that could help with any questions i have? Thanks!

3 Comments
2024/11/01
19:42 UTC

0

Probation Report

This might be a stupid question, but what exactly is the point of a probation report. I joined the state about a year ago as an ITA, 3 months after being hired I received my first probation report and got outstanding for all the criteria. 2 months after that I was promoted to ITS1 and I got my first probation report last week for ITS1 and also got outstanding for all the criteria. It seems like there are 3 levels of outstanding does it matter?

I guess other than passing your 1st year with the state, do probation reports follow you if you stay with the state? If I wanted to promote to ITS2, will those probation reports be considered?

8 Comments
2024/11/01
19:30 UTC

3

Transition private to state - jobs?

I've followed posts in this sub for some time and am intrigued by the work-life balance working for the state. Like others who've posted, it's hard to transition from private to state because of the vast difference in pay. For those who left private for the state, what job paths did you take or consider? I have 10 years experience with a masters degree working in communications. Are the pay ranges listed gross take home?

8 Comments
2024/11/01
18:42 UTC

8

Advice welcomed

I passed the Staff Services Analyst Exam a little over a month ago and I just wanted to see if I could get help with my applications to improve my chances of getting interviews.

I searched the subreddit and saw that one mistake I’ve been making for the past month is in how I formatted my SOQ. But I just wanted to see if there was any other tips people had. I am located in Southern California and want to relocate to Sacramento. I have MPA and have worked as in administration for about 3 years now since getting my masters. Any help or tips would be welcomed. Thank you!

17 Comments
2024/11/01
18:33 UTC

0

Blacklisted

I have a applied several times for DOJ positions CA1 CA2. Is it fair to say if you never get an interview you never will. I have been asked to take a test for CA1 but that is. I have applied to least 20 positions.

15 Comments
2024/11/01
16:14 UTC

2

Retirement Calculator vs Post Submitted Retirement Estimate

Here's one for anyone that has submitted their retirement application. I'm married with three adult children. I first submitted my retirement application in September (9/9) with a retirement date of 12/3. I had calculated using CalPers Estimator and select the 100% Beneficiary option with survivor so that my wife would receive the same amount if I pass before she does. If we both pass before my contributions are used up, those would be split between the 3 kids equally as the link states. So, that's the setup before the question. Now when I completed my retirement application and hit the submit button, I was given an estimate of what my checks would be at the bottom of the page. That estimate was about $270 shy of what their estimator said using the exact same criteria.

Initially, I thought I had screwed something up in the application so I cancelled the app and completely redid it. I submitted it again and got the same "estimated" figure. I called CalPers to find out why there was that much of a difference (30 or 40 bucks I could deal with - not really 270). I was told that they are a couple of months behind on getting the wages and that I should just ignore that figure as it would change as info came in from my employer. She told me to wait about a month and request an estimate letter which I did. The estimate letter was the same as the retirement calculator. I ended up calling again and got the same "just trust the process" reply. I'll still be retiring on that date and will just absorb the difference if it is still short. But my question is - did any retiree have this same issue and if so, did it eventually correct itself (within acceptable reason) when the checks started rolling in? I basically won't know anything until after I retire and receive the letter stating the amount, estimated date of first check, etc. At that point, what can I really do if it's still low?

1 Comment
2024/10/31
19:24 UTC

8

Unpaid Overtime CalOES

Anyone else having this issue? It’s been over 30 days and we have not been paid, is there something going on?

11 Comments
2024/11/01
08:32 UTC

2

EAP

I have been experiencing a lot of personal and work related stress. I finally decided to go to therapy, which has been helping me tremendously. My question is, can I get an extension on my free sessions? If not, what are some other options for state employees to continue therapy through BetterHelp and not break the bank?

Any insight on either option would be great.

5 Comments
2024/11/01
06:03 UTC

12

Career Path for AGPA

I am currently an AGPA and have been for 3.5 years. I really don’t want to become a manager so I am wondering if there are any other classification paths I could move to with a BA and analyst experience.

14 Comments
2024/11/01
05:13 UTC

15

URGENT-Pre employment physical

Hello, I have questions about a pre employment physical. My wife was offered a typing technician job at Atascadero State Hospital. It required a physical at a specified hospital, Industrial Medicine in San Luis Obispo. She is young, healthy and slim, but due to the stress of quitting one job and starting another, has caused a white coat syndrome and her blood pressure was elevated (160/95) during the check.

The physical doctor wont clear her until she either showed 3 blood pressure reading with her primary care doctor under 140/xx or that she is on blood pressure medication and her pressure is stable and being monitored, all within 30 days! After learning this she immediately got hold of her doctor and was able to squeeze an appointment in. Her primary doctor has her history of low stable blood pressure and wanted her to take reading at home before recommending any medication and sent a letter stating such to Industrial Medicine, that she is being monitored and under a doctors supervision.

Her home readings are low and don't warrant medication. Despite this the Industrial medicine doctor wont clear her and only has a couple weeks left before this 30 day deadline. Getting appointments with her doctor is near impossible and they wont accept an "urgent care doctors" notes. Where does this 30 day deadline come from? Can one ill informed doctor tank her job? Why so much fuss over a desk job? What regulation states she needs perfect blood pressure? She is very upset over this and I would appreciate any insight and advice.

11 Comments
2024/11/01
02:48 UTC

34

Jumping to management

I just accepted an SSMI position with my current department. I’m going to try to enjoy this moment and accomplishment before I start freaking out. I’ve been working towards this for a while and have faced my fair share of rejection. I start in a couple of weeks. I have zero management experience. Any tips for me??

22 Comments
2024/11/01
02:47 UTC

0

30 days notice to change or terminate aTelework agreement. Does your department adhere to this policy?

7 Comments
2024/11/01
02:20 UTC

0

Is it too late to cancel my open enrollment?

Im having some second thoughts about switching from Kaiser even though i submitted my open enrollment paperwork. Can i cancel it and keep Kaiser?

12 Comments
2024/11/01
00:19 UTC

3

Security Guard Jobs within the state?

Hi! My husband is new to the United States. He came here in February 2024 through marriage. He has a green card and SSN. But hasn’t had any luck finding a job. He also obtained a security guard card through the Bureau of Security and Investigative Services (BSIS) unarmed.

Does he have a chance at getting a state job with a security guard with no prior training?

14 Comments
2024/10/31
23:35 UTC

0

Failed Probation

Hi there, quick question about probation.

If someone were to fail probation, would they automatically go back to the position they were in before? In this scenario this person was an OT, promoted to an SSA within the same department, and may fail their SSA probation.

Also, how does this effect pay? They are currently a range B SSA, and make what a higher end OT would make. Would their pay stay the same?

Thank you!

14 Comments
2024/10/31
23:16 UTC

2

VSP Premier

How much are your out of pocket costs for a contact lens exam and 12 months worth of contact lens after deducting the $200 allowance?

4 Comments
2024/10/31
22:33 UTC

169

Passed Probation

Passed probation. That was intense I mean I've been on probation before but this was different phew. Looking forward to what the future holds. I can say that I enjoy the department I work in and I enjoy the people I work with not many people say that in a state job. I got lucky!

Edit: I see comments saying I wouldn't say work is intense I stated PROBATION was intense being on probation is intense in my opinion I take pride in my work ethic and trying to make sure you do everything right while you're being monitored and knowing that they can let you go at any time is why it's intense. Don't try to downplay my celebration because you have a different outlook on what you think isn't/ is intense. I'm not going into what department I'm in. Good day.

Edit: AGAIN for the HATERS trying to down play me for being happy that I passed probation. I’m sorry that you’re in a place that you don’t want to be however that is not my problem. Arguing in my comments because you’re bored and unhappy with yourself is pathetic. Haters are my number one motivators. I will utilize that block button. Good night 😘

62 Comments
2024/10/31
22:32 UTC

6

Error trying to take an exam!

https://preview.redd.it/y7mwqwpqh5yd1.png?width=2183&format=png&auto=webp&s=2630addc8664a156081861aa5a5e0a68904c6ffa

https://preview.redd.it/xdfpu0qqh5yd1.png?width=2183&format=png&auto=webp&s=59edb9ee9a730cd0ef6a6da9d5b733ec37e87d5c

Has anyone encountered this error? I have called the number (866)844-8671 from the contact us in the website. I cannot find anything on the FAQ about troubleshooting this.
I did cleared my cache (Google Chrome), I tried using two other browsers: Edge and Mozilla and still find the same error. I am running out of ideas. I am just trying to apply for jobs.

3 Comments
2024/10/31
20:24 UTC

16

Received a call from CalPERS?

Hi all. I just received a call from CalPERS but there is no voicemail. When I call back, it’s an automated number, what should I do?

As a back story, within the last 2 months I have applied for 3 CalPERS positions and interviewed for one of them earlier this month.

11 Comments
2024/10/31
19:03 UTC

5

SISA

Hi guys! I started my role in May 2024 and my role is eligible for the SISA pay raise. I signed the paper approving so a couple weeks ago, am I supposed to get that raise starting with my october paycheck or the one after? I was under the assumption that it’s after 6 months so shouldn’t I see the change with today’s paycheck? Thanks in advance!

5 Comments
2024/10/31
17:10 UTC

3

CA EDD Conditional offer & benefits options?

I got a conditional offer yesterday. It's a UI Services Representative, Permanent Intermittent position (1500hrs). Does it offer benefits? Do I need to wait until a probationary period ends before getting benefits? I verbally accepted the offer and need to go through background/fingerprinting before final offer. COBRA is killing my wallet and I'm looking for alternatives. My understanding is a PI position doesn't offer benefits. Little help?

7 Comments
2024/10/31
16:35 UTC

197

Looking for a job? Have you heard of Right of Way?

Hello all prospective State workers! I just wanted to pop in and let you know about a lesser-known classification looking for well-qualified applicants, specifically at the Department of Water Resources. This classification is called "Right of Way Agent" and here's why you should be interested:

  • You only need a 4-year degree to qualify, no experience is required
  • If you enjoy puzzles, you will probably like this job
  • If you meet the MQ's because you have a 4-year degree, you automatically meet the criteria for Range B pay (above starting AGPA range)
  • All Right of Way Agent positions are slash positions so if you stay for 2 years, meet performance standards, and pass the Associate Exam, you will be automatically promoted to an Associate Right of Way Agent (tops out higher than SSM I)
    • After Associate, it takes another 2 years to qualify for Senior. In our Branch we currently have 10 Senior positions (supervisory and specialist). That is compared to the 16 Right of Way/Associate Right of Way positions we have, so there is ample promotional opportunity.
  • There are Department-specific and Building-specific perks with DWR and the Branch itself is a diverse team of fun and friendly people who strive to welcome new employees and help them feel comfortable and supported as they learn how to be a Right of Way Agent. The Branch really is a wonderful place to work. If you have questions, DM this account and we can provide the full job ad with more details.

Please search "right of way" on CalCareers to find the positions, we have 2 positions that posted yesterday and will have 2 more positions posting in the next month or so.

52 Comments
2024/10/31
16:31 UTC

2

Blue Shield Access + and UC Davis

Was I tripping, or did Blue Shield Access+ add UC Davis as a provider halfway through open enrollment this year?

I searched for plans that would cover UCD in the beginning of open enrollment period, and only the two expensive Anthem ones came up. Blue Shield's doctor finder was also kinda busted and buggy so I couldn't find all the info I needed. But when I checked just now it says UCD is covered by Access +. I'm so bummed.

PS, The benefits calculator also had errors. The calculator showed that I'm eligible for $30/month cash back if I waive dental coverage, but my HR said that's not a thing. 🤷‍♀️ Can any excluded employee confirm?

3 Comments
2024/10/31
16:05 UTC

3

DWR - Hydroelectric Plant Electrician Apprentice

Hello! A friend of mine applied for the southern division and wants to know the location where he would be working. Would it be Pearblossom? Or are there any other locations in Southern division? Thank you in advance!

3 Comments
2024/10/31
03:32 UTC

7

Anyone work for DCC?

I am thinking about applying for a lateral transfer to the AGPA licensing branch at DCC. I am wondering if anyone is currently working there and can give me some feedback about their experience with the leadership/management team, work culture, telework policy, workload etc.

Thank you! 😊

3 Comments
2024/10/31
02:13 UTC

3

EDD CSC DIPR in ARU 208

I just wanted to check in and see how you all are doing. So much to learn.

6 Comments
2024/10/31
00:27 UTC

0

Reversal of MSA denial

Someone I know was recently denied their MSA while on an approved workers comp claim for half the performance period. The matter is being taken to calHR with the main issue being that the denial was not given 10 days prior to the effective date as required per CalHr rule 599.684

How likely is CalHR to reverse the manager’s decision based on this part of the rule?

Thanks for your time

11 Comments
2024/10/30
23:33 UTC

0

Probably Stupid Calpers Question

Recently there was a Proposition H in SF to lower retirement age from 58-55 . I understand this is a special case circumstance but it got me thinking. Is there ever a possibility of lowering the retirement age for Calpers ? Or factoring in years of service. What’s type of legislation would that look like ? I am a part of the unlucky who have 2% at 62 I started working 2016 at 22 . 40 years of water operator service sounds like a death sentence. Is this something that is possible in the future ? Even if unlikely I would like to have some hope for my remaining 32 years.

13 Comments
2024/10/30
23:06 UTC

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