• Special Assistant, LACERA Pasadena
• LACERA in Pasadena, CA, United States

• jobs
• 1 month ago

jobs description

EXAMINATION INFORMATION: Exam Number: 9-0775-D, Job Bulletin: 24-09
TYPE OF RECRUITMENT: Open Competitive Job Opportunity

APPLICATION FILING PERIOD: Online applications will be accepted beginning Thurs day, November 21, 2024, at 8:00 a.m. (PST).
This examination will remain open until the needs of the service are met and is subject to closure without prior notice.
ABOUT US

The Los Angeles County Employees Retirement Association (LACERA) administers and manages the $80+ billion retirement fund for the County of Los Angeles. We provide retirement, disability, and death benefits to eligible County Employees and their Beneficiaries, and collect, deposit, invest, and manage retirement funds collected from the County, Outside Districts, and County Employees.

LACERA is one of the largest county retirement associations in the United States with over 184,000 Members. Our Membership is comprised of individuals from a diverse range of careers, age groups, and ethnicity - all contributing to the greater welfare of Los Angeles County.

Our Core Values: I ACT (Integrity, Inclusivity, Innovation, Accountability, Collaboration, and Transparency), serve as our cultural guide and foundation in meeting our mission. As a member-focused government agency, we abide by our core values to ensure the public's trust, operate efficiently and cost effectively, and provide our members their promised benefits.

Benefits include a cafeteria benefit plan (14.5%-17% of monthly salary), annual leave, defined benefit retirement plan, Savings Plan (401k), Deferred Compensation Plan (457), 13 paid holidays per year, savings plan, a hybrid work schedule, tuition reimbursement, and a ride share program. CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE!

Apply today and be part of a dynamic team dedicated to excellence and innovation!

ABOUT THE POSITION:
The Special Assistant, LACERA, is a member of the Executive Office and reports to the Chief Executive Officer. This role is pivotal, offering you the chance to drive strategic initiatives, manage high-impact projects, and ensure the seamless operation of LACERA's Executive Office. As a key advisor to the leadership team, you will provide critical insights, facilitate communication, and oversee daily operations, much like a Chief of Staff.

This position will work independently or alongside executive leadership, engaging with internal and external stakeholders, including divisional staff, plan sponsors, employee groups, various government agencies, consultants, vendors, Board members, and partners. The role demands discretion and care in handling confidential and sensitive information used to support management decisions, as well as professionalism and tact in interactions with higher-level staff and management during the planning and coordination of work efforts.

With a blend of sharp leadership, project management, and problem-solving skills, the ideal candidate will provide support and strategic counsel to ensure the effective functioning of the organization. This position brings together diverse stakeholders and drives decision-making processes, ensuring that projects remain on track and align with LACERA's strategic goals.
The Special Assistant, LACERA will:
• Analyze and interpret data to generate actionable recommendations;
• Lead complex administrative support functions such as managing sensitive files, preparing reports, and editing documents, including but not limited to Board materials and presentations;
• Manage and lead highly complex special projects and assignments;
• Maintain effective partnerships and business relationships with internal and external stakeholders;
• Monitor, report, and track the performance of strategic goals to measure success and make informed recommendations to the Executive team using data analytics tools and performance management software. Reviews performance metrics in alignment with the organization's mission, vision, and strategic goals;
• Prepare presentation materials and reports on various issues, including sensitive or confidential information, recommendations for action, strategic goal initiatives, program implementation, and Board-requested materials;
• Be innovative and leverages technology and software for day-to-day operations and to optimize business efficiency; and
• Advocate for and uphold the organization's Mission, Vision, and Values!!
Recruitment Brochure
Vacancy Information:
The current vacancy is in the Executive Office; however, the resulting eligible register for this examination can be used to fill other vacancies in LACERA, as they occur.

Work location: LACERA is located in Gateway Plaza at 300 North Lake Avenue in the beautiful City of Pasadena. The building is easily accessible from the Foothill Freeway (210) and the Metro Lake Station. We offer convenient free parking in our secure structure adjacent to the building in addition to a robust rideshare program providing commuting alternatives such as ride-matching, vanpool, carpool, parking services and more. Prioritizing health, well-being, and sustainability, Gateway Plaza is a Class “A” office building, LEED Gold Certified and EPA Energy Star Certified. With a Walkability Score of 91, LACERA staff members are able to easily enjoy the approximately 150 shops, food, and dining options that make up the popular South Lake Avenue District.
Work Schedule: This full-time position is required to work a 5/40 schedule (e.g. an eight (8) hour day, Monday through Friday), with occasional nights and weekends in emergent situations. LACERA offers a hybrid work environment, and this position may be eligible to telework up to three (3) days per week.
Compensation:
$11,647.64 - $17,629.66 Monthly
This position is subject to the provisions of the Management Appraisal of Performance Plan (MAPP). Initial salary placement and subsequent salary adjustments will be made in accordance with MAPP guidelines and regulations.
This position is an exempt position as defined by the Fair Labor Standards Act and not eligible for overtime.
Certification Bonus:
Any permanent, full-time employee working in this classification possessing one (1) of the valid certifications listed below is entitled to a Certification Bonus equal to two (2) salary schedules (approximately 5.5%) as provided by the Los Angeles County Step Pay Plan.
• Certified Public Accountant license issued by the State of California
• Certified Government Financial Manager certification issued by the Association of Government Accountants
• Certified Internal Auditor certification from the Institute of Internal Auditors
• Certified Information Systems Auditor certification from the Information Systems Audit and Control Association
• Certified Employee Benefits Specialist designation from the International Foundation of Employee Benefit Plans and the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania

To view the complete job description for this classification, please click the link below:

Special Assistant, LACERA. MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS: Four (4) years' highly responsible and complex administrative, advisory, or staff capacity experience analyzing and making recommendations for the solution of procedural, personnel, budgetary, legislative, governmental, or similar complex problems supporting an executive-level individual or team.
LICENSE: A valid California Class C Driver License or the ability to utilize an alternative method of transportation when needed to carry out job-related essential functions.

PHYSICAL CLASS II - LIGHT: Light physical effort which may include occasional light lifting to a 10-pound limit, and occasional bending, walking, stooping or squatting. Incumbents sit for extended periods of time. Work is performed in an office environment in a controlled climate.
DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS
Experience in:
• Managing complex projects from start to finish, leading teams to meet deadlines, budget, and scope.
• Strategic planning, implementing systems, and measuring outcomes.
• Researching, analyzing data, and preparing detailed reports with recommendations.
• Building consensus and maintaining relationships with stakeholders, board members, and decision-makers.
• Making public presentations and writing clearly to address complex issues for the governing board or leadership team.
Knowledge of:
• Business/Public Administration: principles and practices of business and/or public administration.
• Organizational Performance Analysis: methods, techniques, and tools used to analyze program, organizational, and mission performance; includes methods that deliver key performance information (for example, comparative, trend, diagnostic, root cause, predictive) used to inform decisions, actions, communications, and accountability system.
• Project Management: principles, methods, or tools for developing, scheduling, coordinating, and managing projects and resources, including monitoring and inspecting costs, work, and performance. Ensures clear definition of project goals and criteria for success. Involves customers, suppliers, and other stakeholders. Determines the necessary activities, their logical sequence, interdependencies, and allocation of resources. Ensures necessary skill sets among project staff. Clarifies individual roles and responsibilities, deliverables, and schedule milestones. Establishes decision-making process and boundaries for independent decision making. Anticipates problems and mitigates risks. Guards against expansion of project scope. Reviews and evaluates completed project for lessons learned.
• Research Techniques: Including scientific principles, methods, and processes used to conduct a systematic and objective inquiry; including study design, collection, analysis, and interpretation of data; and the reporting of results for recommended courses of action.
Ability to:
• Analyze and Interpret Data: Organizes, codes, aggregates and disaggregates data for analysis. "Cleans" data for errors, redundancies, and omissions. Uses appropriate statistical or qualitative analysis techniques. Accurately summarizes data and presents it in charts, tables, graphs and computational or statistical reports. Recognizes relationships and trends in the data and draws credible conclusions, inferences, and generalizations.
• Communicate Effectively (Verbally and in Writing): Delivers clear, organized, and persuasive speeches or presentation. Recognizes or uses correct English grammar, punctuation, and spelling; communicates information (for example, facts, ideas, or messages) in a brief, clear, and organized manner; produces written information, which may include technical and confidential material, that is appropriate for the intended.
• Demonstrates Accountability: Holds self and others accountable for measurable high-quality, timely, and cost-effective results. Determines objectives, sets priorities, and delegates work. Accepts responsibility for mistakes. Complies with established control systems and rules.
• Emotional Intelligence: Identify, understand, and manage one’s own emotions, and empathize with others. Recognizes how one's own emotions can affect the thoughts and behavior of others. Able to regulate one's own emotions, especially in stressful situations. Diffuse highly charged situations. Handles emotional information from others, which involves empathizing with their emotional state, understanding their needs or concerns, and being able to help if needed.
• Leverage Technology: Proficient in the use of modern software applications, including Microsoft suite products, and flexible in applying new software solutions to achieve the work of the organization. Advanced knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite, including Microsoft Outlook, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint is required. Leverages technology and software for day-to-day operations and to optimize business efficiency.
• Problem Solve: Ability to identify and analyze highly complex problems that may arise; weighs relevance and accuracy of information to generate, evaluate, and apply solutions. Readily identifies current opportunities for improvement. Examines old problems under a new light. Thinks outside of the box. Comes up with novel, resourceful, creative, or imaginative approaches to problems or opportunities. Breaks down an issue or problem into its elements and recognizes interrelationships. Attends to all pertinent facts and data. Updates conclusions and inferences in response to new information. Seeks the root causes of problems or underlying determinants of issues.
• Think Critically and Strategically: Breaks down issues into elements and recognize interrelationships. Consider relevant facts and data, ask incisive questions, and challenge assumptions. Identify flaws and inconsistencies in arguments. Develop strategies aligned with the organization's business and competitive strategy. Predict future trends and opportunities. Create and revise long-term plans considering core competencies, members, risks, resources, strengths, and weaknesses. Sets objectives and priorities that align with the organization's global interests. Seize opportunities and manage risk.
To receive credit for the above desirable qualifications, your application must clearly describe your experience.

Those applicants, who meet the Minimum Requirements AND most closely match the desired qualifications, will be invited to participate in the examination process.

EXAMINATION CONTENT
The examination process will consist of the following parts:

Part I: A qualifying evaluation of application information. Employment applications will be fully reviewed and evaluated based on minimum requirements, desirable qualifications, AND supplemental information.

Only the most highly qualified applicants as determined under Part I will be invited to continue in the examination process under Part II.

Part II: An Appraisal (Oral) Interview weighted 100%.
The appraisal (oral) interview will assess the applicant’s knowledge, experience, and general ability to perform the essential functions of the position.

Those candidates which are determined eligible for hire under the Los Angeles County's Civil Services Rules may be invited to the selection process which may be comprised of a selection interview and/or job-related assessments.

CANDIDATES MUST ACHIEVE A PASSING SCORE OF 70% OR HIGHER ON THE WEIGHTED PORTION OF THE EXAMINATION IN ORDER TO BE PLACED ON THE ELIGIBLE LIST.
EXAMINATION NOTIFICATIONS
All selection invitations (e.g. oral, performance, written, etc.) and/or special notices will be sent to candidates via email to the email address provided on the official application only. Ensure your email address is correct at the time of filing. Allegations of not receiving the email notification to the email address provided on the official application will not be considered an acceptable reason to authorize an early or late examination administration.
To ensure that our emails are not filtered into your "junk" or "bulk" folder, please add governmentjobs.com and lacera.com to your list of trusted senders.
DO NOT select "Off" under Email Preferences within your profile or click "Unsubscribe" on our notices if you would like LACERA to notify you regarding your application status, test schedules, and other important information pertaining to your candidacy for this position. Moreover, please add Ealcazar@lacera.com and info@governmentjobs.com to your email address book and to the list of approved senders to prevent email notifications from being blocked or filtered as spam/junk/clutter email from your email provider.

LACERA will not consider allegations of not receiving the email notification as an acceptable reason to authorize a reschedule or late exam administration.

ELIGIBLE INFORMATION
The names of candidates receiving a passing grade will be placed on the eligible list in the order of their score group for a period of twelve (12) months following the date of promulgation.

Those candidates which are determined eligible for hire under the Los Angeles County's Civil Services Rules may be invited to the selection process which may be comprised of a selection interview and/or job-related assessments. Testing will be conducted online. Applicants will be responsible for having access to a computer and internet access.
APPLICATION AND FILING INFORMATION
Application must be submitted online. Applicants can check the status of their applications at any time by logging into their account on www.governmentjobs.com.

The acceptance of an employment application depends upon whether or not an applicant has provided adequate information that clearly demonstrates meeting the Minimum/Selection Requirements for the position as stated above. Please complete the application and supplemental questionnaire thoroughly and completely. Information provided in the supplemental questionnaire must be reflected in the application to be considered.

Failure to provide complete information on the employment application and on the supplemental questionnaire will impact the assessment of an applicant's qualifications and acceptance in the selection process.

Applications submitted without the complete work history and the supplemental questions completed in their entirety will be rejected as incomplete. "See application" or "See resume" or copy and paste of work experience is not sufficient or qualifying responses.

Resumes will not be accepted in lieu of the completed application or supplemental questionnaire.

Your employment history should be listed in order beginning with the most recent.

For each job held, provide the name and address of your employer, your job titles, beginning and ending dates, description of work performed, and reason for leaving.

If you have worked in more than one position for one employer, list each job title and/or area of assignment separately on the application to demonstrate your experience in various assignments/occupational areas.

Part-time experience will be evaluated on the basis of its fractional equivalent of a 40-hour workweek.

All required experience must be paid.

This position may require working evenings, weekends, and holidays.

IMPORTANT NOTE
Please note that all information included in the application materials is subject to verification at any point during the examination and hiring process, including after an appointment has been made. Falsification of any information may result in disqualification or rescission of appointment.

Using verbiage from the Classification Specification, Minimum Requirements, and/or Desirable Qualifications serving as your description of duties or responses to the supplemental questions will not be sufficient to demonstrate that you meet the requirements. Doing so may result in your application being incomplete and you may be disqualified. Applications may be rejected at any stage of the examination process.

TO APPLY ONLINE GO TO: www.lacera.com and click on the Careers link.

Faxed, emailed, or hardcopy (paper) applications will not be accepted.

COMPUTER AND INTERNET ACCESS AT PUBLIC LIBRARIES
For candidates who may not have regular access to a computer or the internet, applications can be completed on computers at public libraries throughout Los Angeles County.

Candidate(s) who complete examination process with acceptable results will be considered by the Department hiring authority. Upon an offer of employment, a comprehensive background investigation will be conducted, which includes verification of experience, and/or education, credit history, and fingerprinting through the California Department of Justice and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

BACKGROUND CHECK
Except for a very limited number of positions, Candidates will not be asked to provide information about conviction history until they receive a contingent offer of employment. LACERA will make an individualized assessment of whether or not a Candidates' Conviction History has a direct or adverse relationship with the specific duties of the job, and consider potential mitigating factors, including but not limited to; evidence and extent of rehabilitation, recency of the offense(s), and age at the time of the offense(s). If asked to provide information about conviction history, any convictions or court records which are exempted by a valid court order do not have to be disclosed.

SPECIAL INFORMATION
Anti-Racism, Diversity, and Inclusion (ARDI)
LACERA recognizes and affirms that all people are created equal and are entitled to all rights afforded by the Constitution of the United States. LACERA is committed to promoting Anti-racism, Diversity, and Inclusion efforts to address the inequalities and disparities amongst races. We support the ARDI Strategic Plan and its goals by improving equality, diversity, and inclusion in recruitment, selection, and employment practices.

Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance (FCIHO)
LACERA is a Fair Chance employer. Except for a very limited number of positions, you will not be asked to provide information about a conviction history unless you receive a contingent offer of employment. LACERA will make an individualized assessment of whether your conviction history has a direct or adverse relationship with the specific duties of the job, and consider potential mitigating factors, including, but not limited to, evidence and extent of rehabilitation, recency of the offense(s), and age at the time of the offense(s). If asked to provide information about a conviction history, any convictions or court records which are exempted by a valid court order do not have to be disclosed.

Testing Accommodation:
If you require an accommodation to fairly compete in any part of the assessment process, you will be given an opportunity to make a request when completing your application. Please note, you may be required to submit documentation from a qualified medical provider or other qualified professional to support your request for a testing accommodation

Requests for accommodation: humanresources@lacera.com
Teletype Telephone: (800) 899-4099
Department Contact Name: Erika Alcazar
Department Contact Telephone: (626) 408-8517
Department Email: humanresources@lacera.com
Pasadena CA United States

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