STUDENT ASSISTANT

Job Description and Duties

Per CCR 249.3, this job control may be used to fill subsequent vacancies.

The Office of Information Technology Services (OITS) is recruiting to fill one (1) Student Assistant position. This on-site (in-office) position is at the headquarters of the California Department of Food and Agriculture, located in downtown Sacramento at 1220 N Street, Sacramento, CA.

As a Student Assistant within the Service Desk Office, under the close supervision of the Information Technology Supervisor II, and in a learning capacity, the incumbent will assist with various technical duties to support computer systems within a networked environment. The incumbent will receive guidance and mentorship from senior service desk staff, learning firsthand from experienced professionals in the field. Additionally, the incumbent will provide first-level call support, addressing inquiries and resolving technical issues to ensure smooth operation for users. Effective communication with clients and colleagues, both verbally and in writing, is paramount, while fostering positive working relationships. This role requires the ability to work independently under supervision, make appropriate decisions, and prioritize tasks efficiently. Adherence to departmental policies regarding attendance and conduct is essential, along with a commitment to ongoing learning and skill development in IT tasks and technologies. Consistent attendance and strong communication skills are crucial for success in this role.

Preferred qualifications may include relevant coursework in IT or related fields, along with a willingness to learn and grow within the position.

This position requires the incumbent to communicate effectively orally as well as in writing; conduct themselves professionally in dealing with other employees and contractors; develop and maintain knowledge and skills related to the position’s specific tasks, methodologies, materials, tools, and equipment; complete assignments in a timely and efficient manner, and adhere to departmental policies and procedures regarding attendance, leave, and conduct.

Candidates may perform these essential functions with or without reasonable accommodation.

You will find additional information about the job in the .

Working Conditions

The duties of this position are primarily conducted indoors in an office environment. The incumbent will have a workstation with modular furniture, an adjustable rolling chair, a computer with various software programs, a telephone with voicemail, and stationary filing drawers and bins. The position requires the ability to sit for extended periods of time and operate a personal computer utilizing a mouse and keyboard.

The incumbent must be able to participate in meetings and interact with other staff. They must also be able to : push buttons on a keyboard, calculator, photocopy machine, facsimile machine, and telephone; grasp papers, small objects, and manuals; access upper and lower files and cabinets; and exert up to 15 lbs. of force occasionally and / or a negligible amount of force frequently to move or position objects.

Regular or recurring telework may occur as part of the incumbent’s ongoing regular schedule in accordance with CDFA’s Telework Policy.

Special Requirements

This is a non-testing classification, therefore anyone meeting the minimum qualifications listed on the classification specification may apply for this position.

Individuals who are, or have been, a dependent child in foster care, a homeless youth, or a formerly incarcerated youth as defined by Government Code section 18220 are encouraged to apply and will be given priority. If you are applying under this eligibility status, please note on your application your eligibility by stating “preference under Government Code section 18220”. Please note that prior to appointment, individuals claiming preference under one of these categories will be required to furnish documentation establishing their eligibility.

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Learn more about the defined benefit plan that is offered to state employees through the California Public Employees' Retirement System (CalPERS) based on years of service, age and final compensation. CalPERS also offers disability retirement, partial service retirement, and death benefits for eligible employees.

401(k) and 457(b) Plans (Savings Plus)

Offers a voluntary benefit that allows you to contribute to both a 401(k) and a 457(b) plan to enhance your retirement benefit. This allows you to contribute, through payroll deduction, up to twice the amount available to the private sector and most public sector employees. You can contribute on both a pre-tax and an after-tax designated Roth basis that offers you the opportunity to take advantage of tax savings now and in the future.

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Cash In Lieu of Health and / or Dental Benefits (Cash Option)

Allows you to receive cash in lieu of state-sponsored health and / or dental benefits insurance if you have other qualifying medical and / or dental coverage through a spouse, domestic partner, parent or other source.

Common Carrier Travel and Accident Insurance – for Excluded Employees Only

Offers employer-paid accidental death and dismemberment insurance to managers, supervisors and other specified employees who travel on state business.

Commute Program

Voluntary benefits that subsidize commuting expenses for eligible employees who commute to and from work using public transportation, vanpools, or bicycles.

Consolidated Benefits (CoBen)

Provides a benefit allowance, rather than specific contribution amounts for health, dental and vision benefits. You may receive additional taxable income each month, depending on the total cost of the benefit plans you choose.

Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (COBRA)

Continuation of health, dental, and vision insurance coverage as well as medical reimbursement account for employees and eligible dependents who involuntarily lose coverage.

Death Benefits

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Offers you and your dependents preventive, basic and major dental care coverage through one of several dental plans.

Employee Assistance Program

Employer-paid program offers free professional and confidential short-term counseling and referral services to employees and their eligible dependents, as well as valuable information on a variety of topics including financial, legal, and wellness.

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Group Legal Services Insurance

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Group Long-Term Disability Insurance – For Excluded Employees Only

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Health Benefits

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CalPERS Health and Wellness

Promotes a work environment that encourages healthy lifestyle choices, decreases the risk of illness and disease and enhances employee effectiveness and well-being.

Long-Term Care Program

Offers coverage through CalPERS for a chronic illness, frailty of old age, or a serious accident. Available to all California public employees, retirees, and their eligible family members.

Part-time, Seasonal, and Temporary Retirement Program

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Reimbursement Accounts

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Third-Party Pre-Tax Parking Reimbursement Account Program

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Vision Benefits

Employer-paid benefit that offers you and your dependents an annual eye examination and an allowance for frames and lenses. An enhanced vision plan is also available which provides higher allowances for certain materials and other benefits.