HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT SPECIALIST I
California Department of Developmental Services, Sacramento, California, United States, 95828
Work Location
Sacramento County
Job Description and Duties Under the general direction of the Community Development Division, Housing Finance and Asset Management Branch Chief (CEA A) within the Community Development Division (CDD), the Housing and Community Development Specialist I (HCDS I) provides project management, coordination, and subject matter expertise on critical and sensitive statewide initiatives related to project development, financing, and asset management of multifamily housing under the Community Placement Plan (CPP) and Community Resource Development Plan (CRDP) for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). The HCDS I is responsible for managing multifamily housing projects and loan activities aimed at expanding statewide housing resources for individuals with complex service needs. Additionally, the position provides subject matter expertise and technical assistance to regional centers, Department of Developmental Services (Department) staff, and funding lenders to ensure successful project implementation and compliance with applicable regulations and guidelines.
Effective July 1, 2025, State employees are subject to a salary reduction of three percent in exchange for five hours per month of the Personal Leave.
You will find additional information about the job in the
Duty Statement .
Working Conditions Under Government Code 14200, this position is a hybrid, in‑office/telework position, and may be subject to change. The incumbent can be required to report to the office, or any designated location at any time. Telework agreements can be modified and/or cancelled at any time. All commute expenses to the reporting location will be the responsibility of the selected candidate.
Pursuant to California Government Code requirements, candidates must be residents of the State of California at the time of appointment.
This position requires lawful authorization to work in the United States. The Department does not sponsor employment visas for this position.
Position Details
Job Code #:
JC-507673
Position #(s):
472-557-9035-917
Working Title:
HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT SPECIALIST I
Classification:
HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT SPECIALIST I
Salary:
$6,623.00 – $8,290.00 (new to State candidates will be hired into the minimum salary of the classification or minimum of alternate range when applicable)
# of Positions:
1
Telework:
Hybrid
Job Type:
Permanent, Full Time
Department Information The California Department of Developmental Services (Department) is the agency through which the State of California provides services and supports to individuals with developmental disabilities. These disabilities include intellectual disability, cerebral palsy, epilepsy, autism and related conditions. Services are provided through state‑operated developmental centers and community facilities, and contracts with 21 nonprofit regional centers. The regional centers serve as a local resource to help find and access the services and supports available to individuals with developmental disabilities and their families.
The Department Is Located In a Modern, Sustainable And Innovative Office Building At 1215 “O” Street, Sacramento, California. Some Amenities Of The Building Include:
First floor retail space (separate access from 12 th Street)
Café with multiple vendors
Outdoor seating for meal breaks
Employee fitness center which includes a yoga studio, cardio equipment and weights
Plaza area with kitchenette on each floor
Lactation rooms
Department Website:
http://www.dds.ca.gov
Special Requirements The Statement of Qualifications (SOQ) must be numbered in the same order as the following areas, typed in 12‑point Arial font, single spaced, and be no more than two pages in length. Applicants who fail to answer the questions or submit an SOQ may not be considered.
Based on the duty statement and desired qualifications, please describe your experience in the following areas: real estate and affordable multifamily housing financing; underwriting and loan closing; diplomacy and stakeholder engagement; policy development; and change management. In your response, provide specific examples that demonstrate your expertise and accomplishments in these areas.
Please describe how you would apply your housing and loan underwriting experience to manage a complex multifamily housing loan portfolio. In your response, address how you would execute underwriting, manage risk and perform financial reviews, evaluate loan contingencies, manage multiple loan closings under strict timelines, balance competing priorities effectively and navigate applicable Department, State, Federal, or local housing laws and regulations. Please provide specific examples from your past experiences that demonstrate your ability to perform these tasks.
If you are using list eligibility from an on‑line exam to qualify for this position, you MUST include with your application any documentation (i.e., copy of transcript, degree, license, etc.) to verify meeting the MQ’s or you may not be considered for the position.
The MQs will be verified prior to interview and/or appointment. If it is determined that an applicant does not meet the MQs of the classification, the applicant may not be considered and withheld from the eligible list.
Application Instructions Completion Requirements
Completed applications and all required documents must be received or postmarked by the Final Filing Date in order to be considered. Dates printed on Mobile Bar Codes, such as the Quick Response (QR) Codes available at the USPS, are not considered Postmark dates for the purpose of determining timely filing of an application.
Final Filing Date: 2/23/2026
Who May Apply Individuals who are currently in the classification, eligible for lateral transfer, eligible for reinstatement, have list or LEAP eligibility, are in the process of obtaining list eligibility, or have SROA and/or Surplus eligibility (please attach your letter, if available). SROA and Surplus candidates are given priority; therefore, individuals with other eligibility may be considered in the event no SROA or Surplus candidates apply.
Applications will be screened and only the most qualified applicants will be selected to move forward in the selection process. Applicants must meet the Minimum Qualifications stated in the Classification Specification(s).
How To Apply Complete Application Packages (including Your Examination/Employment Application (STD 678) And Applicable Or Required Documents) Must Be Submitted To Apply For This Job Posting. Application Packages May Be Submitted Electronically Through Your CalCareer Account At
Www.CalCareers.ca.gov . When Submitting Your Application In Hard Copy, a Completed Copy Of The Application Package Listing Must Be Included. If You Choose To Not Apply Electronically, a Hard Copy Application Package May Be Submitted Through An Alternative Method Listed Below:
Address for Mailing Application Packages
Department of Developmental Services - Headquarters
N/A
Attn: Desiree Cervantes Cert Unit 1215 O Street, MS 10-40 Sacramento , CA 95814
Address for Drop‑Off Application Packages
Department of Developmental Services - Headquarters
N/A
Desiree Cervantes Cert Unit 1215 O Street, MS 10-40 Sacramento , CA 95814 08:00 AM - 05:00 PM
Required Application Package Documents
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
www.CalCareers.ca.gov . 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 optional. It may be included, but is not required.
Statement of Qualifications - A Statement of Qualifications (SOQ) is required and is a narrative discussion of how the candidate's education, training, experience, and skills meet the minimum and desirable qualifications and qualify them for the position. The SOQ serves as a documentation of each candidate's ability to present information clearly and concisely in writing. SEE “SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS” ABOVE FOR INSTRUCTIONS.
Applicants requiring reasonable accommodations for the hiring interview process must request the necessary accommodations if scheduled for a hiring interview. The request should be made at the time of contact to schedule the interview. Questions regarding reasonable accommodations may be directed to the EEO contact listed on this job posting.
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:
Knowledge of the banking and financing industry involving affordable housing (multifamily) mortgage loans. Real estate transactions, including appraisal and property evaluation techniques, the mortgage loan market and mortgage loan procedures, methods, principles, terminology used in appraising, buying, selling, financing, leasing, and managing real property. Factors affecting property values and real estate trends and mortgage credit requirements.
The Lanterman Act and programs, policies, and activities of California’s developmental disabilities services system.
Negotiation strategies and collaborative practices.
Principles and practices of policy formulation and development.
Ability to negotiate agreements with housing developers and service providers.
Prepare and present complete, concise, and clear loan proposals.
Work collaboratively in multidisciplinary teams and develop and maintain cooperative and harmonious relationships with Department staff, regional centers, other state entities, housing organizations, the public, and others.
Work with executive level professional personnel in the field relating to coordinating and developing financing for multifamily community housing for individuals with IDD.
Perform various calculations with regard to mortgage financing.
Analyze data and draw sound conclusions.
Communicate efficiently and effectively.
Reason logically and creatively.
Establish and maintain project priorities.
Ability to quickly adapt and change to the fluctuating economic environment.
Benefits As a state employee working for the Department of Developmental Services, you and your family will have access to excellent medical, dental and vision insurance benefits in addition to retirement benefits.
Benefit Eligibility May Be Based On Job Classification, Bargaining Unit, Time Base And Length Of Appointment. Additional Benefits May Also Be Outlined For Specific Bargaining Units In Employee Collective Bargaining Contracts. For More Information, Please Visit The Links Below:
State Employees - CalHR Benefits Website
CalPERS Health Benefit Summary 2026
Benefit information can be found on the CalHR website and the CalPERS website.
Contact Information The Human Resources Contact is available to answer questions regarding the position or application process.
Department Website:
http://www.dds.ca.gov
Human Resources Contact: Desiree Cervantes (916) 245-1946 desiree.cervantes@dds.ca.gov
Please direct requests for Reasonable Accommodations to the interview scheduler at the time the interview is being scheduled. You may direct any additional questions regarding Reasonable Accommodations or Equal Employment Opportunity for this position(s) to the Department's EEO Office.
EEO Contact Equal Employment Opportunity Office (916) 654-1888 OHRAS@dds.ca.gov
California Relay Service: 1-800-735-2929 (TTY), 1-800-735-2922 (Voice) TTY is a Telecommunications Device for the Deaf, and is reachable only from phones equipped with a TTY Device.
Additional Information Electronic application submission is highly encouraged.
Multiple positions may be filled from this recruitment. This recruitment may be utilized to fill future vacancies that may occur during the life of the certification list.
Possession of Minimum Qualifications will be verified prior to interview and/or appointment. If you are meeting Minimum Qualifications with education, you must include your unofficial transcripts/diploma for verification. Official transcripts may be required upon appointment. If it is determined an applicant does not meet the Minimum Qualifications, the candidate may be withheld from the eligible list, rendering them inactive and ineligible to be hired for the position. Candidates who have been withheld may file an appeal with the California Department of Human Resources.
All appointments are subject to State Restriction of Appointment (SROA), Departmental Restriction of Appointment (DROA), Re‑employment List procedures, pre‑employment physical and fingerprint clearances. Further information on the definition of the above may be found on the California Department of Human Resources' website at:
www.calhr.ca.gov .
If you have not taken the Housing and Community Development Specialist I exam/assessment you may find the exam for this classification at the link below. You must take and pass the exam/assessment to obtain eligibility for hire. Click here to gain list eligibility.
Remove Any Confidential Information Do not include any confidential information on any documents you submit for a job vacancy, such as your State application, resume, or educational transcripts. Confidential information that should be excluded or removed from these documents includes, but is not limited to, your Social Security Number (SSN), birthdate, student identification number, driver’s license number (unless required), basis of eligibility, examination results, LEAP status, marital status, and age. Confidential information on the first page of applications submitted electronically online, such as Easy ID number, SSN, examination related information, and driver’s license number will automatically be redacted upon submission.
Equal Opportunity Employer The State of California is an equal opportunity employer to all, regardless of age, ancestry, color, disability (mental and physical), exercising the right to family care and medical leave, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, marital status, medical condition, military or veteran status, national origin, political affiliation, race, religious creed, sex (includes pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding and related medical conditions), and sexual orientation.
It is an objective of the State of California to achieve a drug‑free workplace. Any applicant for state employment will be expected to behave in accordance with this objective because the use of illegal drugs is inconsistent with the law of the State, the rules governing Civil Service, and the special trust placed in public servants.
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Job Description and Duties Under the general direction of the Community Development Division, Housing Finance and Asset Management Branch Chief (CEA A) within the Community Development Division (CDD), the Housing and Community Development Specialist I (HCDS I) provides project management, coordination, and subject matter expertise on critical and sensitive statewide initiatives related to project development, financing, and asset management of multifamily housing under the Community Placement Plan (CPP) and Community Resource Development Plan (CRDP) for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). The HCDS I is responsible for managing multifamily housing projects and loan activities aimed at expanding statewide housing resources for individuals with complex service needs. Additionally, the position provides subject matter expertise and technical assistance to regional centers, Department of Developmental Services (Department) staff, and funding lenders to ensure successful project implementation and compliance with applicable regulations and guidelines.
Effective July 1, 2025, State employees are subject to a salary reduction of three percent in exchange for five hours per month of the Personal Leave.
You will find additional information about the job in the
Duty Statement .
Working Conditions Under Government Code 14200, this position is a hybrid, in‑office/telework position, and may be subject to change. The incumbent can be required to report to the office, or any designated location at any time. Telework agreements can be modified and/or cancelled at any time. All commute expenses to the reporting location will be the responsibility of the selected candidate.
Pursuant to California Government Code requirements, candidates must be residents of the State of California at the time of appointment.
This position requires lawful authorization to work in the United States. The Department does not sponsor employment visas for this position.
Position Details
Job Code #:
JC-507673
Position #(s):
472-557-9035-917
Working Title:
HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT SPECIALIST I
Classification:
HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT SPECIALIST I
Salary:
$6,623.00 – $8,290.00 (new to State candidates will be hired into the minimum salary of the classification or minimum of alternate range when applicable)
# of Positions:
1
Telework:
Hybrid
Job Type:
Permanent, Full Time
Department Information The California Department of Developmental Services (Department) is the agency through which the State of California provides services and supports to individuals with developmental disabilities. These disabilities include intellectual disability, cerebral palsy, epilepsy, autism and related conditions. Services are provided through state‑operated developmental centers and community facilities, and contracts with 21 nonprofit regional centers. The regional centers serve as a local resource to help find and access the services and supports available to individuals with developmental disabilities and their families.
The Department Is Located In a Modern, Sustainable And Innovative Office Building At 1215 “O” Street, Sacramento, California. Some Amenities Of The Building Include:
First floor retail space (separate access from 12 th Street)
Café with multiple vendors
Outdoor seating for meal breaks
Employee fitness center which includes a yoga studio, cardio equipment and weights
Plaza area with kitchenette on each floor
Lactation rooms
Department Website:
http://www.dds.ca.gov
Special Requirements The Statement of Qualifications (SOQ) must be numbered in the same order as the following areas, typed in 12‑point Arial font, single spaced, and be no more than two pages in length. Applicants who fail to answer the questions or submit an SOQ may not be considered.
Based on the duty statement and desired qualifications, please describe your experience in the following areas: real estate and affordable multifamily housing financing; underwriting and loan closing; diplomacy and stakeholder engagement; policy development; and change management. In your response, provide specific examples that demonstrate your expertise and accomplishments in these areas.
Please describe how you would apply your housing and loan underwriting experience to manage a complex multifamily housing loan portfolio. In your response, address how you would execute underwriting, manage risk and perform financial reviews, evaluate loan contingencies, manage multiple loan closings under strict timelines, balance competing priorities effectively and navigate applicable Department, State, Federal, or local housing laws and regulations. Please provide specific examples from your past experiences that demonstrate your ability to perform these tasks.
If you are using list eligibility from an on‑line exam to qualify for this position, you MUST include with your application any documentation (i.e., copy of transcript, degree, license, etc.) to verify meeting the MQ’s or you may not be considered for the position.
The MQs will be verified prior to interview and/or appointment. If it is determined that an applicant does not meet the MQs of the classification, the applicant may not be considered and withheld from the eligible list.
Application Instructions Completion Requirements
Completed applications and all required documents must be received or postmarked by the Final Filing Date in order to be considered. Dates printed on Mobile Bar Codes, such as the Quick Response (QR) Codes available at the USPS, are not considered Postmark dates for the purpose of determining timely filing of an application.
Final Filing Date: 2/23/2026
Who May Apply Individuals who are currently in the classification, eligible for lateral transfer, eligible for reinstatement, have list or LEAP eligibility, are in the process of obtaining list eligibility, or have SROA and/or Surplus eligibility (please attach your letter, if available). SROA and Surplus candidates are given priority; therefore, individuals with other eligibility may be considered in the event no SROA or Surplus candidates apply.
Applications will be screened and only the most qualified applicants will be selected to move forward in the selection process. Applicants must meet the Minimum Qualifications stated in the Classification Specification(s).
How To Apply Complete Application Packages (including Your Examination/Employment Application (STD 678) And Applicable Or Required Documents) Must Be Submitted To Apply For This Job Posting. Application Packages May Be Submitted Electronically Through Your CalCareer Account At
Www.CalCareers.ca.gov . When Submitting Your Application In Hard Copy, a Completed Copy Of The Application Package Listing Must Be Included. If You Choose To Not Apply Electronically, a Hard Copy Application Package May Be Submitted Through An Alternative Method Listed Below:
Address for Mailing Application Packages
Department of Developmental Services - Headquarters
N/A
Attn: Desiree Cervantes Cert Unit 1215 O Street, MS 10-40 Sacramento , CA 95814
Address for Drop‑Off Application Packages
Department of Developmental Services - Headquarters
N/A
Desiree Cervantes Cert Unit 1215 O Street, MS 10-40 Sacramento , CA 95814 08:00 AM - 05:00 PM
Required Application Package Documents
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
www.CalCareers.ca.gov . 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 optional. It may be included, but is not required.
Statement of Qualifications - A Statement of Qualifications (SOQ) is required and is a narrative discussion of how the candidate's education, training, experience, and skills meet the minimum and desirable qualifications and qualify them for the position. The SOQ serves as a documentation of each candidate's ability to present information clearly and concisely in writing. SEE “SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS” ABOVE FOR INSTRUCTIONS.
Applicants requiring reasonable accommodations for the hiring interview process must request the necessary accommodations if scheduled for a hiring interview. The request should be made at the time of contact to schedule the interview. Questions regarding reasonable accommodations may be directed to the EEO contact listed on this job posting.
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:
Knowledge of the banking and financing industry involving affordable housing (multifamily) mortgage loans. Real estate transactions, including appraisal and property evaluation techniques, the mortgage loan market and mortgage loan procedures, methods, principles, terminology used in appraising, buying, selling, financing, leasing, and managing real property. Factors affecting property values and real estate trends and mortgage credit requirements.
The Lanterman Act and programs, policies, and activities of California’s developmental disabilities services system.
Negotiation strategies and collaborative practices.
Principles and practices of policy formulation and development.
Ability to negotiate agreements with housing developers and service providers.
Prepare and present complete, concise, and clear loan proposals.
Work collaboratively in multidisciplinary teams and develop and maintain cooperative and harmonious relationships with Department staff, regional centers, other state entities, housing organizations, the public, and others.
Work with executive level professional personnel in the field relating to coordinating and developing financing for multifamily community housing for individuals with IDD.
Perform various calculations with regard to mortgage financing.
Analyze data and draw sound conclusions.
Communicate efficiently and effectively.
Reason logically and creatively.
Establish and maintain project priorities.
Ability to quickly adapt and change to the fluctuating economic environment.
Benefits As a state employee working for the Department of Developmental Services, you and your family will have access to excellent medical, dental and vision insurance benefits in addition to retirement benefits.
Benefit Eligibility May Be Based On Job Classification, Bargaining Unit, Time Base And Length Of Appointment. Additional Benefits May Also Be Outlined For Specific Bargaining Units In Employee Collective Bargaining Contracts. For More Information, Please Visit The Links Below:
State Employees - CalHR Benefits Website
CalPERS Health Benefit Summary 2026
Benefit information can be found on the CalHR website and the CalPERS website.
Contact Information The Human Resources Contact is available to answer questions regarding the position or application process.
Department Website:
http://www.dds.ca.gov
Human Resources Contact: Desiree Cervantes (916) 245-1946 desiree.cervantes@dds.ca.gov
Please direct requests for Reasonable Accommodations to the interview scheduler at the time the interview is being scheduled. You may direct any additional questions regarding Reasonable Accommodations or Equal Employment Opportunity for this position(s) to the Department's EEO Office.
EEO Contact Equal Employment Opportunity Office (916) 654-1888 OHRAS@dds.ca.gov
California Relay Service: 1-800-735-2929 (TTY), 1-800-735-2922 (Voice) TTY is a Telecommunications Device for the Deaf, and is reachable only from phones equipped with a TTY Device.
Additional Information Electronic application submission is highly encouraged.
Multiple positions may be filled from this recruitment. This recruitment may be utilized to fill future vacancies that may occur during the life of the certification list.
Possession of Minimum Qualifications will be verified prior to interview and/or appointment. If you are meeting Minimum Qualifications with education, you must include your unofficial transcripts/diploma for verification. Official transcripts may be required upon appointment. If it is determined an applicant does not meet the Minimum Qualifications, the candidate may be withheld from the eligible list, rendering them inactive and ineligible to be hired for the position. Candidates who have been withheld may file an appeal with the California Department of Human Resources.
All appointments are subject to State Restriction of Appointment (SROA), Departmental Restriction of Appointment (DROA), Re‑employment List procedures, pre‑employment physical and fingerprint clearances. Further information on the definition of the above may be found on the California Department of Human Resources' website at:
www.calhr.ca.gov .
If you have not taken the Housing and Community Development Specialist I exam/assessment you may find the exam for this classification at the link below. You must take and pass the exam/assessment to obtain eligibility for hire. Click here to gain list eligibility.
Remove Any Confidential Information Do not include any confidential information on any documents you submit for a job vacancy, such as your State application, resume, or educational transcripts. Confidential information that should be excluded or removed from these documents includes, but is not limited to, your Social Security Number (SSN), birthdate, student identification number, driver’s license number (unless required), basis of eligibility, examination results, LEAP status, marital status, and age. Confidential information on the first page of applications submitted electronically online, such as Easy ID number, SSN, examination related information, and driver’s license number will automatically be redacted upon submission.
Equal Opportunity Employer The State of California is an equal opportunity employer to all, regardless of age, ancestry, color, disability (mental and physical), exercising the right to family care and medical leave, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, marital status, medical condition, military or veteran status, national origin, political affiliation, race, religious creed, sex (includes pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding and related medical conditions), and sexual orientation.
It is an objective of the State of California to achieve a drug‑free workplace. Any applicant for state employment will be expected to behave in accordance with this objective because the use of illegal drugs is inconsistent with the law of the State, the rules governing Civil Service, and the special trust placed in public servants.
#J-18808-Ljbffr