Cyber Security Specialist

Are you passionate about protecting data, solving complex problems, and making a real impact? The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) is looking for a tech-savvy professional to help safeguard one of the most biodiverse places on Earth! This is your chance to combine cutting-edge cybersecurity work with a mission that truly matters-protecting California's wildlife and natural resources.

As part of our Data and Technology Division in Sacramento, you'll work alongside a dynamic team under the guidance of the Chief Information Security Officer (CISO). Your role will be anything but routine. One day you might be responding to a phishing incident, the next you're evaluating security for a new project or diving into digital forensics to support investigations. You'll help shape policies, strengthen defenses, and ensure privacy compliance-all while keeping our systems secure and resilient. Your responsibilities will include managing enterprise data systems, perform risk assessments, and implementing security solutions that make a difference. You'll audit identity and access logs, champion privacy awareness, and assist with eDiscovery for legal and HR cases. For those who love a challenge, you'll also conduct forensic analysis on devices and cloud environments, ensuring integrity and accuracy every step of the way.

We're looking for someone who thrives on problem-solving, communicates clearly, and enjoys collaborating with diverse teams. If you're self-motivated, adaptable, and ready to innovate, this role offers plenty of opportunities to grow your skills and make an impact. Plus, you'll work in a supportive environment that values creativity, integrity, and teamwork. This position is primarily office-based in Sacramento, with occasional travel and statewide collaboration. You'll enjoy a mix of technical challenges and meaningful work-all while contributing to a mission that benefits every Californian. Ready to take on a role where technology meets conservation? Apply today and help us protect California's natural treasures while advancing your career in cybersecurity!

Information Technology Specialist I: Exam Bulletin Link

You will find additional information about the job in the Duty Statement .

Working Conditions

Work at a desk using a computer keyboard several hours a day. Involves sitting most of the time but may require walking or standing. This position will be headquartered in the DTD offices, but the incumbent will be expected to occasionally visit other CDFW offices, located in other buildings within walking distance. The incumbent will be required to come into the office at least twice a week. Attend meetings, work with staff statewide to complete work assignments. Occasional travel is required up to 5% of the time via private or public transportation.

Minimum Requirements You will find the Minimum Requirements in the Class Specification.

• INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY SPECIALIST I

Additional Documents

• Job Application Package Checklist
• Duty Statement

Position Details Job Code #

JC-512201

Position #(s)

565-028-1402-024

Working Title

Cyber Security Specialist

Classification

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY SPECIALIST I $6,513.00 - $8,729.00 A

$7,163.00 - $9,599.00 B

$7,864.00 - $10,537.00 C

New to State candidates will be hired into the minimum salary of the classification or minimum of alternate range when applicable.

# of Positions

1

Work Location

Sacramento County

Telework

Hybrid

Job Type

Permanent, Full Time

Department Information

Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) employees are committed to managing and protecting California's diverse wildlife and the habitats upon which they depend.

California is one of the most biodiverse places on the planet. As such, CDFW values diverse employees working together to protect nature for all Californians. CDFW is committed to fostering an inclusive work environment where all backgrounds, cultures and personal experiences can thrive and connect others to our critical mission.

Join us and begin a meaningful new career!

Application Instructions

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: 4/1/2026

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. Individuals who are eligible for a Training and Development assignment may also be considered for this position(s).

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

You may submit your application and any applicable or required documents to:

Department of Fish and Wildlife

HRB Mailing Address

Attn: Human Resources Branch

P.O. Box 944209

Sacramento , CA 94244

Address for Drop-Off Application Packages

You may drop off your application and any applicable or required documents at:

Department of Fish and Wildlife

Closed Drop Off Location

Human Resources Branch

Temporarily Closed

See Filing Instructions

Sacramento , CA 95814

Please Note: Drop-off location may be non-operational on weekends and holidays.

08:00 AM - 05:00 PM

Required Application Package Documents

The following items are required to be submitted with your application. Applicants who do not submit the required items timely may not be considered for this job:

• 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 required and must be included.

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:

Certifications

• Digital forensics certification
• CISSP, CISM, CISA, Security+, or other related security certification.

Knowledge Of

• Microsoft Azure
• Microsoft 365 administrative and security modules
• Computer forensics and eDiscovery technologies and best practices
• Information Security governance strategies and methodologies
• Information Security technical and administrative controls audits and assessments
• Enterprise Data Loss Protection
• State Administrative Manual (focus on SAM 5300)
• Working knowledge of National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) 800-53 and FBI Criminal Justice Information System (CJIS) frameworks and policies
• Working knowledge of California and federal IT security, forensics, evidentiary, and eDiscovery laws, rules, and regulation

Benefits Benefit information can be found on the CalHR website and the CalPERS website.

Filing Instructions

You must reference Position Number 565-028-1402-024 and RPA Number E-DTD 25-002 in the Examination(s) or Job Title(s) for Which You Are Applying section of the State Application Form (Std. Form 678). Applications that do not list the Position Number and RPA Number may not be considered.

It is recommended that Application Packages be submitted electronically through your CalCareer Account at https://jobs.ca.gov . If applications are mailed, we recommend applications are sent certified mail as we are unable to verify receipt.

Applications that do not follow the Filing Instructions may not be considered.

This advertisement may be used to fill additional vacancies for this JC.

Resume - Resumes will be reviewed in addition to the STD 678 for employment history. Resumes must include the complete to and from dates (MM/DD/YYYY) and hours worked per week.

All job applicants must provide their employment history on the application form (State Application STD 678) rather than attaching a resume to the form, otherwise the application may be considered incomplete.

Applicants must submit a complete and accurate application package, free from spelling, grammar, and punctuation errors.

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 work place. 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.