Lead IT Procurement Specialist

This is a 12-month limited term position, which may be extended up to 24 months or become a permanent position.

Do you enjoy working in a fast-paced environment with variety in your work? The California Department of Insurance (CDI) is seeking a dynamic Lead IT Procurement Specialist with experience leading the development of complex IT procurement solicitations, drafting and developing statements of work, and administering the IT procurement process in compliance with State guidelines, laws, rules, and regulations.

If this is you, then CDI may be the employer for you!

Under direction from an Information Technology (IT) Supervisor II, the IT Specialist I acts as the lead procurement official by coordinating and controlling all aspects of complex information technology and telecommunications acquisitions of goods and services through purchase, rental, lease, and service contracts. They assist the Business Technology Management Bureau (BTMB) Chief in developing, auditing, and training of the IT Procurement Policies and Procedures. They independently develop reports and conduct analysis of procurement activities.

This position is designated under the Conflict of Interest Code. The position is responsible for making or participating in governmental decisions that may potentially have a material effect on personal financial interests. The appointee is required to complete a Statement of Economic Interest (Form 700), which includes an Assuming Office filing within 30 days of appointment, annual filings, and a Leaving Office filing within 30 days of physical separation. Non-compliance with the Conflict of Interest Code requirements may result in the voiding of appointment, financial penalties, or enforcement actions.

Effective July 1, 2025, the California Department of Human Resources (CalHR) implemented the Personal Leave Program (PLP) 2025 and related Pay Differential 386. PLP 2025 requires employees to receive a reduction in pay in exchange for monthly hours of PLP 2025 leave credits. The salary range(s) included on this job posting do not reflect the reduction in pay. For more information, visit the CalHR website (www.calhr.ca.gov)., * The incumbent must be able to work in a high rise building.

• Ability to transport documents and/or equipment up to 15-20 lbs., i.e. laptop computer, files, reference manuals, solicitation documents, etc.
• The incumbent may telework in accordance with CDI’s Telework Policy. Teleworking employees may be required to report to their headquarters office location on designated telework days. Travel expenses are not reimbursed, however other authorized transit subsidies do exist for those who qualify.
• Occasional travel may be required within and/or outside the state of California via private or public transportation (i.e., automobile, airplane, etc.)., A Statement of Qualifications (SOQ) is Required. The SOQ serves as documentation of each candidate’s ability to present information clearly and concisely in writing. The SOQ is not a resume or cover letter. Applications received without an SOQ will not be considered. The SOQ must be titled “Statement of Qualifications” and include your first and last name at the top of the first page, typed in a minimum of 11- point font, single-spaced, with margins not less than one inch, and no more than 2 pages in length. Provide a response to each statement below, including specific examples:

1) Describe your experience performing IT procurement activities in accordance with state or public-sector purchasing policies. In your response, include your role, the types of IT goods/services procured, and how you ensured compliance with laws, rules, and procedures.

2) Explain your experience developing, reviewing, or managing solicitations such as Requests for Proposals (RFPs), Requests for Quotes (RFQs), Statements of Works (SOWs), or contract amendments for IT projects. Include specific examples that demonstrate your ability to interpret technical requirements and collaborate with cross-functional teams.

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:

• Demonstrated experience leading the development of complex IT procurement solicitations, including Requests for Proposals (RFPs), Requests for Offers (RFOs), Requests for Information (RFIs), and Requests for Quotes (RFQs).
• Skilled in drafting and developing Statements of Work (SOWs) and collaborating with stakeholders to define solicitation requirements.
• Comprehensive experience with all phases of state procurement and contracting processes related to IT Consulting and Personal Services Contracts.
• In-depth knowledge and practical experience in administering the procurement process in compliance with State guidelines, laws, rules, and regulations, including the Public Contract Code (PCC), Government Code (GC), State Administrative Manual (SAM), Statewide Information Management Manual (SIMM), and State Contracting Manual (SCM).
• Proven effectiveness in communicating with all levels of management and stakeholders, including serving as a liaison between internal teams and external entities such as the CA Department of Technology, the Department of General Services and the Department of FI$CAL.
• Strong problem-solving skills, with the ability to evaluate alternatives and make informed decisions or recommendations.
• Ability to exercise a high degree of initiative, independence of action, creativity, and must demonstrate good independent judgment.
• Strong leadership skills and ability to develop and maintain professional, effective, and cooperative working relationships.
• Ability to adapt to changing priorities and assignments, manage high-pressure situations, and meet tight deadlines.

• Flexible work hours
• Remote work options
• Medical Benefits - including health, dental, and vision insurance
• Employee Wellness Program
• Employee Assistance Program
• On the Job Training
• Career Services Program
• Recognition Program
• Paid Holidays and leave
• Defined benefit retirement program
• Savings Plus Program (401 (k), 457)
• Every 12 months, based on performance evaluation, employees may receive a 5% salary increase until they reach the maximum salary for the position.

The CDI is the consumer protection agency for the nation’s largest insurance marketplace and safeguards all of the state’s consumers by fairly regulating the insurance industry. With annual direct premiums of $340 billion, California is the largest insurance market in the United States and the fourth largest insurance market in the world.

Nearly 1,400 dedicated employees work at CDI to oversee more than 1,400 insurance companies and license more than 425,000 agents, brokers, adjusters, and business entities.