Department Manager Jobs in California
Department Manager jobs in California are in high demand, with openings concentrated in retail, healthcare, logistics, and consumer goods across one of the most active hiring markets in the country. Los Angeles, San Francisco, and San Diego lead in volume, where large employers like Target, Kaiser Permanente, and Amazon operate extensive California footprints and hire department managers at every level from first-line supervisor to senior operations leader. The most sought-after specialties are operations management, retail department oversight, and supply chain coordination. Scan the live roles below and apply to whichever ones fit.
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Job Posting: Manager III – Telework Hybrid
Department of Motor Vehicles
MANAGER III, DEPARTMENT OF MOTOR VEHICLES
$6,681.00 - $8,362.00 per Month
New to State candidates will be hired into the minimum salary of the classification or minimum of alternate range when applicable.
Final Filing Date: 11/30/2026
Job Description and Duties
This position is located at the DMV Headquarters in Sacramento.
Under the general direction of the Manager V, the Policy Analyst supports the department’s development, automation, maintenance, and operational functions related to Vehicle Registration (VR) automated programs. The Manager III performs assignments involving all or a combination of these duties to support internal and external VR automation needs while following established departmental policies and procedures. Responsible for VR automated programs related to registration transactions and processes, the Manager III plans, documents, tests, implements, and monitors phases of automation projects, including development of reports, dashboards, and tables that support operational and public information needs. The incumbent develops and maintains business rules and criteria necessary to ensure accurate data collection, analysis, and reporting. The Manager III leads efforts to modernize VR databases and related systems, including projects involving improved data storage, access, integration, and reporting capabilities to meet evolving program and automation requirements. The position serves as a subject matter expert for VR programs, collaborating with internal and external stakeholders, counties, and law enforcement partners to address automation, programming, and reporting needs. The incumbent identifies system or program issues, recommends solutions, and implements changes to support VR Automations development, maintenance, and operational objectives.
All eligible applicants may apply. A training and development assignment may be considered. SROA/Surplus candidates are encouraged to apply.
The position(s) being advertised may be subject to allocation approval by the Human Resources Branch. Fingerprint/Criminal Record Clearance is required before hire. The Salary Range shown is the minimum and maximum for a full-time appointment. Moving and relocation expenses will not be reimbursed for this position.
To be considered for this job vacancy, applicants must indicate the Job Control/Code (JC) number and position number(s) in the "EXAMINATION(S) OR JOB TITLE(S) FOR WHICH YOU ARE APPLYING" box of the Examination/Employment Application (STD. 678), and submit all items listed under Required Application Documents below by the Final Filing Date. Employment history information must be submitted on the Examination/Employment Application (STD. 678); attaching a resume shall not be sufficient for the purposes of providing employment history. Failure to indicate required information on the STD. 678 or submit all items by the Final Filing Date may result in elimination from the recruitment process.
You will find additional information about the job in the Duty Statement.
Working Conditions
Part-time telework available. Telework requires California residency. This position offers hybrid telework opportunities; however, telework arrangements are subject to change at any time based on State & departmental operational needs. Employees may be required to report to the office as necessary.
Work in a climate-controlled office with artificial lights. Will utilize a personal computer, telephone, printer, copier, and fax machine.
Position Details
Department Information
The Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) is a recognized leader in public service and has existed for over 100 years. The DMV is responsible for registering approximately 36 million vehicles in California, and serving 34 million driver license and identification card holders, collecting over $14 billion in annual revenue. The DMV also maintains and oversees many other functions. The DMV provides quality licensing and motor vehicle-related services in its field offices located throughout California and online at www.dmv.ca.gov
Special Requirements
- The position(s) require(s) a Background Investigation be cleared prior to being hired.
Applicants must be eligible for appointment (e.g., must take and pass examination); see Who May Apply section below for more information. Additionally, applicants must have authorization to work in the United States. Please note that we are unable to provide visa sponsorship at this time.
Using the online application system as specified in this announcement is the preferred method of applying for civil service job opportunities; however, applicants may instead apply by way of U.S. mail, parcel delivery or courier service, or in person, as set forth in this announcement. Advertisement may be used for subsequent vacancies within 180 days.
Do NOT include ANY confidential information on any documents you submit for a job vacancy, such as your Examination/Employment Application (STD. 678), 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 license number (unless required), photograph, basis of eligibility, examination results, Limited Examination and Appointment Program (LEAP) status, gender, marital status, ethnicity, and age. Confidential information on STD. 678s submitted electronically online, such as SSN, will automatically be redacted upon submission.
Possession of the Minimum Qualifications will be verified prior to interview and/or appointment. If it is determined that you do not meet the Minimum Qualifications, your name will be removed or withheld from the eligibility list, rendering your eligibility as inactive and ineligible to be hired for the position. Candidates whose names have been withheld from an eligibility list may file an appeal with the State Personnel Board.
If you are using education to meet the minimum qualifications, please include a copy of your unofficial transcripts for verification. Foreign transcripts must be accompanied by an academic credential evaluation. Below is the link to a list of approved agencies.
- Foreign Transcript Evaluation (CL-635)
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: 11/30/2026Who May 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
Address for Mailing Application Packages
You may submit your application and any applicable or required documents to:
Address for Drop-Off Application Packages
You may drop off your application and any applicable or required documents at:
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 optional. It may be included, but is not required.
- Other -
A written response to the item(s) listed in the Written Response section below, no more than 2 page(s) in length with no less than Arial 12-point font and 1-inch margins, submitted as a separate document. A resume does not take the place of a written response.
Written responses may be similar in format to a Statement of Qualifications. Be sure to follow all instructions closely. For helpful tips on crafting a strong SOQ, view CalHR’s video at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NA-mGmyx1TY.
Candidates are advised to:
- use simple formatting (avoid justified text, large text boxes, or custom bullets),
- use standard fonts like Arial or Times New Roman,
- left-align the text,
- save the written response as a PDF document, and “flatten” it before uploading by printing to PDF or using the “Save as PDF” feature, and
- submit or upload the written response PDF document as part of the application package.
Desirable Qualifications
Strong Vehicle Registration Program knowledge, interpersonal skills, and personal time management, leadership skills. Ability to analyze situations accurately and take effective action independently. Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Benefits
The Department of Motor Vehicles and the State of California offer many benefits to its employees. These include health, vision, and dental benefits; retirement plans (CalPERS); savings plans (401K and 457b); leave benefits; insurance (such as group legal insurance and group long term disability insurance); and employee assistance program. Benefits may be based on the job classification, bargaining unit, tenure, time base, and length of appointment. Click on each web link below for more information.
- Benefits summary – https://benefits.calhr.ca.gov/state-employees/general-benefits/
- Benefits afforded by membership in the California Public Employees’ Retirement System – https://benefits.calhr.ca.gov/state-employees/retirement/
- Benefits and protections provided to public employees by the State Civil Service – https://www.calhr.ca.gov/about-calhr/divisions-programs/selection-division/merit-system-services-program/
- Job descriptions and pay scales – https://calcareers.ca.gov/CalHRPublic/Tools/ClassSalarySearch.aspx
Contact Information
The Hiring Unit Contact is available to answer questions regarding the position or application process.
Gladys Moreno-Marshall
(916) 530-2738
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:Office of Civil Rights and Resolution
(916) 657-7553
Job Application Package Checklist
Contrary to the "How To Apply" and "Alternate Application Process" sections of this job posting, the Job Application Package Checklist is not required. However, applicants must submit all Required Application Documents identified under the "Application Instructions" section by the final filing date.
Written Response
- Describe your experience developing business requirements, business rules, or policy interpretations for an automated system enhancement or modernization project. Include your role and how your work supported successful implementation.
- Describe a complex automation or system development project you led or coordinated. Include how you collaborated with business and technical stakeholders, addressed challenges, and ensured project objectives were achieved.
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.
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Find Department Manager JobsDepartment Manager Jobs by City in California
Where California roles are concentrated, by current openings.
Department Manager Job Market in California
A snapshot from current California openings, updated as new roles post.
Who's Hiring
- Whole Foods Market38
- Floor & Decor27
- 99 Ranch Market7
- REI5
- AECOM4
Top Industries Hiring
- Healthcare & Medical Services
- Consulting & Professional Services
- Technology & Software
- Distribution & Wholesale
- Biotechnology & Pharmaceuticals
What California Employers Look For
The qualifications that appear most often in department manager jobs across California.
- Bachelor's degree in business administration, management, or a related field
- Three or more years of supervisory or team leadership experience
- Demonstrated ability to manage budgets and meet department performance targets
- Strong knowledge of California labor law, including meal break and overtime requirements
- Experience with inventory management, scheduling, and operational reporting systems
- Proficiency in workforce management software and standard productivity tools
Department Manager Jobs in California: Frequently Asked Questions
How do you become a department manager in California?
Most department manager roles in California require a bachelor's degree in business, management, or a related field combined with several years of supervisory experience. California does not issue a state license specific to department managers, but roles in regulated industries such as healthcare or food service may require additional California Department of Public Health or industry-specific certifications. Large California employers commonly promote internally from lead or assistant manager positions.
Which companies hire department managers in California?
Companies currently hiring department managers in California include Whole Foods Market, Floor & Decor, and 99 Ranch Market, per current listings on Migrate Mate as of November 2026. California's scale across retail, healthcare, and technology means established employers here maintain ongoing department manager pipelines rather than hiring only for backfill.
Which California cities have the most department manager jobs?
San Francisco, San Diego, and Los Angeles have the most department manager openings in California. Los Angeles dominates due to its retail, logistics, and healthcare concentration, while San Francisco and San Diego draw volume from technology campuses, hospital systems, and large distribution operations that each maintain multi-department management structures year-round.
Are there remote department manager jobs in California?
Yes, but they're rare. Department manager work is largely on-site because the role involves direct oversight of staff, inventory, and day-to-day operations. About 48% of department manager openings tied to California are remote or hybrid as of November 2026, and those positions tend to concentrate in e-commerce operations, digital retail, or administrative management functions where physical presence is less critical.
How can I get hired as a department manager in California with little or no experience?
The most realistic entry path is a step-up from a team lead, shift supervisor, or assistant manager role at a California retailer, healthcare facility, or logistics operator. Target, Kaiser Permanente, and Amazon all run California-based supervisor development programs that advance high-performing hourly or associate employees into department manager tracks. A California community college certificate in business management or operations strengthens a candidate's file when direct management experience is limited.
Where can I find and apply to department manager jobs in California?
You can find and apply to department manager jobs in California on Migrate Mate, which lists current California openings updated in real time. Search the listings, identify the roles that match your background and location, and apply directly to the ones that fit.
See All 181+ Department Manager Jobs in California
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