The Assistant Sergeant-at-Arms II serves in a protective role that is specific to the California Legislature. It is a sworn, armed, non-uniformed peace-officer position responsible for dignitary protection, security in and around legislative facilities, threat assessment, response to calls for protection of life and property, and coordination with other law-enforcement agencies.
The environment changes with the legislative calendar. An officer may be working a security post in the Capitol complex, supporting a committee hearing, protecting an Assemblymember at an event, preparing an intelligence assessment, or traveling for legislative business. Professional business attire is part of the non-uniformed assignment.
Dignitary Protection Is Broader Than a Fixed Security Post
The Assembly posting describes protection of Members and physical security for the State Capitol, Assembly Chamber, legislative offices, committee hearings, and special events. Protective work can also extend to district or other locations where legislative business occurs. Officers have to remain attentive to the environment while allowing the institution to function as a public workplace.
That balance is important: the role enforces laws and rules but also maintains decorum, protocol, customs, and Assembly practices. Communication with Members, staff, lobbyists, visitors, and partner agencies is part of how security is delivered.
Threat Assessment and Intelligence Are Normal Duties
The job includes detailed reports, threat assessments, and monitoring websites and social media for intelligence. Those duties require a different skill set from visible protection alone. Information has to be evaluated for credibility and relevance, documented clearly, and shared appropriately without overstating a weak signal or ignoring a meaningful one.
- Respond to calls involving protection of life and property.
- Perform security posts and sweeps in the Capitol complex.
- Prepare reports and threat assessments.
- Monitor online sources for intelligence relevant to legislative safety.
- Coordinate with other law-enforcement agencies.
The Minimum Peace-Officer Credentials Are Specific
Applicants must be at least 21, have a high school diploma or GED, provide proof of U.S. citizenship, hold a valid California driver’s license with a favorable driving history, and meet the POST requirements in the posting. A POST Basic Certificate is required; the announcement explicitly states that PC 832 alone does not satisfy that requirement.
The selection process also includes an oral interview, physical and psychological examinations, and a background investigation. Prior dignitary-protection or law-enforcement experience is desirable, but the posting also emphasizes independent work, precise communication, customer service, and sound judgment under stress.
Legislative Work Can Change the Schedule
Extended hours and weekends may be necessary when legislative functions require them, and the position can involve travel within California as well as domestic or international travel. Candidates should consider that flexibility part of the job rather than an occasional exception, particularly during periods when hearings, floor activity, or Member events create additional protection needs.
The Assembly Uses a Direct Application Process
This recruitment does not use the CalCareers application flow. The official posting asks candidates to email a detailed resume or CV and a cover letter explaining interest in the position and how the applicant meets the minimum and desirable qualifications. That makes the cover letter a substantive screening document rather than a generic introduction.
Use examples that show protective judgment, report writing, independent decision-making, professional interaction with high-profile or public-facing stakeholders, and any relevant intelligence or dignitary-protection work. The recruitment is continuous, so verify that the posting and contact information remain current before sending the package.
How to Apply
Applications can be submitted to: Karen.Gutierrez@asm.ca.gov
Official source: View vacancy notice