What We Offer

The County of Ventura offers an attractive compensation and benefits package that includes:

• Educational Incentive - An educational incentive of 2.5% for completion of an associate's degree, 3.5% for completion of a bachelor's degree, OR 5% for completion of a graduate's degree.
• Bilingual Incentive - Proficiency levels by exam are $.69 per hour (Level I), $1.00 per hour (Level II), or $1.32 per hour (Level III).
• Annual Leave Accrual - New regular, full-time employees in this classification will earn 208 hours per year, increasing to 288 hours after 5 years of service.
• Annual Leave Redemption - An employee may elect to "cash in" or redeem up to 100 hours of vacation accrued in the same year after using 80 hours of vacation in the preceding 12 months.
• Deferred Compensation - Eligible to participate in the County's 401(k) Shared Savings Plan and/or the Section 457 Plan. This position is eligible for up to a 3.00% match on your 401(k) contributions.
• Health Plans - Full time employees are given a flexible credit allowance of up to $25,558 annually to offset the purchase of medical, dental, and/or vision insurance for you and your dependents.
  • Employee only - $509 per biweekly pay period
  • Employee plus one dependent - $779 per biweekly pay period
  • Employee plus family - $983 per biweekly pay period
• Flexible Spending Accounts - Choice of participation in the Flexible Spending Accounts which increase spending power through reimbursement of pre-tax dollars for IRS approved dependent care and health care expenses.
• Pension Plan - Both the County and employees contribute to the County's Retirement Plan and to Social Security. If eligible, reciprocity may be established with other public retirement systems, such as PERS.
• Holidays - 12 paid days per year, which includes a scheduled floating holiday.
• Additional Benefits - Tuition Reimbursement, Disability Plans, Employee Assistance Program, Life Insurance, Wellness Program.

Our County and Community
Ventura County is located on California's "Gold Coast," approximately 35 miles northwest of Los Angeles and 20 miles southeast of Santa Barbara. The County includes 42 miles of coastline which is home to the fol­lowing cities and points of interest: Camarillo, Fillmore, Moorpark, Ojai, Oxnard, Port Hueneme, Santa Paula, Simi Valley, Thousand Oaks, and Ventura as well as national protected areas such as parts of the Angeles National Forest, Channel Islands National Park, and the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area. Ventura County’s beauty and weather combined with a wonderful quality of life are among the many reasons our residents choose to call Ventura County "home."

Treasurer-Tax Collector's Office

The Treasurer-Tax Collector (TTC) of Ventura provides service to the public through two distinct divisions: Treasury and Tax Collection. The Treasury Department is the depository for county agencies, school districts, and special district funds. Treasury performs core banking functions at a scale comparable to a mid-sized financial institution, managing over $14 billion annually.

The Tax Collector's role is to administer the billing, collection, and reporting of property tax revenues levied annually throughout the county, incorporated cities, county schools and special districts. The Tax Collection division operates with three units of responsibility: Public Service, Accounting and Delinquent Collections. Each unit's duties are integrated and overlap to accommodate the workload.

The Position

This position provides analytical and operational support related to cash flow management, investment research, portfolio management, credit analysis, portfolio monitoring, compliance reporting, and other special projects.

Distinguishing Characteristics:

Each successive level in the Investment Officer series is distinguished by the scope of independence and responsibility. The level of the position within the series is commensurate with the complexity of the assigned tasks.

Investment Officer ($3,834.26 - $5,367.97 bi-weekly) – This is the entry-level management classification in the Investment Officer series. Under the general supervision of the Senior Investment Officer or senior management, the incumbent will assist the investment team in the overall administration of the County’s investment program. This role involves analyzing and reporting on financial information while supporting portfolio management, investment compliance, and risk assessment. This position may supervise lower-level staff.

Senior Investment Officer ($4,527.02 - $6,337.83 bi-weekly) - This is the fully experienced management classification in the series and reports to the Chief Investment Officer-E or designated executive personnel. The incumbent is expected to perform the full range of duties involving complex and diverse work assignments with a significant level of independent judgment.

The Investment Officer is distinguished from the Senior Investment Officer in that the latter has greater responsibility for the County's investment program, requiring specialized technical or functional expertise in the performance of their duties. This role serves as a subject matter expert and is responsible for ensuring compliance with investment policies and federal, state, and local laws and regulations. This position is assigned to manage lower-level staff.

Investment Officer and Senior Investment Officer are Management classifications and are not eligible for overtime compensation.

TENTATIVE SCHEDULE
OPENING DATE: October 2, 2025
CLOSING DATE: Continuous and may close at any time
REVIEW OF APPLICATIONS: Applications will be reviewed on a weekly basis beginning the week of October 20, 2025.

Depending on level, duties may include but are not limited to the following:

• Develops, assists, and/or executes investment strategies under the Treasurer’s direction, aligning with financial objectives, liquidity needs, risk tolerance, and compliance with Government Code, Investment Policy, and local regulations.
• Manages day-to-day investment operations, including trade execution, cash-flow and liquidity analysis, and portfolio monitoring.
• Conducts comprehensive market research and financial analysis on fixed-income securities, economic indicators, interest-rate trends, market movements, and regulatory changes.
• Prepares and presents investment performance analyses, benchmark comparisons, audit-ready financial reports for senior management; refines benchmarking tools and performance-measurement metrics.
• Evaluates credit risk and performs due diligence on brokers, dealers, and issuers; maintains, updates, and recommends modifications to approved counterparty lists.
• Maintains relationships with brokers, dealers, and financial institutions, ensuring adherence to investment policies and updating related documentation and questionnaires.
• Develops, reviews, and improves investment policies, procedures, guidelines, and processes; recommends updates and implements automation or process-improvement initiatives.
• Executes and records trades in the investment management system and trading databases, maintaining accurate accounting and transaction records.
• Supervises and mentors investment staff: assigns tasks, evaluates performance, provides training, addresses personnel issues, and participates in hiring.
• Collaborates with senior leadership, including the Chief Investment Officer-E and Treasurer, to support strategic initiatives, policy development, and advanced financial analysis.
• Ensures adherence to fiscal policies consistent with county standards, Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP), and Governmental Accounting Standards Board (GASB) guidelines.
• Serves as backup to the Treasury Manager and provides auxiliary support to the Treasury unit.
• Performs other related duties and special projects as assigned.

EDUCATION, TRAINING, and EXPERIENCE:

Any combination of education, professional licenses, training, and experience that would likely provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities. An example of qualifying education/experience is:

Investment Officer:

Possession of a Bachelor’s degree in Economics, Accounting, Finance, Business, or a related field to the assignment.

OR

Three (3) years of professional-level investment management experience in a public agency, commercial bank, investment banking firm, or brokerage firm, which included responsibility for the purchase and/or sale of money market instruments, analysis of fixed-income investment securities, economic forecasting, and/or experience managing a multimillion-dollar fixed-income investment portfolio.

Senior Investment Officer:

Possession of a Bachelor’s degree in Economics, Accounting, Finance, Business, or a related field to the assignment.

AND

Five (5) years of professional-level investment management experience in a public agency, commercial bank, investment banking firm, or brokerage firm, which included responsibility for the purchase and/or sale of money market instruments, analysis of short-term investments, economic forecasting, and/or experience managing a multimillion-dollar fixed-income investment portfolio.

Additional years of experience may be substituted for the education requirement on a year-for-year basis.

NECESSARY SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:

Investment Officer:

• At least one (1) year of the required experience must include management or oversight of unit operations, program development, or project management.

Senior Investment Officer:

• At least two (2) years of the required experience must include direct supervisory experience to include oversight of unit operations, program development, or project management.

DESIRED:

• Possession of one or more of the following:

  • Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) licenses

  • A Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA)

  • Certified Public Accountant (CPA)

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, and ABILITIES:

Investment Officer

Knowledge of:

• Investment Principles and Fixed Income Securities – Understanding of bond markets, credit ratings, interest rate risk, and portfolio diversification.
• Regulatory and Compliance Framework – General knowledge of federal, state, and local laws governing municipal investments, including Government Code and Investment Policy.
• Macroeconomics and Compliance – Awareness of economic indicators, interest rate movements, and their impact on public sector investments.
• Liquidity and Cash Flow Management – Principles of forecasting cash flows, managing liquidity needs, and maintaining operational cash reserves.
• Portfolio Performance and Risk Metrics – Basic knowledge of performance evaluation, benchmarking, and risk mitigation techniques.
• Due Diligence and Credit Analysis – Fundamental knowledge of credit risk assessment, issuer evaluations, and broker/dealer compliance requirements.
• Technology and Investment Systems – Familiarity with investment management systems, financial reporting tools and data analysis software.
• Generally Accepted Accounting Principles, Guidelines, and Methodologies.

Skill in:

• Financial Data Analysis & Modeling – Ability to interpret financial reports, analyze securities, and assist in portfolio performance evaluation.
• Economic & Market Research – Conducting research on economic trends, interest rate changes, and fixed-income markets.
• Regulatory Compliance & Policy Adherence – Supporting adherence to investment policies, regulations, and ethical standards.
• Cash Flow Forecasting & Monitoring – Assisting in the projection of cash needs to optimize investment decisions.
• Technology & Data Management – Utilizing Excel, Bloomberg, and investment platforms to track transactions and generate reports, and implement new investment platforms.
• Written & Verbal Communication – Preparing and presenting investment summaries, compliance reports, and market research findings for senior staff.

Ability to:

• Analyze & Monitor Investment Portfolios – Track holdings, assess market conditions, and provide insights into potential risks and opportunities.
• Ensure Compliance & Accuracy – Maintain records, reconcile transactions, and support compliance monitoring efforts.
• Prioritize – Ability to work in a fast-paced environment, prioritize and manage multiple projects and tasks, and meet deadlines with an accurate and complete work product.
• Adapt to Market Changes & Investment Strategies – Learn and apply investment principles in response to evolving financial conditions.
• Supervise, Lead & Mentor Staff – Provide guidance and training to staff members, enhancing team capabilities.
• Work Collaboratively – Assist senior investment officers, treasury staff, and external financial institutions with investment and general treasury-related tasks. Possess strong customer service skills to foster and maintain effective, positive working relationships.
• Work independently – Ability to work independently and exercise sound, independent judgment with established guidelines.
• Communicate Clearly and Effectively – Effectively explain investment data, research findings, and compliance issues in both verbal and written formats. Demonstrate strong organization skills and excellent grammar.
• Think Critically and Solve Complex Problems – Problem-solving, critical thinking, and attention to detail to identify issues and impacts, research and interpret relevant data, formulate strategies, and provide solutions.

Senior Investment Officer

Knowledge of:

• Investment Strategy & Portfolio Management – Advanced knowledge of asset allocation, fixed-income securities, credit analysis, and risk-adjusted return strategies.
• Regulatory & Compliance Framework – Comprehensive understanding of municipal investment laws, policies, and ethical standards governing public funds.
• Macroeconomic & Financial Market Analysis – Ability to assess global and domestic economic conditions, interest rate environments, and their impact on portfolio management.
• Liquidity & Cash Flow Management – Expertise in structuring short and long-term investments to optimize liquidity and maximize returns.
• Performance Measurement & Benchmarking – Application of financial models to measure investment performance against benchmarks and industry standards.
• Risk Management & Due Diligence – Proficiency in evaluating credit risk, conducting due diligence on issuers, and ensuring investment safety.
• Investment Systems & Process Optimization – Knowledge of trading platforms, automation tools, and technology solutions that enhance investment operations.
• Generally Accepted Accounting Principles, Guidelines, and Methodologies.

Skill in:

• Strategic Investment Planning – Developing and implementing portfolio strategies in alignment with financial goals, risk tolerance, and policy guidelines.
• Portfolio Analysis & Risk Mitigation – Evaluating investment holdings, identifying risks, and recommending adjustments to optimize returns and compliance.
• Economic & Market Research – Conducting in-depth financial analysis to anticipate market movements and adjust investment strategies accordingly.
• Negotiation & Relationship Management – Managing broker-dealer relationships to ensure best execution and favorable pricing on investments.
• Regulatory Compliance & Governance – Ensuring investment decisions comply with legal and ethical requirements, including internal policies.
• Financial & Investment Reporting – Preparing and presenting complex investment reports, compliance documentation, and performance summaries for senior leadership and the Treasury Oversight Committee.
• Technology & Automation Integration – Designing and utilizing investment platforms and financial modeling tools to improve efficiency and data accuracy and implementing new investment platforms.

Ability to:

• Develop & Execute Investment Strategies – Apply financial expertise to structure investment portfolios that align with policy and market conditions.
• Analyze & Interpret Complex Financial Data – Utilize financial modeling and forecasting techniques to guide investment decisions.
• Prioritize – Ability to work in a fast-paced environment, prioritize and manage multiple projects and tasks, and meet deadlines with an accurate and complete work product.
• Manage Broker & Dealer Relationships – Conduct due diligence, monitor performance, and negotiate favorable terms with external partners.
• Ensure Compliance & Risk Mitigation – Maintain oversight of investment policies, procedures, and regulatory requirements to safeguard public funds.
• Manage, Lead & Mentor Staff – Provide guidance and training to staff members, enhancing team capabilities.
• Work Collaboratively – Assist senior staff, treasury staff, external financial institutions with investment and general treasury-related tasks. Possess strong customer service skills to foster and maintain effective, positive working relationships.
• Work independently – Ability to work independently and exercise sound, independent judgment with established guidelines.
• Communicate Clearly and Effectively – Effectively present investment reports, policy recommendations, and risk assessments in both verbal and written formats. Demonstrate strong organizational skills and excellent grammar.
• Adapt to Market & Regulatory Changes – Proactively adjust investment strategies in response to economic shifts and regulatory updates.
• Think Critically and Solve Complex Problems – Utilize problem-solving, critical thinking, and attention to detail to identify issues and impacts, research and interpret relevant data, formulate strategies, and provide solutions.

FILING DATE: This is a continuous recruitment and may close at any time; therefore, apply as soon as possible if you are interested in it. Applications must be received by the County of Ventura Human Resources in Ventura, California, no later than 5:00 p.m. on the closing date.

FIRST REVIEW: The first review of applications is anticipated to occur on or around October 20, 2025, and subsequent reviews may be conducted until sufficient applications are received to meet business needs.

To apply online, please refer to our website at www.ventura.org/jobs. A paper application can be obtained by calling (805) 654-5129. Our address is County of Ventura Human Resources, 800 South Victoria Avenue, L-1970, Ventura, CA 93009.

NOTE TO APPLICANTS: Sufficient information must be provided under the Education/Work Experience portion of the application and supplemental questionnaire to thoroughly and accurately demonstrate your qualifications to determine eligibility. A resume may be attached to supplement your responses in the above-referenced sections; however, it may not be submitted in lieu of the application.

INFORMATION FOR TRANSFER CANDIDATES: If presently permanently employed in another "merit" or "civil service" public agency/entity in the same or substantively similar position as is advertised, and if appointed to that position by successful performance in a "merit" or "civil service" style examination, then appointment by "Lateral Transfer" may be possible. If interested, please click here for additional information.

SUPPLEMENTAL QUESTIONNAIRE – qualifying
All applicants are required to complete and submit the questionnaire for this examination at the time of filing. This questionnaire may be used throughout the examination process to assist in determining each applicant's qualifications and acceptability for the position. Failure to complete and submit the questionnaire may result in the application being removed from further consideration.

APPLICATION EVALUATION – qualifying
All applications will be reviewed to determine whether or not the stated requirements are met. Applicants meeting the stated requirements will be invited to continue to the next step in the screening and selection process.

TRAINING & EXPERIENCE EVALUATION: A Training and Experience Evaluation (T&E) is a structured evaluation of the job application materials submitted by a candidate, including the written responses to supplemental questions. The T&E is a method for determining the better qualified applicants among those shown to meet the stated requirements. Using a T&E, applicants may be scored or ranked according to criteria that most closely meet the business needs of the department. Candidates are typically scored or ranked in relation to one another; consequently, when the pool of candidates is exceptionally strong, some qualified candidates may receive a score or rank that is moderate or lower, resulting in them not being advanced in the process.

NOTE: In a typical T&E, your training and experience are evaluated in relation to the background, experience, and factors identified for successful job performance during a job analysis. For this reason, it is recommended that your application materials clearly show your relevant background and specialized knowledge, skills, and abilities. It is also highly recommended that the supplemental questions within the application are completed with care and diligence, providing all information requested. Examinees must earn a score of seventy percent (70%) or higher to qualify for placement on the eligible list.

ORAL EXAMINATION - 100%
A job-related Oral Examination may be conducted to evaluate and compare participating candidates' knowledge, skills, and abilities in relation to those factors which job analysis has determined to be essential for successful performance of the job. Candidates must earn a score of seventy percent (70%) or higher to qualify for placement on the eligible list.

NOTE: If there are three (3) or fewer qualified applicants, an examination will not be conducted. Instead, a score of seventy percent (70%) will be assigned to each application, and each applicant will be placed on the eligible list.

The eligible list established from this recruitment may be used to fill current and future Regular (including Temporary and Fixed-term) vacancies within the Treasurer Tax Collector's Office. There is currently one (1) Regular vacancy.

Candidates successfully completing the exam process may be placed on an eligible list for a period of one (1) year. If appointed at the lower level, the incumbent may be promoted to the higher level without further examination upon meeting the minimum requirements, demonstrating satisfactory performance, and in accordance with the business needs of the department.

BACKGROUND INVESTIGATION
A thorough pre-employment, post offer background investigation, which may include inquiry into past employment, education, criminal background information, and driving record, may be required for this position.

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY
The County of Ventura 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.

For further information about this recruitment, please contact Judy Larson by email at judy.larson@venturacounty.gov or by telephone at (805)654-3611.