MASH Trainee (Administrative)

Full Job Description

The City of Pasadena is accepting online applications for the MASH Trainee (Administrative)- City Service Worker position in the Municipal Assistance, Solutions, and Hiring (MASH) Division of the Housing Department.

Applicants who are interested in an administrative/clerical trainee opportunity should apply to this job bulletin.

To learn more about the MASH program, please Click Here.

This City Service Worker opportunity is a temporary position with minimal City benefits. Trainees are eligible to accrue sick leave in accordance with State and Federal law. Under the Affordable Care Act, Maintenance Trainees are also eligible to elect basic health coverage for a minimal fee.

MASH Trainee positions are temporary and last up to (1) one year from the date of hire. The appointment may be extended to a maximum of (2) two years if the trainee participates in cross-training opportunities across various city departments.

In order to allow the maximum participation in the City's MASH Trainee Program, preference may be given to applicants who have not participated in the program within the past 5 years (since March 2021).

All interested candidates are encouraged to apply. Pasadena residents who provide valid proof of Pasadena residency (valid California driver’s license or identification card showing a Pasadena address, or a current utility bill) at the time of application and at the time of testing will receive additional Residential Preference points added to their final score if they are successfully placed on the eligible list.

Please note: Online applications will only be accepted from Thursday, March 12, 2026, through Thursday, March 26, 2026. Apply Now!

Requirements

The major responsibilities of this position are listed below. For more detailed information, please review the job description.

When assigned to an administrative position, the incumbent will perform the following functions under direct supervision and in a training capacity:

• Office duties such as answering phones, filing, light typing, completing forms, and performing routine recordkeeping functions
• Community outreach such as building partnerships with local organizations, participating in events, and sharing information about programs and services to increase community awareness and engagement
• Customer service such as providing professional and courteous assistance by responding to inquiries, addressing and resolving issues to the best of your ability, and providing accurate information regarding services, policies, resources, and other general questions.
• Other functions as designated by the assignment
• May also be required to drive a city vehicle depending on assignment.
• Trainees will also receive coaching for career readiness, including job searching, resume preparation, and interviewing techniques. Since incumbents in this position are undergoing training, a willingness to learn is desirable.

Qualifications

CORE COMPETENCIES

The following list represents the core competencies needed for success in this position.

• Attention to Detail- Focusing on the details of work content, work steps, and final work products.
• Learning Agility- Seeking learning opportunities and applying the lessons to one's work.
• Customer Focus- Attending to the needs and expectations of customers.
• Valuing Diversity- Appreciating the benefits of varied backgrounds and cultures in the workplace.
• Reading Comprehension- Understanding and using written information.
• Using Technology- Working with electronic hardware and software applications.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Ability to read, write and follow written and oral instructions; knowledge of office procedures and ability to deal tactfully and effectively with supervisors, employees and the public.
• Must be at least 18 years of age at the time of appointment.

SELECTION PROCESS

Applicants who submit a complete online application will be invited to take a written examination.

To be placed on the eligible list and further considered for potential placement in a MASH Trainee (Administrative) position, candidates must successfully achieve a passing score on the written examination.

Placement on the eligible list will be based on written examination scores. Applicants may also be required to complete a brief soft-skills assessment during the selection process.

The candidate assessment provides insight into core interpersonal skills, behavioral traits, and preferred work environment, helping us support your success in the role.

Candidates who are City of Pasadena residents and achieve a passing score will receive additional points added to their final score for placement on the eligible list.

Proof of residency (valid, unexpired California driver’s license or ID card, or a utility bill) must be submitted with the application and will be verified at the time of the written examination.

Vacancies for MASH Trainee (Administrative) positions may be filled from the established eligible list.

VACANCY INFORMATION

The MASH Trainee Program hires on an as-needed basis and typically fills 20–30 trainee positions per calendar year.

Vacancies that arise over the next (2) two years may be filled from the established eligible list.

Candidates will be referred for placement consideration based on their rank on the eligible list and may or may not be referred during the two-year life of the list.

This is a temporary, at-will MASH Trainee position with the City of Pasadena that does not create any obligation for regular or ongoing employment; employment may be terminated at any time, with or without cause, at the City’s discretion, and the appointment is limited to a maximum of one (1) year, with the possibility of extension up to two (2) years if placed in cross-training opportunities.

Additional Information

Depending on assignment, some MASH Trainee (Administrative) roles may require a valid California Class C driver’s license and ability to comply with the City’s Motor Vehicle Safety Policy during course of employment.

Candidates will undergo a comprehensive background process prior to time of appointment including a livescan and at time of appointment, and a driving record may be requested at the time of appointment.