Volunteer - Civil Grand Juror

Salary: $0.00 DailyLocation : Santa Cruz County Civil Grand Jury, CAJob Type: Extern/VolunteerJob Number: 2026Department: Civil Grand JuryDivision: JurorOpening Date: 01/22/2026Closing Date: 4/28/2026 11:59 PM PacificPosition OverviewServing on the Santa Cruz County Civil Grand Jury is a unique opportunity to make a meaningful impact in your community. As a Civil Grand Juror, you'll join a team of engaged, curious residents who work together to review how local government is serving the public. Jurors take a deep look at the operations of city and county departments, special districts, and public agencies - all with the goal of improving transparency, accountability, and the quality of services residents rely on.This volunteer role is ideal for people who enjoy learning, asking thoughtful questions, collaborating with others, and contributing to positive change. You don't need prior experience in government or investigations - just an open mind, a commitment to fairness, and a desire to help make Santa Cruz County the best it can be.What You'll DoAs a Civil Grand Juror, you'll join a diverse team of volunteers who work together to:Take a closer look at local government. Explore how city and county departments, special districts, and agencies operate, and identify opportunities to improve services for residents.Launch independent inquiries. Investigate issues that matter to the public and help shine a light on areas where change can make a real impact.Publish meaningful reports. Share findings and recommendations that encourage transparency, accountability, and better government practices.Collaborate as a team. Work closely with fellow jurors in a confidential, supportive environment where every voice matters.This is a chance to learn, contribute, and help shape the future of Santa Cruz County.Time Commitment & ReimbursementThe Civil Grand Jury term runs July 1 through June 30 each year.Expect to volunteer 15-20 hours per weekReceive a $15 per-day per diem for meeting days (up to $30/week)Get reimbursed for mileage to and from the Grand Jury office and for official businessTraining & SupportNo prior experience is needed - just curiosity, commitment, and a desire to serve.You'll receive:Two days of training from the California Grand Jurors' Association (CGJA)Ongoing guidance from the Presiding Judge, District Attorney, County Counsel, and State Attorney GeneralYou'll never be on your own - a full support network is here to help you succeed.Why Serve?Civil Grand Jurors play a vital role in strengthening local democracy. Your work can:Improve government servicesIncrease transparencyHelp ensure taxpayer dollars are used wiselyGive residents a stronger voiceIt's meaningful, impactful, and deeply rewarding.Eligibility RequirementsTo serve, you must:Be a U.S. citizenBe at least 18 years oldHave lived in Santa Cruz County for at least one yearPossess sound judgment, good character, and the ability to work well with othersBe fluent in spoken and written EnglishNot currently serve as a trial jurorNot have served on a grand jury in California within the past yearNot have been convicted of a felony or malfeasance in officeNot be an elected public officialReady to Apply or Learn More?Visit: Civil Grand Jury Superior Court of California County of Santa CruzQuestions or need help with the application? Email:This is a volunteer position and has no benefits associated with it.01Are you able to devote 20+ hours per week to the Grand Jury?YesNo02Are you active in any community organizations? If yes be sure to include this information in your work history?YesNo03Have you previously served as a grand jurorYesNo04If you have been a previous Grand Juror of Santa Cruz County, please list the year.05Do you meet the requirements to be a civil grand juror? (see the requirements listed in the job description)YesNo06Would you be interested in serving as the Foreperson on the Civil Grand Juror? If yes, please include any relevant information in your application.YesNo07Are you able and willing to evaluate issues and topics without expressing personal bias?YesNo08Are you comfortable using a computer and open to learning new computer skills? Please note that support and training are available for jurors who may need assistance.YesNo09Pleas select your age range18-2526-3435-4445-5455-6465-7475+10Do you declare under penalty of perjury under the laws of the State of California that the information that you have provided is true and correct to the best of your knowledge?YesNo