City Retirement System reveals internship program to address staffing shortages

The San Francisco County government meeting held on July 4, 2025, focused on several key issues, primarily addressing staffing challenges and the performance of the retirement system.

The meeting began with acknowledgments of the hard work and dedication of the staff, particularly in light of recent vacancies. Supervisors expressed gratitude for the leadership shown by department heads, emphasizing the critical support provided to tenants in need. The importance of housing resources was highlighted, with officials noting the long-awaited housing inventory that is expected to be launched soon.

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to discussing the retirement system, which manages a trust valued at approximately $35 billion. Officials reported that the system is currently able to meet all liabilities for both active and retired employees, a positive outcome attributed to effective management and favorable market conditions. However, they noted a decline in active membership, which has dropped from 34,521 to 33,644 members, reflecting broader trends in city employment during the pandemic.

The department also reported a 16% vacancy rate, with a notable number of vacancies in retirement analyst positions. To address recruitment challenges, the department has initiated an internship program aimed at training new candidates for future positions. This program has attracted significant interest, with over 200 applicants, and aims to provide a pathway for interns to secure permanent roles upon successful completion.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the ongoing challenges faced by the county in staffing and resource management while also highlighting proactive measures being taken to ensure the sustainability of essential services. The next steps include the continued rollout of the internship program and efforts to enhance salary competitiveness for critical positions within the retirement system.