California Code, Public Utilities Code - PUC § 12102.1

When no list of eligibles is available for a position in the class requisitioned by the department or division head, the general manager of a district which has owned and operated an electric distribution system for at least eight years and has a population of 250,000 or more may make a noncivil service appointment thereto for a period of not exceeding 12 months and only until a regular appointment can be made.