FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Where is the Human Resources office located? [Top]
The Human Resources office is located at 330 Fair Lane, Placerville, CA 95667 across the street from the El Dorado County Main Library.
What are your office hours? [Top]
The Human Resources office is open from 8:00AM to 5:00PM, Monday through Friday.
How do I get information about job openings? [Top]
All current job openings are listed on this web site. Click on the button labeled "Employment Opportunities." The first listing shows the vacancies, the final filing date and the salary. If you click on any job title, the job announcement for that job will appear. The announcement will include in depth information about the position, including essential functions, knowledge and skills used in the position, and required education and experience. Listing are also mailed to a large number of community groups. If you would like a job announcement for a particular position, you may download it from the web site or stop by the Human Resources Department.
What kinds of jobs are available with the County of El Dorado? [Top]
The County has over 1800 employees working in over 500 job titles. Employees work in locations all over the County. There are jobs in every major professional group and in all trades. Education and experience requirements for positions vary from "demonstrating sufficient knowledge and skill to perform the duties" to "equivalent to a Master's degree with State licensure."
The job announcement refers to an "eligibility list", what is that? [Top]
After all the tests and examinations are completed, the candidates who passed all the steps are placed on an eligibility list. The candidates are notified of their rank on the list. The top ranks are sent to the department that has the opening for a hiring interview. The eligibility list remains available for use for a period of time (normally six months to a year, but it can be as long as eighteen months), as long as there are at least five viable candidates on the list. As people are hired, they are removed from the list, thus allowing individuals farther down on the list to be sent for department interviews.
If you want to be employed by the County of El Dorado it is to your advantage to be on as many eligibility lists as possible. This will maximize your opportunities.
May I fill out one application and leave the "Job For Which Applying" section blank and have you put me in all the jobs I qualify for? [Top]
While there is no limit to the number of positions for which you can apply, you must identify the job title for which you are applying on each application. Applications stay with the individual recruitment file; therefore, a separate job application is required for each position. El Dorado County does accept photocopies applications; however, original signatures and current dates are required. Please note that our application requests ALL experience in the last ten years, PLUS all experience relevant to the position for which you are applying, no matter how long ago. You may also include relevant volunteer experience. You may attach as many additional pages as necessary to list all requested experience.
If you intend to apply for multiple positions with the County, we recommend that you complete all personal information sections, all prior employment information (dates and contacts) and leave the job title, signature and signature date spaces black. Then make several copies of the application. When you find a job that interests you, take a copy, complete the job title, and itemize the duties in your past jobs that most directly relate to the position for which you are applying before you sign and date the form. That will save you time, yet provide us with the most relevant information and original signature/date.
I filled out an application for a position with the County a couple of months ago. Can I get a copy of that one from you and change the job title for the new recruitment? [Top]
The Human Resources Department does not provide copies of previously submitted applications or attached materials. We recommend that you keep a copy of the material you submit for future reference. Applications are not available for copying.
My resume includes all the information you should need. Can I just submit my resume and a cover letter to apply for a job? [Top]
You must submit a completed County of El Dorado Employment Application for each position you desire. You must also complete and submit any additional information listed on the job announcement. This may include a Supplemental Questionnaire, samples of your work, or copies of licenses/degrees/transcripts. You may attach a resume and cover letter; however the information on the resume cannot substitute for the completed application.
Will I have to submit my college transcripts or copies of my degrees/licenses? [Top]
Each job announcement lists the requirement qualifications. Read the requirements carefully to see how they match up to your education and/or experience. If the requirements list a specific type of college coursework, you must show that you have completed that work. You must attach copies of transcripts, or of your degree - if it shows a specific field of study. If the requirements allow substitution of experience for education, please be sure to clearly show the required amount of experience to meet both the educational substitute AND the stated experience requirement. If the position requires specific licensure or certification, you must attach copies of your license/certificate.
Applicants will not be certified to the hiring department unless required documentation is received by the Human Resources Department.
I saw a job announcement and think I'm qualified, but I'm not sure. What should I do? [Top]
Each job announcement lists the requirement qualifications. Read the requirements carefully to see how they match up to your education and/or experience. The position may require college course work, a specific amount of experience, a license or certificate or a set of knowledge and abilities in a specific area. Based on your knowledge and experience, you should be able to determine whether you meet the requirements of the position. If in doubt, submit your application and the Human Resources Dept. will determine whether or not you meet the requirements.
How does the Human Resources Dept. determine if I qualify for the position? [Top]
The Human Resources Dept. will review your application using the criteria set forth on the job opportunity announcement. It is very important to include all requested information. Please list all paid work experience, licenses, professional affiliations, classes you have taken, training you have received, applicable volunteer work and any other special qualifications you possess which relate to the position for which you are applying. The Human Resources Dept. will review all of the information you provide; however, your minimum qualifications must be clearly stated on the application form. Failure to include requested information (including writing "see resume" on the application in the area of experience) will result in rejection of your application. Without accurate and complete information, we will not be able to determine whether or not you meet the minimum qualifications for the job.
I've been waiting for the County to recruit for the position I want, and it never seems to be posted, while other jobs seem to be posted over and over. What determines how often a recruitment is held? [Top]
Recruitment schedules are based on a number of things including:
- availability of a current eligibility list;
- number of individuals on the list who are still interested in the position;
- number of anticipated openings;
- total number of positions with the same title as the position for which you are applying.
For some jobs with limited turnover and a small number of positions, recruitment every two years or as needed may be sufficient. For others, recruitment every six months or more may be necessary.
What do I do with my Application? [Top]
Applications for any permanent full or part-time position only accepted for positions that are open for recruitment. Extra-help applications are accepted at any time. When you have a completed application (and any other required documents), you must return it to the Human Resources Department. Completed application materials must be returned to the Human Resources Dept. no later than 5 p.m. on the final filing date (postmarks are not accepted). The final filing date is listed on all job announcements.
If you come in to look at the job postings in Human Resources you will notice that some recruitments are "County Promotional" which means that only permanent County of El Dorado employees may apply for the position. Others are "Department Promotional" which means that only permanent employees of the Department with the opening may apply for the position. The "promotional" recruitments will not be included on the job line or web site, but they are posted in Human Resources.
You should keep a copy of the application materials you submitted and job opportunity announcement to assist you in preparing for any test and/or interview process that may be required.
You may download an official County of El Dorado Employment Application by using the Application link on the bottom of each web site page.
If I want to apply for more than one position do I have to file more than one application? [Top]
You must submit a separate job application for each position. There is no limit to the number of positions for which you can apply. Once application materials are received, they become the property of the County of El Dorado and are not returned. You should keep a copy of any application you have submitted. Remember, an original signature is required on each application.
Many times, El Dorado County will recruit for a position that has openings in both the Placerville area, and in South Lake Tahoe. Due to the distance and terrain separating the two areas, separate recruitments are normally conducted and separate applications are required. Separate eligibility lists are established by geographic area.
How often can I apply for the same position? [Top]
You may reapply as often as the job opportunity is announced.
How do I find out about the job duties, requirements, and type(s) of examination? [Top]
For jobs that are open for recruitment, a copy of the job announcement may be obtained by printing it from the web site, or by calling/visiting the Human Resources Dept., 330 Fair Lane, Placerville. The announcement lists the salary, job duties, requirements you must fulfill to qualify for examination, the type of examination(s) which may be given, and very importantly, the date by which applications must be submitted.
What kind of examinations will I have to take? [Top]
Depending on the knowledge, skills, and abilities the position requires, an examination may consist of one or more of the following:
- evaluation of training and experience on the application and on a Supplemental Questionnaire (if required)
- written examinations
- oral board examinations (before a multiple person interview panel)
- performance examinations
- assessment centers
- physical agility tests (for some safety positions)
The County makes every attempt to include information about written tests in the job announcement. However, we may determine that a test will be required after we have already posted the announcement. Notification of each examination will be by mail. It is the responsibility of each applicant to ensure that the County of El Dorado is notified of any address changes.
How do I prepare for the test? What do I study? [Top]
All tests are job-related and test the knowledge, skills and abilities required on the job. To prepare, read the job description on the job announcement, then study the material you feel would directly or indirectly relate to the necessary knowledge, skills, or abilities. For example, if two of the requirements for a position are performing mathematical calculations and interpreting regulations, some of the exam questions will probably cover math and reading comprehension.
What happens after I take the examination? [Top]
You will be notified by mail of the examination results. If you pass all phases of the recruitment process you will be placed on an eligibility list in order of your final score. The top ranks on the eligibility list will be certified to the department.
The department will review application materials of the top candidates and will set up selection interviews. The department can hire any eligible candidate referred to them. Departments also have the option of asking for the entire eligibility list if they desire. Departments are required to offer an interview to all candidates appearing on the certification list sent to the department.
There are examination appeal procedures outlined in the Civil Service Rules and Personnel Rules for the County of El Dorado. If you have any questions about the possible appeal procedures available at any step of the examination process, please contact Human Resources.
How long is the eligibility list in effect? [Top]
The life span of the list normally varies from six months to eighteen months, depending on the position. Lists may be cancelled earlier than six months if there are less than five candidates remaining. Lists may be extended from the initial expiration date of six months at the request of any department who may be utilizing the list.
If you have a change of address, phone number, or name, please call the Human Resources Dept. at 530-621-5565 so we can update the eligibility list to enable us to reach you when there is an opening.
Do I get extra points if I am a veteran? [Top]
Yes. The County of El Dorado gives veterans preference points in open recruitments. You must provide a copy of your DD214 and a copy of your disability award letter showing additional points for disabilities if applicable. It is best to attach a copy of the appropriate paperwork to your application. This paperwork must be received no later than the oral board examination date in order to receive preference points.
What should I do if I am in the top five ranks and am called for a departmental selection interview? [Top]
Be sure that you know the time and place you should appear for the interview, to whom you should report for the interview, how long the interview is scheduled to last, and the job for which you are being considered.
Eligibility lists may be used by more than one department; therefore, the Human Resources Dept. may not know who contacted you. It is important to get all necessary information when you are contacted for interview.
Before the interview review your application material. These materials may include your application or resume as well as the job announcement. Be prepared to discuss how your training and/or work experience relate to the position for which you are interviewing.
During the interview, listen carefully to the questions. Your answer should cover everything you feel your interviewer needs to know to evaluate you fairly.
What happens if I am selected? [Top]
Conditional job offers are made "pending" a physical examination/questionnaire, background check and possible urine drug screening. If you are working when you receive a conditional job offer from the County of El Dorado, DO NOT quit your job until you have been instructed to do so.
The County of El Dorado complies with the Immigration Control and Reform Act of 1986. If offered a position, you will be required to present identification and/or work authorization paperwork. Only documents identified in law or regulation are acceptable.
After you have been offered and have accepted a position, be sure that you understand when you will begin, where and to whom you will report on the first day, and whether there are any other steps the hiring department would like you to take before starting work. Be sure to get the telephone number of the person who contacts you for hire in case you have further questions.
When you are selected your name will be removed from the eligibility list for that position. Your name will remain on any other eligibility list you may be on for the specified life of the list. If you would like to be removed from the other eligibility lists, please notify Human Resources.
What if I am not selected or interviewed? [Top]
Our objective is to hire the best person for the job, so competition is keen. If you are not immediately successful in getting a position, your name will remain on the eligibility list for consideration. You may be considered for other vacancies that occur during the life of the list. If you do not receive a job offer during the life of the list you must wait for another recruitment and reapply. It is a good idea to keep your final rank notice(s). This way you will know what eligibility lists you are on.
If you are unable to attend an interview, contact the interviewing department. You may decline to interview with a particular department for a position and still remain on the eligibility list for that classification.
All individuals are encouraged to apply for employment with the County of El Dorado. The County is an equal opportunity/ reasonable accommodation employer. This means that we do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, sex, age, handicap or national origin. The County is also an equal opportunity employer. Women, minorities and the disabled are encouraged to apply. Please contact the Human Resources Dept. at least five working days before a scheduled interview/examination if you require accommodation in the test process.
I had my oral board interview and got a letter telling me I am in Rank # ___? What does that mean? [Top]
Candidates are assigned a rank on the eligibility list based on their performance in the examination phase of the recruitment process. The top candidates are forwarded to the department for final interview. In most cases the top five ranks are certified, with additional ranks being certified based on the number of vacancies in the department. The department can hire any eligible candidate referred to them. Departments also have the option of asking for the entire eligibility list if they so desire.
I had my oral board interview and got a letter telling me I am in one of the top ranks. When will the Department contact me for an interview? [Top]
Once the eligibility list is certified to the department for final interview/selection, the Human Resources Department is unaware of the scheduling. While most departments contact candidates within a matter of days, there are occasionally circumstances where it may be weeks between certification and department interviews. You will be contacted for an interview when the department sets the schedule. Of course, if you have moved since the beginning of the recruitment process, or you have had a change of phone number, you should notify Human Resources immediately when the change takes place. Otherwise, notifications to you may be lost.
I went through the recruitment process and had my interview with the department. Can you tell me if the position is still available/if they filled the position/when they will notify me? [Top]
Once the eligibility list is certified to the department for final interview/selection, the Human Resources Department is unaware of the scheduling of interviews, the selection, or the notification of remaining candidates until we receive the certification list back from the department with the application material from the candidates who were not chosen. The notices to candidates advising that the position has been filled will come to you directly from the department involved, not from Human Resources.
One final thing . . . . . . . . . . . . . [Top]
Try not to be discouraged by the length of time taken in the recruitment, or if you do not get hired the first time around. Sometimes it may be a month or longer between steps in a process (application - to - test notice or test - to - final notice). We know this seems like a long time; however, we want sufficient time to evaluate everyone fairly and find the best person for the job. The time and effort are worth it. If you are not chosen in your first attempt, try again. Candidate pools are different for each recruitment and as you become more familiar with the process, you will be more at ease with successive efforts. Don't give up!