Job Application Process

job Application process

general questions

FINDING A POSITION

When will applications be accepted for the position/job that I’m interested in?

Every Civil Service position has an eligible list from which qualified candidates are employed. If there are no applicants remaining on the eligible list, the Selection Division announces an examination for the position, and applications are then accepted during a designated period.

How will I know when I can apply for a particular position?

Job bulletins for civil service examinations are updated on a weekly basis on the Personnel Department website. If the position you are looking for is not open for applications, you may review job information from the last job bulletin or request an email notification for upcoming examinations by selecting the job classification of your choice that is available in governmentjobs.com and clicking the "Subscribe" button to complete your email notification request.

LOCATION OF JOBS

Are all jobs located in the Los Angeles Civic Center?

No. City jobs may be located throughout the metropolitan area. Most jobs (2/3) are downtown in the Civic Center; however, we also have locations at the Los Angeles Harbor, Los Angeles World Airport, El Segundo, San Fernando Valley, Ontario, and Owens Valley, among others. Work and reporting locations will be based on the operational needs of the hiring departments. Some jobs may require field work or travel, and others may include a telecommuting option.

Must I be a resident of the City of Los Angeles to work for the City?

No, there is no residency requirement.

Are the working hours always 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.?

No. Some departments offer swing, graveyard and/or rotating shifts for some classifications. Also, many departments have flexible work schedules such as the 9/80 or 4/10 schedules

Does the City offer any part-time positions?

Yes. There are departments that use some classifications on a part-time basis. If you are interested in a part-time position, indicate your part-time preference when answering the relevant question within the on-line application.

language

I speak a second language. Can I be paid for it?

Sometimes. Some departments have “bilingual positions,” in which they have demonstrated a need for an employee to communicate in a language other than English. People in these positions receive “bilingual pay” for speaking and/or writing the second language. You would be tested to prove your proficiency in that language. You may inquire with the hiring department regarding bilingual bonus benefits. If the job bulletin indicates that some positions require bilingual skills, you may be selectively certified ahead of other candidates for hiring consideration.

MEETING THE REQUIREMENTS TO TAKE AN EXAMINATION

Experience

Why can't I just take the test to prove that I am qualified?

Each class includes positions that require a minimum level of experience, education, ability, or skill to carry out the duties and responsibilities that are unique to the job. In order for you to take an examination for a class, you must first meet these minimum qualifications (requirements) that have been developed specifically for the class. For those who have met the minimum qualifications, the examinations are used to test the capabilities of the candidates and then rank successful candidates on an eligible list.

After I become a City employee, may I use outside employment to qualify for promotional exams?

Yes, unless the bulletin requirements specifically state the experience must be with the City of Los Angeles.

denied application

I received an email stating that I do not qualify. What can I do?

Some applicants are notified that their applications were not accepted. This usually occurs because the minimum qualifications (requirements) were not met. If the position is still open for filing, consider filing a new application complete with relevant education and work experience while correctly answering the supplemental questions. Current City employees may follow the instructions within the disqualification letter to submit an appeal. Non-City employees do not have appeal rights.

I’m a City employee and received an email stating that I was disqualified. How do I file an appeal?

If you are a City employee who was notified that you do not meet the minimum qualifications for the exam and disagree with the determination, you may provide clarifying information to explain the information in your original application, or provide a description of your background that will assist us in reviewing your application. You must do this within the time limits indicated in the letter.

I’m a City employee and missed the application deadline. What can I do?

If you are a City employee and your reason for applying late was due to circumstances beyond your control and not due to personal negligence, you may request late acceptance of your application. You must provide any documents or proof that substantiates your reason with your request. Any requests must be made as soon as possible and those submitted after the first test part is given will not be accepted.

background

What if I have a police record, can I still apply for jobs with the City of Los Angeles?

Yes. However, your police record will be considered with respect to the duties and responsibilities of the position you applied for, your age at the time of the conviction, the severity of the crime, and your employment history in the interim. You may or may not be disqualified.

language

Do I have to speak English to apply?

No, you do not have to speak English to apply. However, at this time, examinations are given in English.

completing an application

Can I apply on-line?

Applications for Civil Service examinations are only accepted on-line at governmentjobs.com/careers/lacity. Applications filed through other on-line applications, such as LinkedIn and Handshake, will not be accepted. For all other job types (Exempt, Emergency Appointment, Executive, and Internships), follow the instructions on the job announcement on how to apply.

Can I apply for different City exams with one application?

No. The City's application process calls for an original employment application to be provided for each examination.

Can I submit my resume instead of completing all sections of the City application for Civil Service exams?

No. All Civil Service exams require that you submit a complete on-line application for each exam you are interested in. While the on-line application allows for resumes to be uploaded as part of the application package, they will not be considered during the application review process. Without providing relevant information in all application sections, such as education and work experience, your application may be denied. You should include a resume or other supplemental materials (copies of licenses, certificates, etc.) when specifically required by the job bulletin.

How do I apply for an exempt job?

Most exempt opportunities require you to apply directly with the hiring department. Follow the specific instructions on the job announcement for the exempt position that interests you, ensuring that all deadlines are met.

I think I am going to be on vacation during the period you will be accepting applications. What do I do?

Submitting an application by the deadline is your responsibility. Applications for civil service exams are accepted on-line, allowing you to submit your application while on vacation - so long as you have access to the internet! Prepare ahead of time by updating your governmentjobs.com personal profile to make the application process as quick as possible.

Can I get a copy of my application to use for my interview?

No. Once a job application is filed, the Personnel Department cannot provide a copy of your application. You may retrieve a copy of your application by accessing your governmentjobs.com account.

How many applications can I turn in?

Provided that the exam is open for filing, there is no limit to the number of exams you may apply for, but only one application is needed for each. Applications are only accepted on-line and paper applications are no longer accepted. You must meet the minimum qualifications (requirements) of each job bulletin to apply and we strongly encourage applicants to read the job bulletin in its entirety for important information.

FAQs