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Last Updated: Dec 31st, 2008 |
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We understand that some applicants feel lost in the process of applying
for employment. Therefore, we have developed this brief summary of the
most Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ). Whether you are applying for the
first time, or you have previously filed an application, this
information will be useful to you.
The following information is intended as a guide, and as such may not
answer all of your questions. Please feel free to request
additional information by calling the Personnel Department at (804)
541-2211 or (804) 541-2245.
All open positions within the City are placed on the 24-hour Job
Information Line at (804) 541-2401, which is updated once a week. Make
a point to check the hotline weekly, so that you will not miss an
employment opportunity. Open positions are also posted on
the City's web site and in the Personnel Office.
What is the difference between an "Open Competitive" job vacancy and "Promotional Opportunity Only" job vacancy?
Job vacancies which are listed as "Open Competitive" are open to anyone
who wishes to apply, while "Promotional Opportunity Only" job vacancies
are open only to previous or current City of Hopewell employees who are
in good standing with the City.
Can I apply for a position any time I wish?
The City of Hopewell only accepts applications for vacant positions,
that is, any position which has been announced and for which we are
actively recruiting. General applications are not kept on file.
Can I take a spare application home for future recruitments?
Yes: However, please note that some recruitments include different
types of supplements, which may cause your application to be
incomplete. It is wise to call the Personnel Office and
find out exactly what is required.
How will I know what jobs I am qualified for and when to apply?
Whenever a position becomes available for "open competitive"
recruitment, the City Department with the vacant position will forward
an announcement to the Personnel Department. The announcement contains
a brief job description, statement of minimum training and experience,
and a description of any special qualifications which may be
required (i.e., licenses, certifications, etc). An opening and
closing date is included on every announcement. You must be certain
your application is received in the Personnel Department by 5:00 p.m.
on the closing date, unless otherwise stated on the announcement. This
means you must allow ample time if you are mailing your applications
(postmark alone is insufficient).
If I want to apply for more than one job, do I have to file more than one application?
Yes: You must submit a separate job application for each job. You may
apply for as many jobs as you wish, as long as the positions are
currently being advertised.
How do I file my application?
You may obtain a general application from the Personnel Department, 300
North Main Street; Hopewell, Virginia 23860, or the City's web
site, www.hopewellva.gov; or by calling (804) 541-2211 or
(804)541-2245.
In order for your application to receive the consideration it deserves,
it is very important that you fill out the application completely, even
if you attach a resume. Do not state "see resume" when asked to
describe your responsibilities and experience. Your qualifications will
be evaluated on the basis of the information you provide on the
application itself. Your resume will only be reviewed for clarification
purposes. If you need more space to describe additional work experience
relevant to the position, please use a separate sheet of paper
utilizing the same format.
Frequently, a supplement will be included with the application and will
require you to more fully explain specific experience or
qualifications. An application supplement focuses on the key
responsibilities of the position for which you are applying, and allows
you to elaborate on your previous experience in areas of particular
relevance to the job.
What should I do if my address or phone number changes?
Notify the Personnel Department immediately. We will make the
necessary changes to your records. If we are unable to contact you
because you have moved or changed your phone number, your name may be
withdrawn from further employment consideration.
If I've previously completed an application, will I automatically be considered for other positions?
No: You must submit a separate application for each position. You
may submit a copy of your application if you prefer, but remember that
your application is evaluated on how well your training and experience
match the particular position for which you are applying. A "master"
application may not provide enough information about your
employment history to meet the job criteria for each position.
How does the Personnel Department determine if I qualify for a position?
The Department initiating the recruitment process reviews the
application materials to determine if you meet the minimum
qualifications as stated on the job announcement.
You should include not only paid work experience, but all other
experience which may apply to the job (i.e., volunteer experience,
licenses, professional affiliations, classes you have taken, training
you have received and any other special qualifications). Failure to
include all information requested could result in the rejection of your
application. With accurate and complete information, we will
determine whether you meet the minimum qualifications for the job.
What happens after I file my applications?
After the applications have been screened to determine whether
you meet the minimum qualifications, you will receive written
notification on the status of your application. Applicants meeting the
minimum qualifications will be placed on an Interview List. The
Department seeking to fill the vacancy will contact those applicants
they wish to interview.
What are the steps or stages of the selection process?
The steps of the selection process vary depending upon the position.
For example, an initial screening and interview may be all that
is required. On the other hand, you may be required to pass a written
exam. A performance test may be required for a position requiring
certain skills, such as typing or the operation of heavy equipment. For
other positions, you may be required to participate in an oral board
examination. Decisions about the selection process are made by the
Department seeking to fill the position and the Personnel Department
when the position becomes vacant.
What should I do if I am called for a selection interview?
Be sure that you know:
- time and place you should appear for the interview;
- contact phone number
- name of person who contacted you;
- to whom you should report for the interview;
- how long the interview is scheduled to take; and
- the job for which you are being considered.
How long does the selection process take?
Sometimes, it may be a month or longer between steps in the hiring
process. We know this seems like a long time, but we want to evaluate
everyone fairly in order to find the best person for the job. The time
and effort are worth it; a job may be waiting for you!
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