Examinations
If you receive a notice inviting you to the next step in the exam process, read the notice carefully. The notice will give you important information concerning the exam. If you have a question regarding the notice,
contact the Human Resources Department.
Exams allow you to demonstrate that you possess the knowledge, skills and abilities that are required to perform the job. Some recruitment processes may include a single exam. Others may include multiple exams. If there is more than 1 exam, you must pass the first exam to qualify to take the next exam. Your final score from the exam(s) determines your rank on the eligible list.
Types of Exams
Application Screening
Applications and supplemental questions are competitively screened based on the minimum qualifications of the job. Responses to supplemental questions, and other types of attachments, are required for many jobs. When responding to the supplemental questions, please provide thorough responses to each question and provide examples where possible or appropriate. Any work experience mentioned in your response to the supplemental questions should also be listed in the employment history section of your application.
Written Exam
This type of exam may be multiple choice, true/false, and/or fill-in-the-blank. Written exams typically test technical knowledge required for the job and other job-related characteristics such as reading comprehension and mathematical abilities. Written exams are typically 2 to 3 hours long.
Oral Exam
A panel of job experts serve as oral exam raters to interview and rate each applicant. A standard set of job-related questions are asked of all applicants. Oral exams are designed to fairly and objectively assess each applicant's qualifications.
Performance/Practical Exam
This type of exam is given to allow applicants to demonstrate a skill or ability that is required to perform the job. Performance/practical exams measure such things as writing skills, physical agility, or the ability to use tools and equipment. Examples of practical exams include writing exercises, in-basket exercises, typing tests, driving tests, and physical agility obstacle courses.