Job Applicant Questions
Our Human Resources team is committed to helping support you with a successful application process. Below are some frequently asked questions related to the process.
Where do I begin?
Start by reviewing the available job opportunities to find one that fits your skills and interests. There, you will also begin your application by setting up a profile with a login. Click “Sign In” in the upper right corner of the webpage to get started.
Remember to keep a record of your username and password when you set up an account because you will need it to apply for other positions or to check the status of your application. When you re-enter the system, you will need to input this information exactly as it was originally entered.
How do I find out what jobs are available?
A list of available positions can be viewed on Workday.
Can I apply for more than one job at a time?
Yes. Once you have completed your online application, you can apply for multiple open positions.
Can I submit a resume?
To be considered for a position, you must apply through Workday. You may either attach a file or paste a resume into your application as you work through the application process. Resumes are not accepted by fax, email or through the mail.
What if I do not have a computer or access to the internet?
A kiosk is available at Vancouver City Hall, 415 W. 6th Street, Vancouver, WA 98660, in the Human Resources department. The kiosk is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. There may be a waiting list and time limit if customer demand is high. Check in at the front desk of City Hall to access the kiosk.
Public computers with internet access are also located at all Fort Vancouver Regional Library branches. Evening and weekend hours are available. Be prepared to sign up to use a computer, and there may be a time limit.
Does the City hire temporary workers?
Yes. To get more information about temporary jobs, please contact one of the agencies listed below. Each agency has a contract with the City to provide qualified temporary staff for our various seasonal and temporary needs.
Elyon International
1111 Main Street, #610, Vancouver, WA 98660
360-696-5892
Northwest Staffing
315 W Mill Plain Blvd, Suite 100, Vancouver, WA 98660
360-695-4900
Application Process
Do I have to fill out an application?
Yes. To apply for a position, you must complete an application through Workday. Applications and resumes are not accepted by fax, email or through the mail.
In the portal, required information is denoted with an asterisk (*), but the more information you provide, the easier it will be to effectively showcase your skills, abilities and qualifications. Incomplete applications may be rejected.
How do I request an accommodation for the application process?
Please contact our HR Leaves and Accommodations Team if you wish to request any accommodations to the recruitment and selection process. A request for accommodation may be related to a disability or impairment and is intended to allow you to participate fully in the recruitment process. You may also wish to inquire about accommodations that might be possible once hired in order to perform the essential functions of the job. Accommodation requests should be made as soon as possible.
What information will I be asked to provide?
Be prepared to provide personal information such as name, address, phone number, etc. We also ask about your education, employment history and references. An email address is required to set up your account.
How do I print my application?
After you have submitted your application, you will see a link to click for a printable version of the application you just submitted. Follow the prompts on your screen after clicking to print.
How do I check the status of my application?
Our online portal provides status updates via email, so be sure to keep an eye on your inbox. If you are no longer being considered for a position, a notice will be sent to the email address you used on your application. If you are selected for an interview or are chosen as the final candidate, we will reach out to you, mostly likely by phone.
Can I get help completing my application?
Yes. Our Human Resources team is committed to making the application process as easy and user-friendly as possible. To help applicants, we offer live help during business hours. Give us a call, send us an email or drop by City Hall to get started:
415 W Sixth Street
Vancouver, WA 98669
Monday through Friday
8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
360-487-8417
hrfront1@cityofvancouver.us
Who will see my application?
All information is stored on a secure web server. Only the Human Resources Department and authorized City department users (related to the specific opening) will have access. The City of Vancouver does not share its database with outside entities.
Will I automatically be considered for other positions if I previously submitted an application?
No. To protect your privacy, we ask you to submit a separate application for each position that interests you. Make sure you’re considered by watching our Career Pages for updates.
What if I am not ready to fill out the full application right now?
You don’t have to complete it all at once. Just save your work then log out to return to it later. Your application isn’t submitted until you click on Accept at Step 4 (Confirm and Submit). Be sure to submit by the deadline shown on the job listing.
What if I missed the deadline? Can I still apply?
No. We do not consider or accept applications once the closing date has passed. Please continue to visit our website and apply for new jobs as they become available.
How and when can I update my application?
Changes can be made to your application at any time before you submit it. Once you submit your application, you cannot go back and make changes to the submitted application. If you make changes and submit another application before the position closes, we will only consider your most recent application. When you apply for any new listings, however, you may change your application before submitting it.
Internships
Where can I get information about internship opportunities with the City?
Internship opportunities are listed alongside the City’s other job openings. Visit our Careers Page to access the list.
How are interns recruited and placed with the City?
Students interested in advertised internship opportunities will be required to submit a letter of interest, resume or other materials specified in the internship announcement. In some cases, a background check, criminal records check or other screening procedure(s) may be required before an internship can begin.
Who will be considered for City internships?
For internships, we consider any currently enrolled student whose school allows an internship in the public sector or in a program related to the student’s area of study. Students may earn credit hours through the internship experience or complete a defined goal based on their academic course of study. Your school’s internship guidelines, evaluation forms and other applicable materials will be required.
How much do interns get paid?
Most City internships are unpaid and intended as an educational experience only. On occasion, the City has paid internships in specialized areas.
How long can an intern work for the City?
Internships assignments may last anywhere from one to six months, depending on academic requirements and the needs of the City.
Does the City of Vancouver have intern partnerships with specific colleges and universities?
No. While we don’t have any formal partnerships with our local schools, we encourage you to apply to an intern posting if available and applicable to the degree you’re pursuing.
What City policies and procedures apply to interns or work experience participants?
Interns are not considered employees of the City. Therefore, they have no right to continued or regular employment with the City and cannot apply for internal job openings while serving as an intern. They may instead apply and be considered for external job openings.
Interns can be discharged from their internship assignment at any time for any lawful reason or for no reason, with or without cause. Additionally, interns do not receive performance appraisals from the City.
At the end of each placement, the direct manager or supervisor will provide the college or university and the intern with an evaluation of the assignment and of the intern’s performance. If requested and with a signed release, the City may provide a factual written reference based on the individual’s internship assignment. All signed release forms and written references must be reviewed by Human Resources prior to release.