Frequently Asked Questions

The application and hiring process for The City of Spokane can get complicated and we understand that can raise numerous questions and uncertainties. We've compiled a comprehensive list of answers to address your inquiries. This resource aims to provide clarity and insight for our application and hiring procedures so that you feel confident during the process. Still have questions? Feel free to reach out to us via phone or email.

Applying for a job

How do I apply for a City of Spokane job?

Visit this page on our website. Choose the type of employment you are looking for: full-time, part-time, project or supported. Scroll through the open recruitments. Select "learn more & apply" to view more details about each job. When you are ready to apply, select the apply button. You will need to create an account with governmentjobs.com. Once you do that, you can fill out your application.

Pro tip – the governmentjobs.com application site times out after 30 mins. We recommend that you have your resume and supplemental questions already answered in a separate document before you start your application. Then copy and paste the info into the application.

What if I don't have a computer or internet access?

We only accept online job applications, but there are ways you can still apply.

  • Use a public computer at a Spokane Public Library branch.
  • Ask a family member or friend who has internet access if you can use their computer.
  • Contact Civil Service to schedule time to use one of our test computers to apply
How soon will I get an interview after I apply?

Applying and taking a test for a position does not guarantee that the position is vacant at that time. We create candidate lists that are active for two years. Multiple departments may use this list when they have an opening until the list is exhausted. If you pass the test, you will receive your rank on the exam. If there is not an active vacancy, you may be contacted for an interview within a two-year period.

Is there a way for me to see the status of my application?

Yes, you can do this by logging into your governmentjobs.com account.

I don't see details on the job listing about the department I'll be working for. Where do I find that?

Rather than recruiting for specific positions, we recruit for general job classifications. This enables us to get a large pool of candidates and hire more quickly once a specific position opens up with a department. For example, if you apply to be a Laborer and make it on the eligible list, you could get a call from any department that has laborers.

Do I need an email address to complete an online application? How do I get an email address?

Yes, you must have an email address to complete an online application. You can get a free email account online at places like Gmail, Hotmail, or Yahoo! Mail. Please note, we do not endorse any particular email provider.

Do I need to set up a governmentjobs.com account to apply for a job?

Yes, you must have an account to submit an application and track your job application status.

Why does the system automatically log me out after 30 minutes?

The system will automatically log you out if you do not press a key or click your mouse for 30 mins. This is a precautionary measure to protect your identity and personal information. The system will warn you before it logs you out, but you should save your information frequently to avoid losing your entries.

Can I copy and paste information from my resume?

Yes. There is an option to import your resume by either transferring information from LinkedIn or uploading your resume from your computer when you first set up your account. You can also copy and paste information from an existing document but be sure to use plain text so it can be easily read.

Can I apply by submitting a resume instead of completing an online application?

No, Civil Service will not accept a resume instead of an online application or as a substitute for completing any part of the job application. This is to ensure that the hiring process stays unbiased and based purely on merit. If you choose to attach your resume, it will not be considered part of your application. Information included in your resume will not be used to determine your eligibility. Hiring managers may or may not look at your resume at the time of hire.

Do I need to attach a resume?

No, you are not required to attach a resume. However, if you do attach one, it will not be considered part of your application. Information included in your resume will not be used to determine your eligibility. Hiring managers may or may not look at your resume at the time of hire.

Please note, Civil Service will not accept a resume instead of an online application or as a substitute for completing any part of the job application. This is to ensure that the hiring process stays unbiased and based purely on merit.

What happens after I submit my application?

A Civil Service Analyst will screen your application to see if you meet the minimum qualifications. If you do, we will email you information for taking the skills test.

How do I access my online account after I create it?

Access your online account by selecting the "Applicant sign in" link on our Career Center page or by going to the Governmentjobs website

Who do I contact for help?

If you have any questions, please contact the Civil Service Office at 509.625.6160 or civilservice@spokanecity.org. The office is open Monday – Friday from 8:00am – 4:00pm.

If you experience technical difficulties with any part of the application process, please call the applicant support line at 1.855.524.5627. This line is open from 6:00am – 5:00pm PST, Monday through Friday.

How often are jobs posted on the website?

We update the website with new job opportunities every Monday.

Do I have to visit the City's website to check for new job listings?

No, you can sign up for job notifications to receive email notifications about new opportunities in specific job categories. We also post new opportunities weekly on our Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn pages.

How do I get job notifications?

You can sign up for job notifications to receive email notifications about new opportunities in specific job categories. We also post new opportunities weekly on our Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn pages.

Can I apply for more than one job?

Yes, you can apply for any position of interest to you. We encourage you to look at the list of qualifications before making your decision to apply.

What does "continuous" mean for a closing date?

There are some jobs which may require a longer posting period than our standard two weeks. These job postings remain open on a continuous basis. Civil Service will evaluate applications as they are submitted, merging the results into one eligible list for referral to hiring managers. These job postings close once a sufficient eligible list has been established.

What if I'm not ready to submit my application at this time?

You may come back to your application to submit it at a later time. Make sure to "save work in progress" before you exit. You will still need to log back into your account and submit your application before the posted closing date listed on the job description.

How do I make changes to my application once it has been submitted? Can I make changes after the job closes?

Once an application has been submitted it is essentially "locked." However, you can update your information and reapply to the position as long as the job posting is still open. Once the position is closed, no further changes can be made. If you do resubmit your application with changes, please reach out to Civil Service at 509.625.6160 or civilservice@spokanecity.org so that we can make sure to push the correct application through the process.

How do I notify you of changes to my contact information?

You can update your contact info on your profile in governmentjobs.com at any time. Any changes made will be updated with the agency automatically.

Can I submit a hard-copy paper application instead of applying online?

Unfortunately, we do not accept paper applications.

Can I use my existing governmentjobs.com account to apply for a City of Spokane job?

Yes, it is best to use the same account to apply for all your positions, this way you can view them all in one place.

How do I know if I'm eligible for Veterans' Preference?

Please view the Veterans' Preference Scoring Criteria (PDF 654 KB).

Testing

Why do I have to take a test to get the position?

Competitive testing is used to make sure applicants are qualified based on their ability to do the job and their job qualifications. By testing, we are able to make the positions open to all qualified individuals, regardless of their connections or political affiliations. Testing ensures positions are earned on the basis of individual merit.

What does my rank on the eligibile list mean?

If you pass the civil service test for your position, you will be given a score. That score will be used to give you a rank on the list of people eligible for hire. When a position opens up, a short list of applicants will be sent to hiring managers who then have to interview applicants in order.

How can I study/prepare for the test?

You can view the topics that will be covered in the tests on the job description. The tests are designed to evaluate what you already know and if that fits the open position. We do not provide study guides.