Government » Departments » Human Resources

Human Resources FAQ

Print
Font Size: + -

  • Where is the Human Resources Department located?

    City of Santa Clara
    Human Resources Department
    1500 Warburton Ave [Map It]
    Santa Clara, CA 95050

    Phone: 408-615-2080
    Fax: 408-985-0667
    Application Fax: 408-247-5627

  • What are the Human Resources Department hours?

    The Human Resources Department is open from 8:00am to 5:00pm Monday through Friday.

  • Where can I find your current Job Openings?

    By visiting the “Job Opportunities” section of this website or by clicking here. You can apply for most job openings from the job announcement posting.

  • How do I apply for a position with the City of Santa Clara?

    • Visiting the “Job Opportunities” section of this website, and filling out an online application. You can reach that by clicking here.
    • Call the Job Hotline: (408) 615-JOBS (615-5627)
    • Visit the Human Resources Department from 8:00am to 5:00pm Monday through Friday at:

    City of Santa Clara
    Human Resources Department
    1500 Warburton Ave [Map It]
    Santa Clara, CA 95050
    Phone: (408) 615-2080
    Fax: (408) 247-JOBS (247-5627)

    • If you are interested in becoming a Super Community volunteer click here.

  • How often are jobs posted?

    Job postings are updated during the year as positions become available.

  • If a position is not open, can I still submit an application?

    No, but you can submit a Job Interest Card to be notified by email when a position matching your interests is posted.

  • Can I turn in one application for more than one current opening?

    No. Each position requires a separate application.

  • Do you keep applications on file so that I do not have to turn in a new application to apply for another position?

    No. You must submit a new application for each recruitment.

  • What is the timeframe for receiving information about the status of my application?

    The Human Resources Department tries to notify every applicant of their status as soon as possible after the recruitment closes. For regular recruitments with a final filing date (the final date by which applications should be received), notification is normally within 2 weeks after the final filing date or the week before the first exam date. However, this time frame may be longer if there is a large candidate pool or other factors that impact the recruitment time frame. If you have not heard from a recruiter after two weeks, you may call our office at 408-615-2080.

  • I'm considering applying for an opening with the City of Santa Clara. What would be helpful for me to know?

    It would be helpful to understand the City of Santa Clara – the values that drive us, the culture and some of our programs and products. That way, you will be able to determine whether there is a good match between what the City is looking for and what you have to offer. Take time to visit the Santa Clara website, download the MySantaClara app, or call the hiring department to schedule a site visit.

  • Can you tell me about your testing process?

    • Written examination items may be multiple choice and responses are marked with a pencil on Scantron answer sheets, or fill in the blank/short essay/writing samples.
    • Some positions require a performance examination, such as a typing test or a physical agility test.
    • Generally, the oral examination is conducted by a panel of interviewers who ask each candidate the same set of predetermined questions.
    • When Human Resources conducts a recruitment process for a regular position, we establish a list of candidates who are qualified and eligible (based on performance, testing scores, or interviews) for the position. This list is called an “eligible list.” This list is normally effective for one year.
    • The scores from your examinations are calculated to obtain your Final Examination Score. If you receive a passing score, your name will be added to the Eligible List in score order, and you will be notified in writing of your rank and the next steps in the process.
    • As vacancies occur, a specified number of ranked candidates will be certified or referred to the hiring department for a department interview.
    • Eligible Lists generally expire after one year.

  • What happens if I'm on the eligible list but not selected?

    To fill the immediate opening, the department selects from the certified or referred candidates. During the life of the list, if another job opening occurs, the City will consider the next group of certified candidates on the list. You may also be considered for that same job in another department if an opening occurs.

  • The job announcement gives a salary range, but how is my exact starting salary determined?

    All City jobs have a salary range assigned to the position. Most jobs have five salary steps (5% between) and two longevity steps (2½% between). Candidates are usually employed at the first step. Appointment above Step 1 must be approved by City Council.

  • I am a City employee, how do I apply for a Leave of Absence?

    Employees who are interested in applying for a Leave of Absence are encouraged to contact the Human Resources Department.  Information on vacation requests, unpaid leaves, and job protected leaves (FMLA or CFRA) are available from the Human Resources Department or on the City’s intranet under the Employee Corner.  Employees are encouraged to select the Leaves tab to access the appropriate forms.  Submit completed forms to your supervisor and the Human Resources Department.

  • Will an arrest or conviction prevent me from getting hired?

    Arrests are not considered during the selection and evaluation process. Convictions are evaluated on a case-by-case basis depending on the date and nature of the conviction and the job duties to be performed.  Please refer to the Civil Service Rules and Regulations Section 2.12 for additional information.

  • Once I apply online, how do I make a change to my application?

    Once you submit your application through NEOGOV, you cannot make any changes to your application materials. However, if you have additional information to submit, you may contact the Human Resources Department to add materials to your application packet.  Additional materials may be submitted via fax, email or mail.

  • What is the status of my application?

    Applicants who submit their applications on-line through the City’s website may check the status of their application by logging into their GovernmentJobs.com account (NEOGOV).  Applications submitted on-line receive confirmation of the application receipt immediately.  Applicants who submit materials via fax, mail or e-mail will not receive receipt of application.  After the Final Filing Date, applications are reviewed against minimum qualifications, desirable qualifications, and additional application materials are screened.  Applicants should hear from the City within two weeks of the Final Filing Date.  If a test date has been established and included on the Job Opportunity Announcement, applicants who have not received notification the week prior to the test date are encouraged to contact the Human Resources Department. 
View Full Site