When a PA State Civil Service Commission position has a closing date, what does that mean?

The closing date for the position I've applied for is May 31. Does that mean they are finished hiring by that date, or that they don't even start interviewing until after that date? I have been getting availability surveys in the mail with no information about an interview filled out in that section of the form. I have been following the instructions on the form and have been checking the box saying "I am available for this job" and sending back two of the copies. I took the civil service exam in Fall 2007 and have gotten notice for about 5 openings thus far. I'm worried though b/c my exam score was middle of the road (grumble) and for both counties I tested for, there are about 10 people with scores higher than me (but many more lower then me). One more question - if closing date DOES mean that they start setting up interviews after May 31, do I have a decent chance even though there are people ranking above me when it comes to scores? Do they look beyond just a standardized test?

When a PA State Civil Service Commission position has a closing date, what does that mean?
It means, that's when you need to have your application in by.


Any application received after that date won't be considered.


It may take several weeks before you hear anything about an interview.


You have as good a chance as anybody. Scores are just one factor among many that determine the best canidates.





KS used to have a Civil Service exam many years ago. But I've never had to take one.
Reply:it means that is the last day to submit an application for the job listed.
Reply:You need to access the state website more thoroughly, specifically search/reviewing the guidelines regarding "closing date". In federal employment, it means all materials must be submitted by, although occassionally an announcement will say "received by". You can see those are 2 very different parameters.





Applying does not guarantee an interview, nor does an announcement guarantee a hire. If there are question/answer requirments, make sure you give very specific, dated answers - such as a particular project you worked on, team experience, technology skills, etc. Submit ALL materials requested. Some announcements will only accept materials through the initial application process (i.e., you might not be able to provide anything at the interview process - do it when you first apply.)





Good luck, sounds like you're on the right track.