by Stacy Dunn
Career Development Services in Charlottetown marked Canada Career Month in November with a series of workshops, one of which offered advice about how to apply for provincial government jobs.
Janet Horne, a Staffing Consultant with the PEI Public Service Commission (PSC), is also the Bilingual Recruitment Coordinator. PSC staffing consultants across the province work with the provincial government on its staffing needs in all departments.
Website: Information all under one roof
www.jobspei.ca has links to job postings for the Provincial Government, Health PEI, and the Public Schools Branch. You will find external opportunities – permanent, temporary and casual jobs that are open to the public.
The job ad
“When the PSC screens applicants for various job postings, we look to see if the applicant has the qualifications listed in the job advertisement,” says Janet. “Therefore, it is very important that the applicant completes the application and lists all of the education and experience that they possess to demonstrate that you meet the minimum qualifications as listed on the job posting, as well as any additional training or experience that would be considered assets. The job ad lists minimum qualifications that are required for the role.”
Applying online
The PSC accepts applications in person at their office in Charlottetown and online. To apply online, the application must:
1. Visit www.jobspei.ca Click My Job Account and then click Register
2. Fill in your information and click Register at the bottom of the page.
3. Enter the required fields on your profile page. Include as much detail as possible to get screened in. There are multiple tabs on the My Application screen. Remember to save each new tab.
4. You can upload multiple versions of your resumé as well as cover letters tailored to each job description you apply for under the My Resume tab.
“Applicants are encouraged to call the PSC to inquire about the status of their application,” Janet says. “The hiring process is ongoing, and you can update your online Job Account at any time. If you require assistance with your online application, please do not hesitate to contact us for assistance.” She also indicated that applicants must make sure they submit their application/resumé on time and include the competition number.
Casual Opportunities
Casual employment opportunities are used to meet staffing needs arising from short term vacancies, leaves, or special projects. Janet says applying for a casual list is a great way to gain entry level employment and gain experience with the provincial government and Health PEI.
“The PSC has a number of casual lists which allows us to tap into a talent pool which includes cooks, correctional officers, heavy duty mechanics, administrative support, clerical support, LPNs, RCWs, youth workers, and service workers, and others,” she says.
Testing
Testing is done for the various administrative and clerical support worker positions. “When calling the PSC to inquire about testing, it’s important to clearly state which test you wish to get more information about,” Janet says. “Some tests include typing speed and accuracy, general knowledge and a production.”
Interview process
Candidates that are deemed to be the most qualified and eligible for a job opportunity are invited for a structured interview. Normally, two or three people – the Staffing Consultant, the Director and a Manager from the hiring department are present on the interview board.
“They will ask about your education, training, volunteer and work experience, as well as questions about your skills and knowledge related to the job. Decision-making, organizational, and interpersonal skills are also areas that are often evaluated.”
It is important to adequately prepare for the interview. To be confident and increase the likelihood of success, applicants should research the specific department and the position. The more you know about the department and the role, the more confident and knowledgeable you will be during the interview.
The Provincial Government offers flexible work hours, income averaging, and work environments that support innovation and new ideas where employees can provide input.
“We foster a culture of lifelong learning and development by providing learning opportunities in a variety of areas along with leadership development training,” Janet says. “We foster career advancement and provide an opportunity for communities of practice, cross department committee work, and more.
“We want potential employees to recognize that the public service is stable and reliable, yet flexible and creative,” she says. “We promote diversity and inclusion in the workplace and employees make valuable contributions and are proud and inspired to shape the future of our Island community.”
To learn more about Government departments, visit www.princedwardisland.ca
For more information on provincial government job opportunities, visit www.jobspei.ca or call the PEI Public Service Commission at 902-368-4080.