Are exams given for all positions?

As a merit system, most of our recruitments will include a competitive examination process. The Washoe County Personnel Handbook section 5.160 outlines instances which allow the Department of Human Resources to waive the examination process.

The job announcement will outline the examination process for the recruitment and this information will include a tentative exam date for an in-person exam OR a tentative timeframe to receive an exam link for remote testing. In addition, the areas assessed through the exam will also be listed on the job announcement. The most commonly used exam is either a written or online multiple-choice exam; however, other examination processes such as a performance test may be used.

Some positions are unclassified and outside of the merit system. Individuals selected for those positions serve at the pleasure of the hiring authority. A variety of selection instruments may be used in evaluating candidates for these types of positions.