The term "examination" refers to the selection method used to rank all candidates for a particular classification. Applicants applying for employment with the Washoe County Merit System are required to go through an "examination" process. Depending upon the position for which you are applying, examinations may consist of written, oral, performance, physical agility tests, involve a rating of past experience and training, or be comprised of a combination of such tests.
The Department of Human Resources administers examinations to determine which applicants are the most qualified for a particular position. There is no single test; examinations are developed to suit duties and responsibilities of each job classification. The Department of Human Resources uses written and oral examinations, tests of physical ability, and demonstrations of practical skills as testing instruments. For some positions, the entire examination consists of a rating of education and experience as you describe them in your application.
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.
The tentative examination content is described in Required Additional Information. Some jobs require a written test that may consist of short answer, multiple choice, true-false, or essay type questions that are directly related to the job. For example, do not be concerned about taking a spelling test if you are applying for a maintenance job; you will most likely be asked questions about plumbing, carpentry, painting, etc.
Not all of Washoe County`s positions require written tests. Some jobs may require a performance test where applicants must perform tasks similar to those performed on the job. For example, clerical applicants may take a typing test. For certain jobs, such as a Sheriff`s Deputy, a physical ability test is also required.
Another type of test is an oral exam, which reviews your qualifications, experience, education and other knowledge, skills and abilities required for the job. This type of test is still structured and scored by a panel, but it does give you the opportunity to express yourself, and to discuss what unique qualifications you bring to the position. It also gives you the opportunity to ask questions about the job.
The examination process may consist of one or any combination of these types of tests. You must successfully pass each portion of the examination in order to be considered. The passing score is determined by a statistical evaluation of the test scores. Applicants are notified of their test results by email. The Human Resources Department is always available to discuss any problems or questions you may have regarding the examination you have taken.
Applicants who meet the qualifications are generally scheduled to take the test at the same time. However, a large number of applicants may require more than one testing session. In such cases there is no possibility of rescheduling. However, if the recruitment is open continuously, applicants may scheduled in groups in the order of the date their applications are received.
If you have a disability which requires special testing accommodations, please contact the Department of Human Resources. Special testing accommodations will be provided in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act.
Review the Required Additional Information which provides an approximate test date. After you have submitted your application and the Recruiting Analyst has determined that the minimum qualifications have been met, a letter will be emailed to you approximately one week before the examination notifying you of your test date, time and location.
You will be provided the location by email.
Test scores will be emailed to you within a few weeks of taking the examination. Test scores are not given out over the telephone or in person.
Washoe County has a 60- day test retake policy. This means that you may re-take an exam after 60 days, if that particular exam is being offered again. You can only test for a position when it is open for recruitment. We keep your most recent score, whether higher or lower. In some cases you are not required to retest, however, if this position is open again after 60 days, you are scheduled to take the same test, you will be notified and you may make the decision whether or not to retest.
Examination FAQs