Frequently Asked Questions about City of Portsmouth Careers

The City of Portsmouth follows the guidelines set by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) to provide reasonable accommodations for employees with disabilities. These accommodations can include modifications to the physical workplace, flexible work schedules, or assistive technology. Employees are encouraged to discuss their needs with their supervisor or the Human Resources department, who will work together to find a suitable accommodation.

The City of Portsmouth's policy on equal employment opportunities is to provide fair and equal treatment to all employees and applicants without discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, or any other legally protected status. The city is committed to providing a workplace that is free from harassment and promotes diversity and inclusion. This policy applies to all aspects of employment, including recruitment, hiring, training, and promotion.

Yes, there are several opportunities for City of Portsmouth employees to participate in community events and initiatives. The city regularly hosts volunteer events and encourages employees to get involved in various community initiatives such as neighborhood cleanups, charity fundraisers, and youth programs. Additionally, the city has a Community Service leave policy that allows employees to take time off work to volunteer in the community.

Yes, there is a probationary period for new employees within the City of Portsmouth. This period typically lasts for 6 months, during which the employee's performance and suitability for the job are evaluated. At the end of the probationary period, the employee may be offered permanent employment or their employment may be terminated if they have not met the required standards.

The City of Portsmouth promotes work-life balance for its employees through various measures such as flexible work schedules, telecommuting options, and comprehensive wellness programs. They also offer generous paid time off and parental leave policies. Additionally, the city encourages a healthy work environment by providing access to fitness facilities and organizing team-building activities. These initiatives aim to support the well-being and satisfaction of employees in both their personal and professional lives.

The City of Portsmouth promotes a positive work culture by prioritizing employee well-being and engagement. This includes providing competitive salaries and benefits, offering professional development opportunities, and fostering a supportive and inclusive work environment. The city also encourages open communication and collaboration among staff, recognizes and rewards outstanding performance, and values diversity and innovation. This creates a positive and productive work culture that benefits both employees and the community.

Yes, the City of Portsmouth offers various discounts and perks to its employees. Some of these include discounted gym memberships, discounted public transportation passes, and discounts on city-run facilities, such as golf courses or swimming pools. Employees may also have access to discounted tickets for local events and attractions. Additionally, the city offers a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance and retirement plans, to eligible employees.

Yes, the City of Portsmouth has several employee recognition programs in place. These include the Employee of the Month program, which recognizes outstanding performance and dedication, as well as the Years of Service Awards, which celebrate employees who have been with the city for a significant amount of time. Additionally, there are various department-specific recognition programs that highlight exceptional work within specific areas.

Yes, there is a dress code for City of Portsmouth employees. The dress code varies depending on the specific department and job responsibilities, but generally employees are expected to dress professionally and appropriately for the workplace. This may include business casual attire or more formal business attire. It is important for employees to follow the dress code to maintain a professional image and promote a positive work environment.

The City of Portsmouth has established a formal grievance process for handling employee grievances or disputes. Employees are encouraged to first discuss their concerns with their immediate supervisor. If the issue cannot be resolved, the employee can file a formal grievance with the human resources department. The grievance is then reviewed and investigated, and a decision is made in a timely manner. The city also offers mediation services to help resolve disputes between employees and their supervisors.

Yes, the City of Portsmouth offers seasonal and temporary employment opportunities in various departments such as parks and recreation, public works, and administrative positions. These positions are typically available during busy seasons or when there is a need for additional staff. Interested individuals can check the city's website or job postings for current openings and application procedures.

The vacation and sick leave policy for City of Portsmouth employees is determined by their employee classification and length of service. Full-time employees earn vacation time based on their years of service, ranging from 12 to 25 days per year. They also receive 12 sick days per year. Part-time employees earn prorated vacation and sick leave based on their scheduled work hours.

Yes, the City of Portsmouth offers a retirement plan for its employees. This plan is called the Portsmouth Employee Retirement System (PERS) and it provides retirement benefits for eligible employees. The PERS is a defined benefit plan, meaning that the retirement benefits are based on a formula that takes into account an employee's salary and years of service. Employees are automatically enrolled in the PERS upon hire.

Yes, the City of Portsmouth offers telecommuting and remote work opportunities for certain positions. These opportunities are typically available in departments that require more flexibility, such as IT, communications, and administrative roles. Employees must meet certain criteria and obtain approval from their supervisor before being eligible for telecommuting or remote work options.

The City of Portsmouth has a strict policy on drug and alcohol use for employees. It is strictly prohibited for employees to use, possess, or be under the influence of drugs or alcohol while on duty or on city property. Violation of this policy can result in disciplinary action, up to and including termination. The city also offers resources and support for employees struggling with substance abuse.

The City of Portsmouth offers a wide range of job opportunities in various departments such as administration, public works, parks and recreation, finance, public safety, and more. These positions can include roles in management, administration, customer service, maintenance, and law enforcement. The city also offers internships and volunteer opportunities for those looking to gain experience and contribute to the community.

Yes, the City of Portsmouth offers various training and professional development programs for its employees. These programs cover a wide range of topics such as leadership, communication, customer service, and technical skills. Employees are encouraged to participate in these programs to enhance their knowledge and skills, which can lead to career advancement opportunities within the city.

The work schedule for City of Portsmouth employees varies depending on their job position and department. Generally, most employees work 40 hours per week, Monday through Friday. However, some positions may require evening or weekend shifts, such as public safety and emergency response roles. Additionally, some departments may offer flexible schedules or telecommuting options. Overall, the work schedule is designed to meet the needs of the community while also providing a healthy work-life balance for employees.

Yes, the City of Portsmouth offers various internship and volunteer opportunities. These opportunities can be found through the City's website or by contacting the City's Human Resources department. Internships may be available in various departments such as public works, parks and recreation, or administration. Volunteer opportunities may also be available in areas such as community events, environmental conservation, or senior services.

The City of Portsmouth has implemented various measures to ensure diversity in its hiring process. These include actively recruiting diverse candidates through job fairs, job postings, and outreach efforts to minority communities. The city also has policies in place to prevent discrimination and promote equal opportunity in the workplace. Additionally, diversity training is provided to all hiring managers to promote a fair and inclusive hiring process.