Frequently Asked Questions about State of Oregon Careers

All State of Oregon employees must undergo a criminal background check as part of the hiring process. The state also requires that all employees submit to a pre-employment drug test. In addition, the state may require additional background checks, such as a credit check or other specific checks, depending on the position being filled.

Yes, the State of Oregon offers a variety of apprenticeship programs, including those in health care, information technology, construction, and other areas. Programs vary in length and may include classroom instruction, on-the-job training, and mentoring. For more information, visit the Oregon Apprenticeship Program website at http://www.oregon.gov/boli/apprenticeship/Pages/default.aspx.

Yes, the State of Oregon offers a number of scholarships and grants for its employees. These include the Oregon Employee Scholarship Program, the Tuition Reimbursement Program, the Oregon Employee Education Assistance Program, and the Oregon Employee Education Assistance Grant Program. Additionally, the State of Oregon offers a number of other grants and scholarships for specific purposes, such as the Oregon Teacher Grant Program, the Oregon Community College Grant Program, and the Oregon Higher Education Grant Program.

The State of Oregon offers a variety of diversity initiatives for employees, including: - Employee Resource Groups (ERGs): These groups promote diversity and inclusion through networking, mentoring, and professional development opportunities. They also host events for employees to learn more about various cultures and provide support for individuals from different backgrounds. - Diversity & Inclusion Training: The State of Oregon offers a variety of diversity and inclusion trainings and workshops for employees. These trainings cover topics like unconscious bias, understanding privilege, and creating a culture of inclusion. - Employee Development & Career Advancement: The State of Oregon provides employees with resources and support to help them reach their professional goals. It offers tuition assistance, leadership development programs, and mentoring opportunities for employees. - Workplace Flexibility: The State of Oregon encourages employees to take advantage of flexible work arrangements such as telework, flexible scheduling, and job sharing. This helps employees achieve a work-life balance that meets their individual needs.

Yes, there are many volunteer opportunities with the State of Oregon. These include volunteering with the Oregon State Parks, Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, Oregon State Library, and Oregon Department of Forestry. Other opportunities can be found through the Oregon Volunteers website, which lists many volunteer opportunities with state agencies and programs.

The State of Oregon offers a variety of job opportunities for students, including internships, part-time jobs, and seasonal positions. Internships are available in many areas, including public policy, communications, natural resources, and more. Part-time jobs are available in areas such as customer service, administrative support, and retail. Seasonal positions are available in areas such as parks and recreation, forestry, and natural resources.

Yes, the State of Oregon provides reasonable accommodations for employees with disabilities. This includes allowing employees to modify their work schedule or workplace, providing assistive technology, and allowing them to use a service animal.

Yes, the State of Oregon offers both job shadowing and mentoring programs for its employees. The Oregon Job Shadowing Program is a free program that provides employees with the opportunity to observe other State of Oregon departments and agencies. The State of Oregon Mentoring Program is a formal, structured program that pairs experienced State of Oregon employees with newer employees who are looking for career guidance. For more information, visit the State of Oregon's website.

The State of Oregon offers a variety of support services to veterans who are employed by the state. These include: • Veteran Employment Preference: Eligible veterans are allowed preference in hiring for state jobs. • Veteran Employment Resources: The state has a number of resources available to assist veterans in finding employment, including job search sites and career fairs. • Employment Assistance: The state has a number of programs and services available to assist veterans with job searches and career planning. • Veteran-Owned Small Business Assistance: The Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs provides resources and support to help veterans start their own businesses. • Mental Health Services: The state offers mental health services specifically designed for veterans. These services include counseling, crisis intervention, and referral services. • Education Benefits: Veterans may be eligible for educational benefits such as the GI Bill and other scholarships. • Tax Benefits: The state offers tax benefits to veterans and their families. • Other Services: The state offers a variety of other services to veterans, including housing assistance, legal assistance, and more.

Yes, the State of Oregon offers a variety of incentives for employees, including competitive salaries, comprehensive benefits packages, generous leave programs, and professional development opportunities.

Yes, the State of Oregon offers a Defined Benefit Plan to eligible employees. This plan provides a guaranteed benefit at retirement, based on years of service and salary. Employees are also eligible to participate in the Oregon Savings Growth Plan (OSP) and the Public Employees Retirement System (PERS), which provide additional retirement savings and investments.

Yes, the State of Oregon offers an employee assistance program (EAP) to its employees. The EAP provides confidential counseling, resources, and referrals to help employees manage their personal and work-related concerns.

The State of Oregon provides a variety of support services for its employees. These include access to the Oregon Employee Assistance Program (OEAP), which offers free counseling and support services; the Statewide Employee Wellness Program, which provides health and wellness resources; the Oregon Family Leave Law, which provides paid and unpaid leave for qualifying employees; the Civil Rights and Equity Office, which provides information and support for employees facing discrimination; and the State of Oregon Employee Recognition Program, which recognizes employees for their accomplishments.

Yes, the State of Oregon offers a variety of special programs and initiatives for its employees. These include career development, leadership and professional development, diversity and inclusion initiatives, mentorship opportunities, wellness programs, and employee recognition programs. Additionally, the State of Oregon has a number of incentive programs and benefits to help retain and reward employees, including tuition reimbursement, health and dental insurance, and retirement programs.

Performance of State of Oregon employees is evaluated through a performance management system known as the Performance Management System for Oregon (PMSO). This system uses a five-step process which includes goal setting, performance planning, observation, feedback, and evaluation. Through this system, employees have the opportunity to discuss their performance and set goals with their supervisor. Evaluations are based on an employee's demonstrated performance against those goals and competencies across the organization. Employees are expected to demonstrate acceptable performance in the areas of quality, timeliness, accuracy, customer service, and safety.

To apply for a job with the State of Oregon, please visit the Oregon State Jobs website at https://jobs.oregon.gov/. Once there, you can search for job postings, create an account to apply for jobs, and check your application status. You may also view the State of Oregon's recruitment process and learn more about the different types of jobs available.

Yes, the State of Oregon has a probationary period for new employees. The length of the probationary period depends on the position being filled and may range from six months to two years.

Yes, the State of Oregon has a dress code for employees. The dress code is outlined in the Administrative Rules of the State of Oregon, and it outlines appropriate attire in the workplace, including clothing, hairstyles, jewelry, and footwear.

The State of Oregon posts job openings on a regular basis. Job openings are posted on their website on a daily basis, and they also post on the USAJOBS website once a week.

The State of Oregon offers a wide variety of training opportunities for its employees including online learning, workshops and seminars, webinars, and instructor-led classes. Employees can take advantage of on-the-job training, mentoring programs, and other specialized training opportunities. The State also offers college tuition assistance and certification programs for eligible employees.