FAQs

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Application Process FAQs

• Will I need an email account to apply for a position?

  Yes, you will need an email address in order to create an account.  If you do not have an email address, you can set up a free email address at www.yahoo.com or www.gmail.com. 

• What happens to my application once I apply?

  Your application will be reviewed by Human Resources to determine if you have met all of the minimum requirements.  Once you have met all the minimum requirements you will be moved on to the next step in the hiring process.  You can check the status of your application by logging into your account online at www.governmentjobs.com or by contacting Human Resources at 863.834.8798.

• What if I forget to attach my documents at time of application?

  If you have already submitted your application and forgot to attach your documents you can submit the documents by emailing them to civilservice@lakelandgov.net or by dropping them off in person or mailing them to 500 North Lake Parker Avenue, Lakeland, Florida 33801.

• What does a continuous posting date mean?

  A continuous closing date means that there is currently no definite closing date for the recruitment, it may close at any time—WITHOUT NOTICE.

• What if I have a disabling condition that requires a reasonable accommodation to participate in the application or testing process

  You must notify Human Resources at 863.834.8798.  Documentation of disability may be required. The City TDD phone number is 863.834.8333.

• If offered the position, will I be required to complete a criminal background investigation and drug testing?

  All new hires are required to successfully complete a criminal background check. Certain positions, based on access or job responsibilities, may require a more comprehensive background investigation. The City is a drug-free workplace. Positions designated as mandatory tested positions under Florida Statute are required to complete and pass a pre-employment drug test and are subject to random drug testing throughout employment. All City positions are also subject to reasonable suspicion drug testing. Applicants or employees who use or possess illegal drugs will be denied employment and/or subject to termination.

• Will I be notified that I was not selected for a position?

  Once a candidate is selected and starts their first day of employment, all other candidates will receive an email notifying them that they were not selected for the position.

• What is an equivalency?

  An equivalency is a comparable combination of education, training, and experience that provides the knowledge, skills, abilities, and competencies required to perform the duties of the position, even if the stated minimum qualifications are not met.

• How do I know if the job posting is accepting an equivalency?

  You can tell a job posting is accepting an equivalency if it includes the following statement under the Qualifications (Education, Training, and Experience) section:

  “An equivalent combination of education, training, and experience which provides the knowledge, skills, abilities, and other competencies necessary for success in the target position may be considered.”

• How does the equivalency work?

  An equivalency allows applicants to substitute education and experience when they exceed the minimum qualifications for a position. Generally, one additional year of education beyond the minimum requirement may be substituted for one year of required experience. Likewise, three additional years of directly related work experience beyond the minimum requirement may be substituted for one year of required education.

  Example:
  If a position requires a bachelor’s degree, three years of accounting experience, and one year of supervisory experience,an applicant may qualify under an equivalency with any of the following combinations:

  • High school diploma, 15 years of accounting experience, and one year of supervisory experience

  • Associate’s degree, nine years of accounting experience, and one year of supervisory experience

  • Bachelor’s degree, three years of accounting experience, and one year of supervisory experience

  • Master’s degree, one year of accounting experience, and one year of supervisory experience

  • PhD and one year of supervisory experience

  Each combination demonstrates the required knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to perform the duties of the position.

Pre-Employment Testing FAQs

• How do I know if an assessment is required for a position?

  After you submit your application and meet all the minimum qualifications for the position, you will receive an email if a test is required. This email will include the date, time, and location of the assessment, along with any additional instructions. Be sure to check your email regularly for updates and next steps.

• How will I know that I am invited to take an assessment?

  If you meet the requirements for the position, you will be sent an email outlining the testing date, time, and location.  Please check your email frequently to avoid missing a testing date.

• How will I know if I passed or failed an assessment?

  Once all assessments for the position are graded, you will receive an email with your overall score and the required passing score (cut score).

• If I pass the assessment does that guarantee an interview?

  A passing score does not guarantee an interview for the position.  The hiring manager will select the candidates based on their experience and assessment score to determine which candidates they will invite for an interview.

• How long is my test score valid for?

  Test scores are valid for 18 months.  Police and Fire assessments are valid for 24 months.

• When can I retest for an assessment?

  You can retest for an assessment after 6 months.  Some candidates decide to retest to increase their score.  If you received a test score below the passing requirement you can test to enhance your score above the passing requirement after 6 months.  If you passed the assessment prior, you will still have the opportunity to retest after 6 months to enhance your score.  When you decide to retest your most recent score will become your new score and all prior scores will no longer be valid.

• If I have a valid test score for a position do I need to reapply or will I be considered for future positions while my test score is valid?

  The hiring manager has the ability to consider prior applicants with valid test scores for positions, but this is not guaranteed.  To ensure that you will be considered for future opening we encourage you to apply for each posting.

• How will I know that my prior test score is no longer valid and I am required to take the test again?

  If you have applied for a position and your prior test score is no longer valid, you will receive an email from Human Resources inviting you to take the assessment.

• If I qualify for veteran’s preference points will they be added to my assessment score?

  Veteran’s preference points will be added to each step of the process as long as you meet the passing score requirements for that step.

First Day of Employment FAQs

• What can I expect on my first day of employment with the City of Lakeland?

  Onboarding introduces you to the City of Lakeland, the expectations of being a City employee, and the benefits available to you. During Onboarding, you will also have the opportunity to meet members of the City’s Management team and learn about their expectations.

  In some cases, you may begin work before attending an Onboarding session. If that occurs, you will be provided your start date, reporting location, and reporting time prior to starting employment.

• How do I know when my first day will be?

  A tentative start date is provided in your offer letter. This date is contingent upon your successful completion of all required pre-employment steps. These may include, but are not limited to, a drug test, criminal background investigation, motor vehicle report, physical examination, and completion of the I-9 Employment Eligibility Verification.

  After you accept the offer, you will meet with Human Resources to complete your new hire paperwork. Your start date will be confirmed once all pre-employment requirements have been successfully completed. Employment cannot begin until all required conditions are met.

• Where do I report to Onboarding?

  Please report to the City of Lakeland Training/Assessment Center at 7:45 a.m. The center is located at 989 East Memorial Boulevard, Lakeland, Florida 33801. If the location changes due to capacity or other reasons, you will be notified in advance with the updated address.

• Do I need to pack a lunch to take to Onboarding?

  As part of your onboarding experience, lunch will be provided.