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Jobs and training

Selection process

  • Selection process

    Following the completion of an application form we use a range of selection processes to select the most appropriate candidate for a job. 

  • Panel shortlist

    After the closing date, a panel reviews your application. 

    They compare your information with the criteria in the employee specification. 

    If you meet the criteria, you will move to the next stage. If not, you will receive written confirmation. 

  • Testing and assessment

    Some jobs include tests or an assessment centre. 

    An assessment centre may include: 

    • presentations 
    • written exercises 
    • role-play scenarios 
    • You may also complete: 
    • skills tests 
    • numerical or verbal reasoning tests 
    • practical tests

    These help us assess the skills needed for the job. 

    Details of any tests are in the terms and conditions for each job. 

    If you meet the required standard, you will move to the next stage. 

    If you have a disability, we can make reasonable adjustments. Email [email protected] when you receive your test invite.

  • Interview

    If you pass the earlier stages, you may be invited to an interview. 

    Interview dates are listed in the terms and conditions. Make sure you are available on these dates. 

    The interview panel usually includes two or three council officers. For senior roles, councillors may be on the panel. 

    All candidates are asked the same core questions. 

    Questions are based on:

    • the job description 
    • the employee specification

     Some roles may require: 

    • a presentation 
    • a written or oral briefing

    You may receive the topic in advance or on the day. 

    If you cannot attend, email [email protected]. However, we may not be able to offer another date. 

    You will receive your interview result in writing.

  • Appointment process

    If you are successful, we will recommend you for appointment. You must then complete pre-employment checks. This information helps us make a final decision. 

    You will need to complete a Disclosure of Criminal Convictions form. Having a criminal record does not necessarily prevent appointment. 

    You can read the Access NI Code of Practice (link opens in new window) or you can ask us for a copy. 

    We also have a policy on recruiting people with criminal records.

    You can request this by emailing [email protected]. 

    Some roles also require an Access NI check. We will pay for this.

    Pre-employment checks 

    Right to work in the UK 

    To do this you can provide proof using a digital identity check (Digital Verification Service). You must have a valid UK or Irish biometric passport or passport card to complete this check. 

    If you cannot provide this, email [email protected].  We will advise on other documents. 

    Qualifications, memberships and licences 

    Provide original proof of all qualifications, memberships and licences listed in your application which were used for shortlisting purposes. These must be valid at the closing date. 

    Health check 

    You must complete a confidential health questionnaire. 

    References 

    Some roles require references. 

    You need to: 

    • provide two referees  
    • include at least one current or previous employer 
    • ensure referees can comment on your work 
    • make sure referees are not related to you 
    • provide contact details for each referee

    You will submit the request to your referees using our recruitment portal. 

    Relationships 

    You must tell us about any relationships with: 

    • councillors 
    • council officers

    You will complete a form to declare this.

  • Offer of employment

    You can help speed up the process by completing all checks quickly. 

    Once checks are complete, we will agree a start date and confirm this in writing. 

    You will receive an email when your offer letter is ready. 

    You must: 

    • view it on the recruitment portal 
    • sign and submit it online

    Submit this as soon as possible to avoid delays. 

  • Starting work

    Your offer letter will tell you: 

    • where to go 
    • who to report to

    This is usually your line manager. 

    They will: 

    • welcome you 
    • introduce you to your team 
    • give you a tour of the workplace

    They will also explain your induction programme. 

    This will help you learn about: 

    • your role 
    • the council 
    • how we work
  • Reserve list

    After interview, you may be placed on a reserve list. This means you are suitable for similar roles in the future. 

    If a similar job becomes available within a set time: 

    • it may be offered to you 
    • you will not need another interview

Contact us

For more information and advice, get in touch.

[email protected]

028 9027 0640

Human Resources, 9 Adelaide, 9-21 Adelaide Street, Belfast, BT2 8DJ

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