KINGSTON, NY - Ulster County takes a significant step towards a more equitable and inclusive workforce by announcing the waiving of all exam fees for prospective government employees. The initiative, proposed by the Executive Office and Personnel Department, was made possible through the recent passage of Resolution 313 by the Ulster County Legislature. This policy went into effect for any exams announced beginning today, June 1, 2023.
State law requires civil service applicants to pass tests in order to be considered for the competitive positions they are applying for, and costs are associated with the taking of exams. In most counties across New York State, exam fees paid by the applicant are required for any non-management level governmental position to offset the costs to the County for hosting the exam. Fees for exams in Ulster County have typically ranged between $20-$40 per exam.
“Our greatest asset in Ulster County is our people, and qualified candidates should be able to apply for positions in County government without paying a fee," said Ulster County Executive Jen Metzger. "Eliminating civil service exam fees promotes fair and equitable opportunities for positions in public service, regardless of means, and will encourage more qualified candidates to apply."
“This is an important step in breaking down barriers to employment that we have control over," said Dawn Spader, Ulster County Director of Personnel. "I am proud to be part of an administration committed to providing opportunities for all."
Ulster County Legislator John Gavaris, Chairman of the Ways and Means Committee, sponsored the resolution proposed by the County Executive.
“Recruiting candidates and filling vacancies has become a nationwide problem, and Ulster County is no different,” said Ulster County Legislator John Gavaris. “We should do what we can to expand the number of applicants for Civil Service jobs so we can make sure we hire the best possible candidates. Eliminating the Civil Service test fees will remove a barrier to entry for local residents, especially those who need a job the most, and will help to increase our pool of candidates.”
This change coincides with today’s launch of Ulster County's new electronic dashboard, which streamlines the application process and eliminates the need for paper applications, helping to make that process easier and more seamless. https://ulster-portal.mycivilservice.com/
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