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Civil Service Test
Study Plan
Testing for most civil service jobs
happens only periodically and sometimes as little as once every two
years. An exam
may consist of one test or a number of different tests. Note that
once you pass the test and you're on a civil service list, you'll be
interviewed to determine if you receive a job offer. Identify the
tests from the Job Bulletin and review our tips.
Civil
Service Study Guides
- Start now!
Follow the
easy steps:
The Job Bulletin
Review a copy of the job bulletin for position that you're applying
for.
The bulletin typically includes a description of the
duties of the job, the test(s) in the exam, and the scoring of each
test. Underline the key duties and key test subjects as
we've done with the Park Ranger position.
THE DUTIES
A Park Ranger provides public assistance and emergency services, including
first aid, crowd and traffic control, firefighting, and
search and rescue; patrols City parks, beaches, and other facilities to ensure park security;
interprets and enforces City regulations and Municipal and Penal Code sections regarding park use;
prepares and presents interpretive nature and environmental programs; and may provide radio
communication to ranger units.
THE EXAMINATION
QUALIFYING MULTIPLE CHOICE TEST: Candidates must pass a qualifying multiple choice test which may examine for knowledge of
triage criteria and emergency medical treatment; public
relations, conflict resolution, and other interpersonal
skills; reading comprehension; correct English usage; and other necessary knowledge and abilities. At the time of the multiple choice test, candidates will be required to complete a Park Ranger Training and Experience Questionnaire.
EVALUATION OF OVERALL
QUALIFICATIONS: This evaluation will take place only for candidates who achieve a passing score on the Qualifying Multiple Choice Test. The evaluation, conducted by a panel of subject matter experts based on job-related criteria, will consist of a review of the candidate's employment application, including
background and training; the information contained in the Park Ranger Training and Experience Questionnaire; and the level of performance on the qualifying written test.
PHYSICAL ABILITY TEST: Candidates will be required to pass a Qualifying Physical Ability Test designed to measure
agility, balance, strength, and endurance.
Examination Weights:
Qualifying Multiple Choice Test
. . . . . . . . . . Pass/Fail
Physical Ability Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Pass/Fail
Evaluation of Overall Qualifications . . . . . . . . . . 100%
Exam
Description
The bulletin for Park Ranger lists three different tests - multiple choice,
physical ability and an evaluation of overall qualifications. All
written tests are timed.
Tests may be qualifying or counted as part of your overall score. A qualifying test means that you must pass the test
to go on to the other tests. Typically, if you fail a qualifying test, you have failed the exam.
Most agencies tell you
exactly what subjects you will be tested. We've underlined the
key duties and key test subjects in the example of the Park Ranger
position.
EXAM TIP
- Haven't
taken a test in a while? Short of time? Jump start your study efforts by
purchasing a study guide.
If you can't find an exact match, try a test guide
for a position similar to the position you're testing for. For
example, you might review study guides for law enforcement if you're
applying to be a Security Officer.
- Review
the free sample tests
from various agencies. The sample tests typically aren't as
comprehensive as the study guides. Also check with your local public library
or your school library.
EVALUATION OF OVERALL
QUALIFICATIONS: This evaluation will take place only for candidates who achieve a passing score on the Qualifying Multiple Choice Test.
The evaluation, conducted by a panel of subject matter experts based on job-related criteria, will consist of a review of the candidate's employment application, including background and training; the information contained in the Park Ranger Training and Experience Questionnaire; and the level of performance on the qualifying written test.
EXAM TIP
- The
"Evaluation of Overall Qualifications" is an interview and
accounts for 100% of your score (see "Examination Weights"
below).
- See
how the job description ties to the interview with the free mock
interviews and resources at job-interview.net.
- Check
the Internet for the latest trends and news in your profession.
- Uncomfortable
or nervous in interviews? The Complete
Interview Guide is available for both non-supervisory and
supervisory jobs. Match the key duties and key skills that
you've underlined to possible interview questions.
Multiple
Choice Test
Multiple choice tests are may be scored
or may also be used as a qualifying test. Multiple choice tests may
have you choose the single best answer or choose the most likely and least
likely answers.
EXAM TIP
Assessment
Center, Essay and In-Basket
Assessment Centers, essay and in-basket
tests are usually used for professional and executive jobs such as
administrative and management positions. Law enforcement promotional
exams may also use assessment centers. The assessment center
simulates the typical duties of a position. The in-basket tests your
ability to handle typical assignments that might cross the desk of the
position that you're testing for.
EXAM TIP
Performance Test
A performance test is usually used for
skilled craft jobs such as welders and equipment operators. The
performance test will require you to demonstrate your skills such in
completing typical welds or driving equipment over a course.
Physical
Ability Test
Physical ability tests are most often
required for public safety positions such as the park ranger example, law
enforcement and firefighting where physical exertion is essential to
performing the job.
Psychological
Test
Psychological tests are often required
for public safety positions such as law enforcement and firefighting where
good judgment in high pressure and high stress situations is
essential.
Can't
find a Guide?
Review the key duties and key test
subjects that you've underlined. Use specific subject guides to test
yourself on the key duties and key test subjects. Use the Exam Tip
below.
Need
additional help on a key duty or test subject?
Do you need to brush up on a key duty or
test subject? Want to improve your skills on a specific duty or test
subject? Use the Exam Tip below.
EXAM TIP
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