Job applications
Where and how are jobs advertised?
Vacant positions at the Sydney Catchment Authority (SCA) are advertised on www.jobs.nsw.gov.au. They are also advertised in the NSW Government section of Saturday's employment pages of the Sydney Morning Herald and Daily Telegraph, and on websites such as Seek.com.
Job vacancy advertisements usually include:
- a vacancy reference number
- a position title
- a brief description of the job and the selection criteria
- location of job
- pay level
- closing date for applications
- contact person for information package.
What is a position description?
If you are interested in applying for a position you need a copy of the relevant position description.
You can get a copy of the position description for any advertised SCA job by contacting the person named in the advertisement, or by downloading it from www.jobs.nsw.gov.au.
The position description includes details about the purpose, nature and scope, challenges/problem solving, decision making requirements and interpersonal relationships of the job. It also describes the knowledge, skills and experience required for the job.
After reading the job description, you may have questions about the job or the SCA. The contact person identified in the job advertisement is usually the best place to start. More information about the SCA is also available on this website.
What is an information package?
Information packages are provided to all applicants on request and include the following information:
- role of the SCA
- job applicant guide
- selection process
- code of conduct.
Information packages are in addition to the position description and selection criteria. Applicants must provide details about how they meet the selection criteria specific to the job in the position description.
What to include in your job application
The following information is a guide only. Check with the contact person identified in the job advertisement if you are unsure about what information to include.
- A brief covering letter including your name, address, telephone number and vacancy reference number.
- Your response to the each of the selection criteria showing how you meet them.
- A resume or CV, which may include an outline of your work experience, positions held, periods of employment, major responsibilities and achievements, duties performed, education, training or development, and any relevant qualifications.
- Your referees' name, title, and telephone number (minimum of two required). Ideally, a referee is a person who can comment on your recent work performance and has agreed to act as your referee.
- Copies of your qualifications. Please do not send originals. If applying online, you can send copies of qualifications as file attachments or supply them at interview.
What are selection criteria?
Selection criteria describe the particular skills, knowledge, experience, personal attributes and, in some cases, qualifications that are required to perform the job. Selection criteria are included in the job description.
Selection criteria are provided with the information package or can be obtained from www.jobs.nsw.gov.au.
Shortlisting for interviews is based on how well your application demonstrates you can meet the criteria. Only those applicants with the greatest claim to the position are selected for interview.
As a guide, address each selection criterion separately in your written application. Describe how your skills, knowledge, experience and abilities could be used in the job to meet the criteria.
Submitting your application
Send your application by the closing date shown in the job advertisement. The SCA will send a written acknowledgement of receipt. If you apply online at www.jobs.nsw.gov.au you will automatically receive a receipt notification.
Preparing for an interview
If you are invited to attend an interview, you will be given at least 72 hours notice of when you are required.
Interviews are structured with questions based on the selection criteria and position description. Make yourself familiar with the selection criteria and responses provided in your application.
Think through likely questions and practise your answers. Be prepared for different types of interview questions, for example, job scenario, situational, job knowledge and work experience questions.
Review your application and make a note of points you want to emphasise. Consider your strengths, the challenges of the job, and how your skills, knowledge, ability and experience will help you to meet them. If you have any questions about the job or the SCA, write them down and ask them at the end of the interview.
