1. Why is the County of Ventura Career & Resource Expo such a valuable opportunity for job seekers and students exploring their future paths?
The Expo provides direct access to representatives from various County departments, allowing attendees to explore different career fields, learn about job opportunities, career paths, and gain insights into public service careers in Ventura County. It’s also an excellent networking event because all agencies and departments are together at one location.
2. With so many departments and career fields represented, what advice would you give to someone attending the Expo for the first time?
Come prepared to engage, not just collect brochures. Be intentional and identify the target departments that offer careers in your area of expertise. Review our job descriptions page to find jobs that interest you. Don’t be afraid to ask insightful questions about current or future opportunities, seek advice for applying, and make a good impression!
3. The County has 25 agencies and departments. Can you share which agencies are actively hiring right now?
The County of Ventura consistently has job openings across its 25 agencies and departments, as the need for public services is ongoing. All current job openings are listed exclusively on the County’s official career page at hr.ventura.org.
While specific real-time hiring numbers for each agency fluctuate daily, commonly active areas for recruitment include:
- Health Care Agency: This agency is frequently hiring for a wide range of medical and administrative positions at Ventura County Medical Center (VCMC) and other clinics, including nurses, technicians, and support staff.
- Public Safety: The Sheriff’s Office and Fire Department regularly seek to fill positions such as Deputy Sheriffs, Firefighters, and support roles.
- Human Services Agency: Roles related to social work, case management, and program support are often in demand.
- Public Works Agency: This agency frequently hires for positions related to engineering, maintenance, and infrastructure.
- General Services Agency (GSA): GSA encompasses various functions like facilities, procurement, and fleet services, often having openings in these areas.
- Information Technology Services (ITS): As with any large organization, IT roles across various specializations are typically available.
For the most accurate and up-to-date information on which of the 25 agencies are actively hiring, job seekers should visit hr.ventura.org and browse the current job listings. This is the definitive source for all County of Ventura employment opportunities.
4. Can you walk us through what the hiring process typically looks like and how your HR team supports applicants along the way?
The typical hiring process involves submitting an online application during an open recruitment. Each recruitment is managed by a County recruiter who reviews applicant qualifications, often followed by an examination component such as a written or oral examination (or an application evaluation, also known as T&E). Once the recruiter determines that the applicant meets the qualifications, the applicant is placed on an eligible list, which can be valid for six months to one year.
The last step in the process is the selection interview, and hiring managers invite candidates from the certified eligible list. The HR team supports applicants along each step by providing detailed job announcements, FAQs, and contact information for specific recruiters. They guide applicants through each stage and offer resources for preparing for exams and interviews. There are also helpful tips and videos on the County’s Human Resource Home page.
5. What would you say to someone who’s unsure if they’re “qualified enough” to apply for a County job?
Don’t self-eliminate! Many County positions offer varied entry points, and your unique skills and experiences might be a perfect fit, even if you don’t meet every single preferred qualification. Carefully review job descriptions, highlight transferable skills, and consider applying; you might be more qualified than you think.
