Applying to a Vacancy


Are you interested in working for the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania? We are glad you're here! In this tutorial, you will learn how to successfully apply to a job with the commonwealth. 

Here are a few helpful tips before you begin your search:

  • Create an account or sign in to an already existing account.
  • Have a resume ready.
  • If you experience technical issues with your account, please contact 855-524-5627.

1. Start your search.

Visit www.employment.pa.gov and click the "Open Jobs" tile. You will then be given the option to "Continue to Open Jobs" or to "Subscribe to Job Alerts".

Once you're ready, check out our open jobs! Feel free to use the search bar at the top if you know the particular type of job you're looking for. You can also use the "Sort" option to list jobs by posting date, or the "Filter" option if you're looking for something specific, such as work location (county). 

Note: Some vacancies require applicants to take an exam before they can apply. Check the vacancy description to find out if it requires an exam. For additional information on applying to an exam, check out these instructions.



2. Sign in or create an account.

If you have an account, you can sign in now.

If you've forgotten the username and/or password, click on the "Forgot Username?" and/or "Reset Password" button. If you are still unable to access your account, please contact 855-524-5627.

To create an account, enter your email, a unique username that doesn't contain any special characters, and a password that has:

  • At least 8 characters
  • Upper and lowercase letters
  • Numbers and symbols

You'll need to agree to the Terms of Service after you create your account.



3. Ready to apply?

Find something you like? We're glad to hear it! Click on "Apply" to begin the application process. Pay close attention to the instructions included on the posting and be sure to apply by the closing date, if there is one.

Some postings require additional documents, such as a resume, transcript, or certificate. If you do not provide all required items, you may not be considered for the position.



4. Import your resume (optional).

Importing your resume may save you a few steps. To upload your resume, click on the gray "Upload from Computer" icon or drag and drop your resume from your desktop. This will pre-populate the appropriate fields on your application.

After you upload your resume, double-check that each field of the application transferred correctly. After updating each section of the application, choose "Save" to move to the next section.

If you'd prefer, you can choose to skip this step and to manually enter your application. You will have also an opportunity to upload your resume as an attachment at the end of the application process.

Note: if the details provided do not clearly indicate the experience as applicable, you may not be considered for the job.



5. Fill out the application in detail.

Job seekers must meet the required minimum experience and training as indicated on the posting in order to be considered for the job. If you believe you qualify, you will need to provide as much detail as possible about your relative job duties to ensure you qualify for the job.

Note: if the details provided do not clearly indicate the experience as applicable, you may not be considered for the job.



6. Add skills.

You can choose to add additional skills to your application, such as proficiency with Adobe products or knowledge of another language.



7. Add attachments.

Some of our jobs will require you to include a resume, college transcript, certification, etc. as an attachment to your application. If the posting requires one of these items, the attachment will be verified by evaluation staff to ensure you meet the requirements and/or have included the appropriate information. 

You may also attach any other items that you feel are relevant, such as a cover letter or a letter of recommendation.

Note: If your qualifying education was obtained outside of the United States, you will need to provide documentation prepared by a professional foreign credentials evaluation organization.



8. Answer supplemental questions.

Supplemental questions to the application are used to determine an applicant's eligibility and qualifications for the job. All answers to supplemental questions are verified by evaluation staff to ensure the applicant has the identified experience and training.

Please answer any supplemental questions fully. Failure to do so may result in your application being ineligible.



9. Review and certify.

You will not be able to make any changes after you submit your application, so review your application carefully to ensure all fields are accurate. When you've finished reviewing your application, proceed to "Certify and Submit".



10. Submit your application.

Ready to submit? We're looking forward to hearing from you! Click on "Accept and Submit" to finalize and submit your application.

Congratulations, you've successfully submitted your application! A confirmation email will be sent to you shortly. If you're selected for further consideration, the hiring agency will contact you directly.

Each posting has the name and information of the person you should contact if you have questions. Make note of this information when you apply. Once the posting expires, it will no longer be available online.


Good luck and thank you for your interest in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania!