Frequently Asked Questions
- As a new employee what do I need for my first day?
- As a new employee will I serve an probationary period?
- Do you keep resumes/applications on file?
- How do I find out about career opportunities?
- How many people are employed by DESE?
- How often are DESE employees paid?
- How often do we advertise vacancies?
- If I am currently a state employee that is transferring to DESE, how much annual leave may I transfer?
- Is the Department a merit or non-merit agency?
- What benefits do you offer?
- What is the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE)?
- What is the difference between merit and non-merit positions?
- What is the process once I submit my resume/application?
- What is the timetable for this process?
- Who reviews my resume/application and who will interview me?
- Whom should I contact to check the status of a vacancy?
- Will I be contacted when the position I applied for is filled?
As a new employee what do I need for my first day?
- You will need to meet with the Human Resources office to complete your employee
paperwork. - You will need to make sure you have submitted a Department employment
application and college transcripts. - I-9 Information for the Employment Eligibility Verification form. A driver’s license,
social security card, passport or appropriate visa. The Department is unable to
sponsor applicants in their application for work visas through INS.
As a new employee will I serve an probationary period?
Yes, each new employee will serve an orientation period.
- Non-exempt (support) employees serve a six-month orientation period.
- Exempt (professional) employees serve a one-year period.
Do you keep resumes/applications on file?
No, we do not keep resumes/applications on file. It is necessary for you submit a new resume/application for each vacancy you apply for.
How do I find out about career opportunities?
- By accessing our website.
- By calling (573) 751-3815.
- GreatHires website.
- Ads can be found in local newspapers in the area of the position.
How many people are employed by DESE?
The Department employs about 2,000 persons throughout the state.
How often are DESE employees paid?
Department employees are paid bi-monthly on the 15th and the last working day of the month.
How often do we advertise vacancies?
The Department advertises vacancies at the end of each week. The vacancy website is updated on Mondays.
If I am currently a state employee that is transferring to DESE, how much annual leave may I transfer?
The Department generally accepts a maximum of 80 hours of annual leave from another State agency. Contact Human Resources to verify acceptance.
Is the Department a merit or non-merit agency?
The Department is a non-merit agency.
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
- Cafeteria Plan
- Deferred Compensation Plan
- Health Insurance
- Dental Insurance
- Life Insurance
- Retirement
- 12 Paid Holidays
- Sick and Vacation Leave
- Shared Leave Program
- Department Paid Training
What is the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE)?
The Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) is the administrative arm of the State Board of Education. It is primarily a service agency that works with educators, legislators, government agencies and citizens to maintain a strong public education system. Through its statewide school-improvement initiatives and regulatory functions, the Department strives to assure that all citizens have access to high-quality public education.
What is the difference between merit and non-merit positions?
The primary difference is the selection process. Merit divisions must fill positions by using registers provided to them by the Office of Administration. Non-merit divisions do not work through the Office of Administration when filling positions. Some small differences also exist in the types of Personnel Advisory appeal rights employee's have. Classification, pay and time/leave issues are the same in both merit and non-merit divisions.
What is the process once I submit my resume/application?
When we receive your resume/application in our office, the hiring committee reviews each resume/application to determine if the applicant meets the minimum qualifications for the position. The committee then selects individuals for interviews. Applicants are then called to schedule an interview. Once a finalist is selected, approval from the division administrator is needed before an offer is made.
What is the timetable for this process?
The timetable for this process depends on the hiring committee’s schedule in order to review and schedule interviews. Normally, it takes approximately two months to make an offer of employment.
Who reviews my resume/application and who will interview me?
A committee determined by the hiring section will review and interview applicants.
Whom should I contact to check the status of a vacancy?
You may contact the Job Status hotline at (573) 751-3815 or contact Human Resources at (573) 751-9619.
Will I be contacted when the position I applied for is filled?
No, unless you have interviewed for the position.