Recruitment FAQ

How do I apply to the City of Peterborough? Do I need an application form?
The Human Resources Division does not use application forms for most of the positions advertised. Candidates are asked to submit a resume and cover letter. There are a few positions for which an application form is required, such as Public Works Temporary Seasonal Labourer and Firefighter positions; however, if an application form is required a link will be provided with the job ad.

Can I send in my resume at any time?
The Human Resources Division will only accept resumes in response to current advertised positions. We do not keep unsolicited resumes on file.

If I see a job I want to apply to, how can I get my resume to the Human Resources Division?
Resumes can be sent to us by mail, fax, e-mail or in person. The competition number MUST be specified on the resume or cover letter.

Human Resources Division
City of Peterborough
500 George Street North
Peterborough, ON K9J 3K9
Fax: 705-742-7021
E-mail: hr@peterborough.ca 

How do I know that my resume will get to the right person?
All recruitment advertisements have a competition number included. This competition number lets the Human Resources Division ensure that your resume is considered for the position to which you have applied. The competition number generally looks like the following: 09-T-01.

Can I send in one (1) resume for more than one file?
A separate resume MUST be sent for each position you are applying for.

Will someone contact me to let me know that my resume has been received?
No. Only those candidates who are selected for an interview will be contacted. Due to the volume of resumes received, the Human Resources Division will not contact everyone who applies.

Can I call and find out if my resume has been received?
If you would like to confirm that your resume has been received, you can contact the Human Resources Administrative Assistant at (705) 742-7777 ext. 1875 or by email at hr@peterborough.ca who will put you in contact with the Recruitment Consultant looking after the file.

Is there a cut off date for sending resumes?
Yes. Each recruitment advertisement indicates a closing date, which is the final day for submitting your resume for that position. Resumes will be welcomed up to 4:30 p.m. on the closing date.

What happens after the closing date?
The next step in the process is reviewing the resumes to determine the most qualified candidates for the position. When the top candidates have been selected, they will be contacted for an interview.

What can I expect if I come for an interview?
When you are contacted for an interview, you will be asked to bring three (3) work related references with you, indicating the name, relation and telephone number of the reference. Letters of reference are not required, but can be included. You will be required to sign a Reference Check Permission Form when you arrive for the interview to demonstrate that you have authorized the Human Resources Division to contact these people.

The Human Resources Division conducts panel interviews, i.e. with more than one person asking questions. A member of the HR Division is usually present, as well as a manager or direct supervisor of the position. Each candidate is asked the same questions in the same order. Interviews range in length, but are generally between ½ hour and an hour. The HR Division will supply each panel member with a copy of your resume so there is no need to provide additional copies. You may be required to provide proof of education or license.

Does the Human Resources Division use testing in the recruitment process?
At times, the HR Division does test candidates, using different forms of testing, depending on the position. Candidates may be asked to verify their computer skills in order to determine the best candidate for the position. At other times a post-offer test is used to ensure that a candidate will be able to perform the essential duties of the position, such as a physical/functional abilities assessment or a hearing test.

If you have any further questions that are not answered in this document, please contact the Human Resources Division and someone would be happy to provide you with the information you require.

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Revised:2009-04-15| Revised by: The City of Peterborough