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Frequently Asked Questions

• What is the Department of Social Services?

  The Department of Social Services is responsible for coordinating programs to provide public assistance to children and their parents, access to health care, child support enforcement assistance and to provide specialized assistance to troubled youth. While many programs give needed financial assistance and services, other units work toward reducing financial dependency of the citizens on government.

• How many people are employed by the Department of Social Services?

  8,500+

• How often does DSS advertise open jobs?

  As they become available.

• How do I find out about job opportunities?
  • By calling (573) 571-4244
  • By accessing our Job Opportunities webpage
  • Ads may be found in local newspapers in the area of the position
• How do I know what job titles to apply for?

  Titles and descriptions of merit classifications can be accessed at Job Classes Frequently Used at DSS and State of Missouri Job Descriptions.

• What happens after I submit my State of Missouri Merit Application?
  The Office of Administration, Division of Personnel will review your application and determine whether you qualify for the position(s). If you qualify, you will receive a score based on your education and experience, or, if an exam is required for this position, you will be scheduled for testing which will determine your score. If you receive a score of 70 or higher, your name and score will be added to a register for the job classification. When DSS has a vacancy, if you are on the register, you may be contacted for an interview.
• If I am contacted and scheduled for an interview, what should I bring to the interview?

  You should bring a completed DSS Employment Application and any other job materials requested in the advertisement.

• Whom should I contact if I have a medical condition requiring special equipment or some other accommodation to allow me to participate in the interview?

  At a reasonable time before the interview is scheduled, contact the person scheduling the interview or contact the Human Resource Center at 573-751-4244, TDD: 1-800-735-2966. DSS will make reasonable accommodations upon receipt of necessary information about your need for special equipment or other accommodations.

• What will happen DURING the interview?

  Normally, an interview panel of at least two individuals will ask you to respond to a series of questions. You may also be asked to complete some type of performance test, depending on the position for which you are being interviewed. In some cases, you may be asked to complete a second round interview.

• What will happen AFTER the interview?

  Regardless of whether you are selected for the position, you will be notified once a decision is made.

• As a new employee what do I need for my first day?

  You will need to bring two forms of identification in order to complete your required I9 form. Example: Drivers License, Social Security Card, Birth Certificate, Passport.

• If I have another job, do I need to report it?

  Yes, you must notify your supervisor of your outside employment and receive approval to continue the employment.

• What is the Department's dress code?

  DSS generally promotes a business casual dress code, appropriate to the performance of your duties.

• As a new employee will I serve a probationary period?

  Yes. The length of your probationary period is based on your job classification. Normally, probationary periods range from 6 months to 12 months.

• When is payday?

  You will be paid twice a month, generally on the 15th and the last working day of the month.

• What benefits do you offer?
  • Sick & Vacation Leave
  • 12 Paid Holidays
  • Medical Insurance
  • Dental Plan
  • Vision Plan
  • Life Insurance
  • Cafeteria Plan (Tax Savings)
  • Retirement Plan
  • Deferred Compensation
  • Worker’s Compensation Insurance
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Shareleave Program
  • Long-Term Disability
  • Family Leave
  • Employee Wellness Program
  • Educational Leave
  • Professional Development
  • Other Paid Leave
  • Social Security
  • Unemployment Insurance
  • Missouri State Employees' Credit Union
  • Missouri Saving for Tuition (MOST)
• What type of training is available for employees?

  DSS offers extensive training opportunities for employees in the areas of both professional and personal development.

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