Orange County shifts attorney hiring process to competitive civil service exams

The Orange County Personnel and Compensation Committee convened on April 14, 2025, to discuss significant changes in the hiring process for civil service positions, particularly for attorney roles within the county. The meeting highlighted the transition to a more structured and competitive selection process aimed at enhancing the quality of candidates.

During the session, committee members acknowledged the challenges faced in implementing these changes, particularly for the attorneys involved. The discussion emphasized the importance of experience, with a mandatory requirement of ten years for applicants to qualify for attorney positions. This requirement is part of a broader effort to ensure that only the most qualified candidates are considered.

The committee also detailed the new testing mechanism, which will utilize a training and experience exam format. This approach allows candidates to provide comprehensive details about their qualifications, which will be scored by the state civil service. The more information candidates provide, the higher their potential score, thereby increasing their chances of being ranked among the top candidates.

Additionally, the committee noted that the selection process will allow for the top three candidates to be presented for final selection, ensuring that the most qualified individuals are chosen for the roles. This method, while not common in Orange County, aligns with practices seen in other jurisdictions.

The meeting concluded with a unanimous agreement on the new hiring procedures, marking a significant step towards improving the county's civil service recruitment process. The committee expressed optimism that these changes would lead to a more effective and independent selection of personnel in the future.