Civil service staff warn of heavy workload, hiring and exam-scheduling challenges as senior clerk departs

Senior civil service staff told the Saratoga Springs Civil Service Commission on Jan. 29 that the office faces a significant workload and knowledge-transfer task after the upcoming departure of senior clerk Rachel De Oliveira, and that an unusually dense state exam schedule is increasing pressure on local administration.

Carissa Salvo, staff coordinator, described De Oliveira as "not replaceable," saying the knowledge she has accumulated since 2021 is substantial and that the office plans to hire a part-time senior clerk with an overlap period so De Oliveira can train her replacement. Salvo said the city has a funded part-time line for the position in the 2025 budget and that the commission should expect a hands-on training period before De Oliveira leaves.

Why it matters: The civil service office administers hiring exams, eligibility lists and certifications that city departments…