The City of Long Beach has announced the implementation of its Local Hiring Preferences, in an effort to cultivate a workforce with a deeper connection to its citizenry.
Through this initiative, Long Beach aims to reduce barriers to employment, build local pathways to public service careers and further commit to Opportunity, equity, inclusivity and mutual investment in the city’s future. Across the City’s 23 departments there are more than 500 unique job opportunities, spanning from entry level to advanced positions.
“Measure JB, the Long Beach Jobs Promise, laid the groundwork for stronger local hiring and economic opportunity,” said Mayor Rex Richardson in a public statement. “By hiring local, we’re committed to fostering a workforce rooted in community and equity, giving residents and the next generation of public servants the chance to build meaningful careers while making a real impact in their hometown.”
Through the Local Hiring Preferences, eligible Long Beach residents, graduates of local institutions, international candidates, and those who have completed internships and apprenticeships will be given preference points in the hiring process.
Applicants must fill out the Local Hiring Preferences Questionnaire, which is also now a mandatory element of the job application process for classified positions, to determine eligibility and receive preference points.
Candidates must meet the minimum requirements screening and pass any required assessment prior to receiving preference points. Local preference points will be given along with the City’s existing veterans’ preference points for veterans, disabled veterans, spouses of disabled veterans and un-remarried spouses of deceased veterans.
Preference points can improve a candidate’s ranking on an eligible list, but does not guarantee selection or advancement in the hiring process, with the hiring department ultimately making decisions based on interviews, references and additional factors.
“We are committed to investing in the people who make our community strong. By prioritizing local talent, we’re not only filling positions with skilled, passionate individuals, but also fostering economic growth and deeper community connections,” said Bryce M. Tyler, Director of the Long Beach City Human Resources (HR) Department, in a public statement.
Eligibility criteria, verification requirements, answers to frequently asked questions, job resources and current openings can be found on the City’s Jobs webpage at longbeach.gov/jobs. To learn more about the City’s HR Department, visit longbeach.gov/hr.
