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1. How often are job listings updated?

We update job listings when positions come open. You can be automatically notified if you fill out a job interest card.  

There are now two different ways to be notified when job openings at Whatcom County become available.  

To be notified when a job opens in a particular job category, visit the Job Categories page, select which category(ies) you are interested in, click the green Subscribe button, and complete the job interest card.

To be notified when a job opens in a particular job title, visit the Job Descriptions page, click the title of the job you want, click the green "Subscribe" button in the upper right corner, and complete the job interest card.

*For current County employees only: internal postings will continue to be posted on the existing Internal Jobs page, and if you have subscribed, you will continue to receive notifications of internal postings.  If you haven't already subscribed to be notified of new internal postings, follow the directions at the top of the Internal Notify Me page to subscribe to the Human Resources - Internal Jobs News Flash. 

2. Can I apply for positions not listed?

No. We only accept applications for positions that are open for recruitment. We do not accept unsolicited resumes. See open positions here:

Current Job Openings

3. Should I include a resume and a cover letter?

Review the job announcement and follow those instructions. A completed County job application is most important. If you do attach a resume to your online application, do not type "see resume" in sections of your application because this may render your application incomplete.

4. Do you keep previous applications on file or do I turn in a new application each time?

No, we don't keep applications in a general file. Please submit a Whatcom County application and any supplemental materials for each position to which you wish to apply. You can use a photocopy of a previous application if you update the position title, date, and original signature.

5. If a position is posted a long time, are you still accepting applications?

Yes. We accept applications through the closing date for listed jobs. If a listing says "on-going recruitment," we will accept applications until the position is closed. See open positions here:

Current Job Openings

6. What happens after I submit in my application?

You will get a confirmation message and email that your application has been submitted. Human Resources screens and forwards applications to the hiring department. The hiring department will contact you directly if you are selected to test and interview.

7. Do I need to be a U.S. Citizen to work for Whatcom County?

Yes, for Law Enforcement positions (also must be at least 21 years of age). For other positions, Whatcom County hires individuals legally authorized to work in the United States. All new employees must show authorization to work in the United States and verify identity. Whatcom County participates in E-Verify.

8. If I applied for a position, will I receive an interview?

Not necessarily. We receive many applications for positions and extend interviews to a narrowed field of candidates based on qualifications in the context of other applications received.

9. What benefits do you offer to your employees?

Whatcom County offers excellent benefits for regular employees including medical, dental and vision coverage for employees and their family, plus life insurance for employees. Other benefits include generous paid leave and an average of 12 paid holidays per year. County employees participate in the Washington State Retirement System (DRS) with contributions from the County and the employee. An Employee Assistance Program for employees and household members is also available.