Recruitment process
The following information has been produced to help provide applicants with a general insight to the recruitment process at West Berkshire Council and what to expect. If you have any questions, our recruitment team are available to assist - contact details are provided at the bottom of the page.
Check out our
vacancies page to search for a role that meets your interests.
Each of our adverts will have the job description and person specification attached, these will help you determine whether you think the role is right for you. It is especially important to review what the essential criteria is for this post. You should also find contact details within the advert for the recruiting manager should you wish to arrange an informal chat to find out further information about the role.
Apply via the electronic application form - please note unless stated in the advert, we do not accept CVs.
Once the closing date for the advert has passed, the recruiting manager will shortlist the applicants - interview invites will then be circulated. Unsuccessful candidates will be notified if their application will not be taken further on this occasion.
In some cases, candidates may be required to complete a test prior to their interview to assist the recruiting manager with their selection process. If this is required, you will be notified in advance with the all the necessary information.
After all interviews for the position have taken place, the successful applicant will be notified, usually be telephone, and offered the position. Unsuccessful applicants will be notified of the outcome via email or telephone and the recruiting manager will be happy to provide constructive feedback.
Once verbally accepting an offer, our HR department will write to the successful candidate formally confirming the job offer in writing. Following this, HR will then start collecting the successful candidates pre-employment checks, this will include:
- Confirmation of eligibility to work in the UK
- Two satisfactory employment references, one being from the most recent employer
- A satisfactory medical clearance
- Disclosure and Barring Service checks if applicable to the position
- Copies of any relevant professional qualifications
- Confirmation of any specific Registrations or Professional memberships related to the position
After all pre-employment checks have been sought and confirmed as satisfactory, your new line manager will be in contact to arrange a start date with you. Once this has been agreed, a contract of employment will be issued.
Equal Opportunities for all
As a Level 2 Disability Confident employer, West Berkshire Council is fully committed to supporting applicants with a Disability or additional needs. Our recruitment and selection processes can be tailored to implement any reasonable adjustments that an individual may require in order to apply for one of our positions. All applicants are given the option to advise whether they require any adjustments to the recruitment process, HR will then liaise with you to find a suitable solution.
In addition to the above, West Berkshire Council guarantees an interview to all disabled applicants who meet the minimum selection criteria for the job.
Selection for interviews and successful appointment is based solely on the qualifications, skills, experience, and abilities necessary to do the job.
Top tips for completing your application
- Carefully read the advert, job description and person specification
- Consider the essential criteria listed in the person specification and whether you meet this. Only applicants who can demonstrate they meet the essential criteria deemed necessary for the role will be shortlisted.
- Allow yourself plenty of time to complete your application before the advert closes.
- Do you have any questions about the role? Always contact the recruiting manager for an informal discussion.
- Strengthen your application by focusing on the requirements of the role and clearly demonstrate how you meet these.
- Ensure any gaps in employment are accounted for with an explanation of the reasoning behind this.
