Hiring Process | Region of Waterloo

Wondering how our hiring process works? Here’s what to expect when you apply for a job at the Region of Waterloo. Click a question below to see the details.

1. Where can I view current job openings?

Check out the Job Postings section for current openings. Stay in the loop by joining our Talent Network. You can do this by entering your email on the page linked above.

2. How can internal employees apply?

Important: to be considered as an internal candidate you must apply through the People First Hub during the internal posting period. Internal employees can still apply through the external careers page, however, you will show up as an external candidate.

3. What if I don’t receive confirmation? (and what to do)

If you don’t receive a confirmation email after applying, first check your junk or spam folder. You can also log in to your candidate profile to make sure your application was successfully submitted. If you don’t see your application listed, try applying to the position again to ensure it’s received.

1. How do I apply for a job?

To apply for a job, start by creating a profile on our Career Opportunities site. If you already have an account, simply sign in with your email and password (case sensitive). New to the site? Create an account to access and apply to our career opportunities.

2. How do I update my application?

To update your application as an external candidate, sign in to your Career Opportunities site profile, find your submitted application, and make any changes or upload updated documents.

3. Can I apply for multiple jobs?

Yes! You can apply to multiple positions, but be sure to submit an updated tailored resume, and optional cover letter for each to showcase your most relevant experience.

4. If a job is reposted, do I need to reapply?

Yes. A separate application is required for each competition/posting. Please note that if you were previously unsuccessful in the recruitment process, the Region reserves the right to exclude your application for subsequent related positions.

1. What can I expect from an interview?

Depending on the role, you may meet with a small panel that includes the hiring manager, another leader, and/or an HR representative. Expect behavioural-based questions that ask you to share real examples; what you did, how you did it, and the results you achieved.

Additional testing or assignments may be part of the process. The Region may verify any information provided in your application or interview.

2. How am I contacted?

The Region first reaches out via email so please ensure you are checking your junk/spam inbox for our correspondence. If we do not hear back via email, we will reach out via phone call.

3. When will I hear back / invited to next steps?

Due to the high volume of applications, only those selected for an interview will be contacted by email. Be sure to check your spam or junk folder—especially if you use Gmail or Hotmail.

References and due diligence

What due diligence is required?

You will be required to provide two to three recent supervisory references, unless another arrangement has been approved by your Talent Acquisition Partner. Colleagues and non-direct reporting managers will not be accepted as references. Education credentials will be verified as part of the recruitment process to confirm they meet the requirements outlined in the job posting.

What are the requirements for a driver’s abstract, driver's license, or police check? (if applicable)

Any candidate for a Regional position which requires the operation of a vehicle must provide proof that they hold a valid Ontario driver's licence in the appropriate class and endorsement. In addition, they must have an acceptable driver's abstract and/or Commercial Vehicle Operator's Registration (CVOR) abstract. To be acceptable, the abstract must:

Be current (i.e. within the preceding 60 days)

Have no more than two demerit points*

Have no more than one conviction for the same or similar offence in the preceding three years*

Have no driving-related Criminal Code convictions

Have no "non-medical" or "administrative" licence suspensions in the preceding three years

Have no convictions for driving while operating a handheld device in the preceding two years

Have no at-fault collisions recorded on the CVOR abstract in the preceding two years as indicated by improper driver action or driver condition

Please note that the above conditions differ for Paramedic Services. For these candidates, the abstract must have no more than four demerit points and no more than two convictions for the same or similar offence in the preceding three years.

Out-of-province candidates must provide a letter which authorizes the Fleet/Training Safety Advisor to access out-of-province abstracts covering the three years preceding the job application. Once the candidate has possession of a licence issued by the province of Ontario, the Region will run an Ontario abstract.

Any candidate for a Regional position which requires the operation of heavy equipment must be able to demonstrate their competency, functional knowledge of, and demonstrated skill, ability, and proficiency in the safe operation for the specific equipment they will operate; and have a DZ driver's license, or where applicable in the job description, obtain a DZ driver’s license within the probationary period of their employment.

Any candidate for student positions requiring operation of vehicles must hold a minimum "G2" class licence and must have at least three years of driving experience (G1+G2).

Candidates for a Regional position requiring operation of a vehicle, or light lawn maintenance equipment, must hold a minimum class G2 licence and three years driving experience, or a full class G licence.

Other questions

How can I request an accommodation during the recruitment stage, onboarding, training, or while performing my role?

The Region of Waterloo is committed to providing an accessible and inclusive workplace where all employees can succeed. If you require accommodations at any stage of your employment, whether during onboarding, training, or while performing your role, please let us know. Your hiring manager will reach out prior to your start date to discuss the role, workspace, and typical workday to ensure you have the support you need to be successful. Accommodations are flexible and may be adjusted as your needs or role evolve. All discussions regarding accommodations are confidential, focused on supporting your success, and respect your choice about what, if any, personal information you wish to share. For questions or to request accommodations during your onboarding or employment, please contact abilitiesmanagement@regionofwaterloo.ca.

If I need to withdraw my application, what do I do?

If you need to withdraw your application, do so through People First Hub. If you’ve reached the interview stage, also let your Talent Acquisition Partner know.

Collective agreements

See the collective agreements that apply to different Region of Waterloo staff positions