When someone says they are a civil service employee or a civil servant, it means that person works for a government agency, whether it be federal, state, or local. Each government entity is responsible for its own employment system, takes care of its own personnel needs, and engages in different hiring practices.

Civil Service Exams once were more common for jobs in the federal government, but they were phased out decades ago because of concerns about discrimination. Some jobs still include a test as part of the application process. Such jobs include law enforcement, air traffic control, and postal service jobs, according to the Federal Government Jobs' website.

For the most part, the hiring process for government jobs is much like it is in any other profession. Jobs are posted internally and/or externally, and the application process usually includes a cover letter, a resume, and an application, usually filled out online. Finalists for interviews are selected from that standard practice.

For more information, watch the attached Slide Show or go to the Civil Service Website.