People seeking employment with the city of La Vergne will no longer have to contend with delivering written applications in person, rather they can now do it all online.

The city opted for the service provided by NEOGOV, the largest human resources application system in the nation used by more than 900 municipalities, counties, and other government entities.  Both the city and job applicants will benefit from NEOGOV’s online applicant portal.

Job seekers applying for city positions can create an individual user account, pick a private password, and select various job categories of interest.  If a desired position becomes available in a job category, they will be notified by email. 

For the city, the NEOGOV system will automatically sort each applicant profile based on educational background, work experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities.  The city will have the ability to maintain an application for at least a 12-month period.  This comprehensive system also has a performance review component and an electronic on-boarding process that will enable the City to more effectively manage the new hire orientation process, confirm training and track equipment.

The system cost $12,400, but the return on the investment will be quick.  “Cost savings are estimated to break even in the first 12 months with a minimum of 1,040 man-hours saved every year,” said Fred Gaston, director of human resources.  “Time is saved because NEOGOV allows hiring personnel to use the system to create openings, post jobs online, communicate to every user that their applications are received, next steps in the process, etc.  Plus the city can gain job-specific detailed information about whether the skill level of the job seeker matches the skills required for each job.”

For now, paper applications are being accepted but effective July 6, 2012, all applications must be done online. If computer access is not readily available to applicants, they can go to the La Vergne Public Library and use one of 20 computers available for adults. Additionally, the Tennessee Career Center also makes computers available for all job seekers and will provide personal assistance as needed.