Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Department of Economic Development?
The Department of Economic Development (DED) administers federal-funded and state-funded programs as assigned through legislation or by Gubernatorial order. Through these programs, DED works with local communities and businesses to help:

• Businesses create jobs
• Increase sales
• Find and train qualified workers
• Identify sites and obtain financial support for businesses to locate or expand in Missouri
• Promote capital investment and self-sufficiency of communities
• Attract tourists
• Promote and support the arts
• Refer qualified workers to business jobs
• Regulate Professions

How many people are employed by the Department of Economic Development?
Approximately 1650

Is the Department a merit or non-merit agency?
The department is made up of both merit and non-merit divisions.

What is the difference between merit and non-merit positions?
The primary difference is the selection process. Merit divisions must fill positions by using registers provided to them by the Office of Administration. Non-merit divisions do not work through the Office of Administration when filling positions. Some small differences also exist in the types of Personnel Advisory appeal rights employee's have. Classification, pay and time/leave issues are the same in both merit and non-merit divisions.

How often do we advertise open jobs?
As they become available.

How do I find out about job opportunities?

• By calling (573) 751-3916
• By accessing our web page
• Recruitment Resources (Other State Agencies, Colleges and Universities, etc.)
• Ads can be found in local newspapers in the area of the position
• MO Works
• Career Fairs Calendar Link

Do you keep resumes/applications on file?
Yes, resumes are kept on file for one year. It is necessary however, to submit a new resume for each vacancy you apply for.

What is the process once I submit my resume/application?
When we receive your resume or application in our office, we enter your information into our HR Tracking System. After the closing date, our recruiter reviews each resume/application to determine if the applicant meets the minimum qualifications for the position. The resumes are forwarded to the hiring manager/supervisor to review and select the individuals for interviews. Applicants' are then scheduled for the interview. Each applicant will be asked a series of questions and will be given the opportunity to address questions as well. Depending on the number of applicants, the department may contact individuals for second interviews to discuss more specific information. Once a finalist is selected a reference background check is completed. The position is offered contingent on a successful background check and a start date is determined. Applicants who are not selected are notified that the position has been filled.

Who reviews my resume/application and who will interview me?
For non-merit divisions, the department's recruitment coordinator reviews your resume and then all resumes are sent to the hiring manager for review and selection.

What is the timetable for this process?
While the department attempts to fill vacancies in a timely fashion, this process may be lengthy at times. We ask for your patience and cooperation during this time. We receive many resumes/applications for our positions and attempt to fill vacancies as quickly as possible.

Will I be contacted when the position I applied for is filled?
Yes, you will be contacted by mail.

Whom should I contact if I possess special accessibility needs?
For assistance with any phase of the department process, please contact our Recruitment Coordinator at(573) 751-3916. Reasonable attempts will be made to accommodate special needs.

As a new employee what do I need for my first day?
You will need to bring two forms of identification. Example: Drivers License, Social Security Card, Birth Certificate, Passport in order to complete your required I9 form.

If I am currently a state employee that is transferring to DED, how much annual leave may I transfer?
The department generally accepts a maximum of 80 hours of annual leave.

What is the Department dress code?
The department promotes a business casual dress code, however this may vary depending on the division.

As a new employee will I serve an introductory period?
Yes, each employee serves a six-month introductory period, unless other arrangements have been made.

How often are DED employees paid?
Effective April 1, 2001 all DED employees are paid semi-monthly.

What benefits do you offer?

• Employee Assistance Program
• Cafeteria Plan
• Education Reimbursement
• Health Insurance
• Life Insurance
• Retirement
• 12 Paid Holidays
• Sick & Vacation Leave
• Leave Share Program
• Department Paid Training
• MOST Program
• Deferred Compensation

What type of training is available for employees?
Various training opportunities are available through the department. We offer training under the following headings: Supervisory, Project Management, Communication, Technical/Computer and General. Employees may also request any type of training by first discussing it with their manager and then contacting their HR representative.