Diversity Talent Pool
The Diversity Talent Pool (DTP) is an initiative aimed at fostering an inclusive and diverse public service workforce that is reflective of PEI’s diverse population. Designed as an interactive database, the DTP provides a pool of qualified candidates from diverse backgrounds who are registered with the Public Service Commission’s Diversity Employment Program (DEP).
Below are frequently asked questions about the DTP and DEP and related processes!
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I register in the DTP?
To find out if you are eligible, how the DEP works, or to review services offered by the program, please click here.
What happens after I apply?
Once you have submitted a complete application and meet the eligibility criteria for the DEP, you will be automatically registered with the DTP. Your file will remain active for 1 year. You can notify the DEP if your employment situation changes via email diversity@gov.pe.ca (e.g. if you get a job, acquire a work permit, or complete your studies etc.).
You will also be contacted via email within ten business days after submitting your application to schedule a personal meeting with the PSC Diversity and Inclusion Consultant or a Staffing Consultant. The meeting's purpose is to discuss education, experience, immigration status, language proficiency, foreign credentials (if applicable), and how to prepare and submit a job application.
How do I prepare for the written test and/or interview?
When you are invited for an interview, you will be notified about the type of assessment that you will undertake, which may vary based on the position, from a written test to presentations to case studies etc.
Interviews are conducted by a diverse selection panel of two to three members, which typically include a representative from the Public Service Commission, the supervisor of the position, and an employee with expertise in the field for which you are applying. During an interview, a candidate is assessed on their education, experience, knowledge, skills, abilities etc.
Here are some useful tips to help you prepare for the interview:
- Review as much information as possible regarding the job requirements. If you want to view the job description or position questionnaire for the position you are interviewing for, you may request it from the Department's Human Resource Officer.
- Based on a job description, anticipate and prepare for some answers to questions you might be asked at the interview. Think about times when you have demonstrated the required skills and some specific examples you can share.
- Find out more about the organization (department) in general to better understand the services and programs it provides.
- Think about questions you may want to ask at the interview.
- You may contact the PSC Diversity and Inclusion Consultant (diversity@gov.pe.ca) for further interview tips and preparations, or you may choose to use the Public Service Commission’s Preparing For The Interview resource.
How will qualified candidates be selected and notified?
If you are registered and meet the stated qualifications and requirements for casual and temporary positions, you may be contacted by the Public Service Commission for a written test or interview.
After interviewing and/or testing, you will be notified if you are the successful candidate for the job and offered casual or temporary position under the Diversity Employment Program.
I did not get the job, who can I contact to get feedback on the interview and/or testing?
If you are interviewed for a job and would like feedback on how you performed, you may contact the Staffing Consultant who invited you for the interview. They can provide feedback that could be helpful in the future when you are invited for another interview.
When is a reference check conducted?
If you are a candidate under closer consideration, reference checks will be conducted, and you will be notified accordingly.
References need to be current and from people who have supervised your work, whether it be a paid or voluntary position.
Do I require a criminal background check to register with the DTP?
A criminal background check is not required to register with the DTP. However, this is a conditional occupation requirement for all successful job applicants with the Government of Prince Edward. If you are a successful candidate, your human resources manager or supervisor will advise you on how to obtain one.
Is there a fee to register for DTP or apply for jobs?
No, there is no fee to register for DEP or DTP.
I need support to complete the online application form or require more information about the DTP, how can I get help?
Where possible, submitting an electronic application is preferred. If you require assistance to complete the online application, you can reach the DEP through email diversity@gov.pe.ca or telephone 902-368-4184. A staff person will respond to your questions and/or may schedule an in-person/virtual meeting to discuss your qualifications and offer personalized employment support.
I have a disability and require special assistance. Do I have to indicate this on my application?
You can voluntarily self-identify when submitting your job/DEP application. If you are invited for an interview and require special assistance (accommodation), please advise the staff person booking the interview/ test about special assistance you may require, e.g., wheelchair accessible testing/interview room or use of assistive technology to complete your interview or written test etc.
Do all positions require proficiency in both French and English language?
No. However, some positions require fluency in both English and French (bilingual positions). The requirement for proficiency in either or both languages will be determined by a position’s duties and responsibilities. Your level of proficiency in French will be assessed by the PEI Public Service Commission’s French Language Services.
Does the Public Service Commission hire for positions that require proficiency in other languages other than English and French?
Multilingualism is an asset that the Public Service Commission seeks to leverage. Our province’s population has become increasingly diverse and interconnected. Where the need to offer services in languages other than English and French is identified, a department or agency may seek applicants fluent in languages other than English and French. For example, employees with diverse linguistic skills have been employed by Access PEI among other government departments and agencies.
Can I apply to other open competitions posted on JobsPEI even when I am registered with DTP?
Yes. We strongly encourage you to continue applying for any jobs “Open to the Public” posted on JobsPEI that you meet the minimum qualifications for.
Where possible, submitting an electronic resume or job application is preferred. Otherwise, please return Employment Form to PEI Public Service Commission, P.O. Box 2000, Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island, C1A 7N8. Applications may be sent by fax to 902-368-4383.
Note: IT IS THE RESPONSIBILITY OF THE APPLICANT TO CONFIRM RECEIPT OF THE APPLICATION, BY TELEPHONE OR IN PERSON PRIOR TO THE CLOSING DATE. Please ensure that the appropriate Posting ID number is stated on all application forms. You can apply online or obtain an application form by visiting our web site at www.jobspei.ca. Forms may also be obtained by contacting any PEI Government office, ACCESS PEI Centre, Regional Services Centre, or by telephone 902-368-4080.
Is there a deadline to apply for jobs?
Yes, there is a certain time limit to apply for each job application. When reviewing job postings, confirm the “closing date and time” for the position you are interested in.
Where can I find student summer employment opportunities?
Student and youth employment opportunities are posted under “Student Opportunities” on JobsPEI.
What other employment assistance services are available in Prince Edward Island?
You can view the full list of external service providers who assist job seekers in preparing to obtain meaningful employment here.
I want to acquire a high school diploma/secondary school certificate or upgrade my marks, where do I start?
Please visit the Department of Workforce, Advanced Learning and Population for more information on how you can upgrade your high school marks and the eligibility criteria to write the General Education Development (GED) test (now called Canadian Adult Education Credential (CAEC).
What does “demonstrated equivalencies will be considered' mean on the job posting?
It refers to alternative training, experience, skills, abilities among other qualifications that may be considered for the position in lieu of formal education as per the UPSE Civil Service Qualification Equivalency Framework Guidelines.
What is a related degree when none are specified in a job posting?
A degree from a recognized post-secondary institution that is related or similar to the knowledge required for the position.
I am an internationally educated professional, where can I get my education credentials assessed?
Depending on why you need your education credentials assessed (work or study), you may contact one of the designated service providers to have your academic credentials attained outside Canada assessed.
Do I need to be licensed to work in my profession in PEI?
Many occupations in the public sector (regulated or non-regulated) require education, skills and experience that meet the job requirements. You may need a license, certificate, or apprenticeship before you can work in your profession or trade. If this is a requirement for any job posting “open to the public,” it will be stated as part of the minimum qualifications. If the occupation is regulated, the job applicant is responsible for obtaining the right documentation.
For more information on occupation licensing and regulations, contact the respective regulatory authority/professional association or search the Canadian Information Centre for International Credentials database for more information. Please note that this list is not exhaustive.
Where do I get information on eligibility to work in Canada?
For information and resources on immigrating and working in Canada and Prince Edward Island, please click here.
How can I find information about respective government departments?
You can find more information about a specific government department here.
What steps are involved in the hiring process?
Review steps followed in the hiring process here.
Are all Government of PEI jobs unionized?
Most positions within the PEI Government, Health PEI and Public Schools Branch are represented by a union. The job advertisement will indicate if a position is unionized and if so, by which bargaining unit (e.g. UPSE, PEINU, CUPE, IUOE, PEITF). Where a position is identified as “Excluded,” it would not be represented by a union/bargaining agent.
Contact information:
Diversity Employment Program
Staffing, Classification and Organizational Development
105 Rochford Street
PO Box 2000, Charlottetown
Prince Edward Island
Canada, C1A 7N8
Telephone: 902-368-4184
Fax: 902-368-4383
E mail: diversity@gov.pe.c