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Candidate Gateway is the Port of Seattle's online employment application system.
Please note the structure of the content. The top sections contain the questions, subdivided by topics. Each question is a link to a place lower down in the content, but on the same page. Clicking the question takes the page down to a restatement of the question, and its answer. At the end of each answer is a link reading "top." Clicking "top" returns to the top of the same page.
Below is a list of questions applicants frequently have during and after submitting an online application.
Creating a Login ID
Having Problems with My Computer
Updating/Changing My Personal Information (My Profile)
Applying for Jobs
Completing the Online Application
Testing / Driving
Application Status
Interviews and Hires
Current Port of Seattle Employees
Former Port of Seattle Employees
Requests for Reasonable Accommodation / Information for Disabled Applicants
If you have questions or encounter any difficulties completing your online application, please call our technical service desk, 206/787-3333, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. top
Candidate Gateway is the Port of Seattle's online employment application system. It allows you to view current positions at the Port and apply for job openings. top
I don’t have a computer at home. Where can I apply for Port of Seattle jobs?
You can access our online application system anywhere you access the Internet. This includes public libraries, community colleges, and Internet cafés. top
I don’t have a login. What do I do?
If this is your first visit to Candidate Gateway, after you have clicked on a job posting title and clicked the Apply Now button, use the Click Here to Register or Register Now links. You will be asked to enter registration information that includes creating a unique User Name and Password. You will also be asked to re-type the password to confirm your password is spelled and entered correctly. Both the User Name and Password are case sensitive. If you are returning to Candidate Gateway, your login is the User Name and Password you used at your last visit. top
I was in the middle of completing my online application, and I received an error message saying “This page contains both secure and nonsecure items. Do you want to display the nonsecure items?” When I clicked “yes” (or “no”), I received another error message.
This typically happens when a person uses his or her mouse or keyboard commands to move forward or backward between pages within the Candidate Gateway application. Instead, use the blue Previous or Next buttons to move from page to page within Candidate Gateway. top
Which Internet browsers do you support?
The most reliable browser to use with Candidate Gateway is Microsoft Internet Explorer, version 6.0 or later. We recommend using Internet Explorer.
If you do not have access to Internet Explorer, our tests have shown a few other browsers work reasonably well with Candidate Gateway:
The screen looks odd, and I can’t see the whole page. What is wrong?
Most likely your PC screen resolution is set to 800x600. For ease of use with Candidate Gateway, we recommend a screen resolution setting of 1024x768, with 1152x864 possibly yielding better viewing results. This setting is typically found under the “My Computer>Control Panel>Display>Settings>Screen Area” on most computers. top
I have recently moved and/or changed my name. How can I change the name, address, email addresses and/or phone numbers listed on my online application?
You can update your contact information at any time. To do so, return to Candidate Gateway, login to the system using your User Name and Password, and click on the My Profile link in the My Career Tools box. After updating your information, click the yellow Save button. top
How do I notify you of a change in address or phone number?
Login to Candidate Gateway and click the My Profile link in the My Career Tools box. From there, you may change your name, address, email addresses and/or phone numbers. top
Does the Port of Seattle accept paper applications?
No. Effective with the implementation of Candidate Gateway, all applications for employment at the Port of Seattle must be submitted online through Candidate Gateway.
An exception will be made, though, if a paper application would serve as a reasonable accommodation for an applicant who has a disability.
If you are an applicant in need of a reasonable accommodation in order to complete the online application or submit your application materials, please contact the Port of Seattle’s Human Resources and Development department at 206/787-3836. You may also contact the WA Relay Service (TTY) at 7-1-1 or 800/833-6388. top
How do I find out which jobs are available?
You do not have to sign in or register to look at our current job openings. From the main Candidate Gateway page, all current job openings are listed under Latest Job Postings. You may view additional job postings by clicking on the previous and next buttons. If all current job postings are displayed, these buttons are inactivated. Additionally, you can sort the list of jobs by clicking on any of the headers. For example, if you click on the “Job Title” heading, it will sort the openings in alphabetical order. top
New Users:
When you have clicked on a Job Title or job posting check box and clicked the Apply Now button, use the Click Here to Register or Register Now links that will appear. You will be prompted to create a User Name and Password. After you have created a unique login, you will be able to apply for job postings.
Returning Applicants:
Sign in using your User Name and Password. Click on the Job Title link or job posting check box and click the Apply Now button. top
How can I view more information about one of the jobs listed?
Click on the Job Title for a full description of the position. If you want to apply for that job, just click the Apply Now button on the posting. top
I applied for a job yesterday. I found another job online that I want to apply for today. Do I have to fill out all of my information again?
No. With Candidate Gateway, once you log in using your User Name and Password, Candidate Gateway will retrieve your application. Candidate Gateway will “remember” some of the information you have already provided; currently this includes any data you have input on your profile, preferences, education, work experience, references and language pages. Please verify that the pre-populated information is accurate. You will have the opportunity to add to or edit the pre-populated information for the new job opening. You will need to fill in your information on all of the other pages that do not pre-populate, and you must answer all of the application questions for each job opening. top
Can I enter an application for a position before the job is open?
No. Only job postings that are currently open will appear on Candidate Gateway under Latest Job Postings. If you anticipate a specific position becoming available, please return to Candidate Gateway frequently. top
I am now returning to apply for additional jobs and received a message saying “User Name already exists.”
If you have already created an account and are a returning applicant, please login to Candidate Gateway using your User Name and Password from your last visit under the Returning Applicant login box. If you cannot remember your User Name and / or Password, you will need to create a new User Name and Password. top
How do I submit attachments such as a cover letter, resume, internship learning objectives, transcripts, reference letters or letters of recommendation?
When you begin the online application, you are prompted to upload or copy-and-paste your resume. You can also apply without submitting a resume -- however you are encouraged to always include a resume, or re-use a resume you have saved in Candidate Gateway on a prior visit.
Additionally, some job postings may request supplemental questions, transcripts, or other documentation. Applicants will be instructed via the job posting when cover letters, transcripts, or other documents are part of the application process.
The documents need to be individual documents and should be uploaded separately.
At this time, we can only accept documents of the following types: plain text, Microsoft Word .doc, Adobe .pdf, or rich text format .rtf. We currently have a file size limit of 5 MB per document. Any files larger than the limit will not upload and will cause a file type error.
Applicants will need to submit their documents and complete the online application by the job posting closing date in order to be considered.
To upload documents, first note the Job ID of the posting for which you are applying. You can find the Job ID in two places: (1) It appears in the Job ID column of the Latest Job Postings box when you are searching for jobs. (2) It appears near the top of the job posting description, just under the Job Title.
After noting the Job ID, complete the online application for the job. Then return to Careers Home and click the Cover Letters and Attachments link in the My Career Tools box. Click the Add Attachments button and use the drop down arrow to select an appropriate attachment type. In the Attachment Purpose field, type in the Job ID. Click on the Add Attachment link. From there, you can click the Browse button and select your file from your computer to upload. When the file name is displayed, you can click the Upload button. When the file has been uploaded, you will see it listed. top
What if my resume and cover letter are not plain text, Microsoft Word, Adobe Acrobat (.pdf) or rich text format (.rtf) documents?
At this time, our system can only accept the following types of documents: plain text, Microsoft Word .doc, Adobe .pdf, or rich text format .rtf. You will need to convert your documents before uploading them to your application. top
The position I am applying for requires a certification, degree or license. Do I need to submit proof I possess it?
Yes. If you are applying for a position that requires a certificate, degree or license, you will be required to provide documentation of such during the selection process. Most of the time, the documentation will be required as part of the application process and instructions will be listed in the job announcement on how to submit it. A detailed job announcement can be found by clicking on the Job Title link under the latest job postings. For more information on how to submit supplemental documents, see the FAQ above called "How do I submit attachments such as a cover letter, resume, internship learning objectives, transcripts, reference letters or letters of recommendation?" top
In addition to applying online, would you recommend that I also forward my resume directly to the hiring department or to the Port's Human Resources and Development department?
No. The online application is the official way to apply for positions at the Port of Seattle. Applicants who forward resumes to Human Resources and Development or the hiring department will be redirected back to the online system. If a cover letter, resume or other documentation is an additional requirement to the online application for a position, it will be listed in the job announcement with instructions on how to submit it. top
I see there is a closing date for the job for which I am applying but no closing time. Does that mean I can submit my application at any time on the closing date?
You may submit your application up until 11:59 PM (Pacific Time) on the closing date. Applicants are STRONGLY encouraged not to wait until the last minute to submit their application for several reasons:
1) If you do not COMPLETELY finish your online application and click the Submit button prior to 12:00 midnight (Pacific Time), our system will not accept your application;
2) While our technical service desk does field questions on our help number (206/787-3333) at all hours, our business office staff is only available to answer your questions and offer assistance during regular business hours: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM Pacific Time, Monday - Friday. So, for a question fielded by our technical service desk that requires an answer from our business office staff--such as a question specifically about the job being advertised--you may not receive an answer until the next business day, during business hours, at the earliest.
3) It is impossible to predict technical difficulties on your end OR our end. Please do not wait until the last minute.
Late applications will not be accepted.top
Do I have a time limit on how long I can spend on each section of the application?
To protect the security of your data, the system will time out and log you out after 20 minutes of inactivity. Any unsaved work will be lost if you are timed out. For this reason, we encourage applicants to click the Save button frequently (every 5 minutes or so) while filling out the online application. Clicking Save also resets the 20 minute inactivity timer back to zero. top
Will I need to take a specialized test to be considered for a position?
Some jobs require a certain level of proficiency on a particular skill to continue through the selection process. Each job posting will identify any tests necessary. On the Careers Home page, click on the job title to display job description and test details. top
What are the requirements of the Port’s driving policy?
Some job openings require applicants to meet the requirements of the Port's driving policy. This information will be listed in the job posting. top
How do I know that you have received my application?
Once you agree to the conditions of employment and press the Submit button, you will receive a confirmation email (if you have provided a valid email address) within a few hours. top
Yes. You may view any application(s) that you have submitted by logging in and viewing your history by clicking My Applications on the My Careers Tools page. If you would like to print your application while viewing it, print it using your browser's Print command. Please note that applications may be archived or purged after a certain period of time. top
What happens after I apply for a position?
After submitting your online application, the My Applications window will display showing all of the jobs for which you have applied, including the one you just submitted. Additionally, your application status will change to Applied.
Online applications are reviewed during and after the posting closing date by staff of Human Resources and Development and the hiring department. Applicants who submit complete online applications and who meet the minimum education and experience requirements for the position, along with any other requirements, are competitively evaluated in order to select the most suitably qualified candidates for employment. Only those applicants who demonstrate the most closely related work experience, education and training will receive further consideration for employment. top
How will I be notified of my status?
You will be notified by email, and in some cases by phone or USPS mail, for changes in your status as an applicant. This includes notifications of being selected, invited for interviews, or screened out of further consideration. top
Is there a way to see a list of the positions for which I applied?
Yes, you may view a list of the positions you have applied for by returning to the Careers Home page and signing in (using your User Name and Password). Click on the My Applications link in the My Careers Tools box. You may sort the My Applications list by clicking on any of the headers. top
How quickly after applying may I be called for an interview?
The length of time it takes for applicants to be called for interviews or further testing, and ultimately to fill a vacancy, varies from department to department and position to position. Some searches last several weeks while others may take several months.
You will be notified by email, and in some cases by phone or USPS mail, when your status as an applicant changes. top
How can I increase my chances of being called for an interview?
Given the competitive nature of positions at the Port of Seattle, we strongly recommend that you target and apply only for those positions where your experience and qualifications closely meets the position’s requirements. Be sure to carefully read the job announcement and pay special attention to the experience and skills that are being sought as well as any requirements. Remember that your online application will only be considered for those positions where you meet the minimum requirements. Mass applying for positions that do not match your qualifications is not recommended for success. top
Do I need to submit a copy of my college transcripts? What about letters of reference?
Not unless you are instructed to do so in the posting description. top
When will my references be contacted?
Reference checks typically occur during the final stages of the selection process. Prior to a job offer, your employment and education will be verified; standard procedure is for Human Resources and Development to notify you prior to conducting reference checks. Some positions also require proof of licensure or certification and successful completion of a criminal history background check or post-offer health assessment. top
The job posting I viewed lists a specific salary range or pay rate. Is this negotiable?
Non-represented Range: The hiring range is between the minimum and midpoint of the compensation range and is based on the knowledge, skill, and experience of the successful candidate.What defines a current Port of Seattle employee?
A current Port employee is a person who is currently on the Port of Seattle payroll and receiving paychecks. This includes regular full-time and part-time employees as well as some temporary employees.
The Port of Seattle has many locations and contracts with a variety of companies. For example, if you are contracted through a temporary agency, you are not a Port of Seattle employee. You are a Port of Seattle employee if the company name on your paycheck states Port of Seattle. top
I'm a current Port employee. How should I apply?
Current Port employees should not use the Candidate Gateway Web site.
Instead, current Port employees should use their internal PeopleSoft userID, and login to PeopleSoft Employee Self Service using a Port-networked computer or VPN. Once logged into PeopleSoft, current Port employees should navigate to Self Service > Recruiting Activities > Careers to view and apply for jobs. top
I’m a current Port employee. Why don’t I see any internal postings listed?
Internal-only postings will not appear on the Candidate Gateway Web site. Internal-only postings will only appear when viewing job openings using Employee Self Service in PeopleSoft HCM.
In general, current Port employees should not use the Candidate Gateway Web site.
Instead, current Port employees, using a Port-networked computer or VPN, should login to PeopleSoft and navigate to Self Service > Recruiting Activities > Careers to view and apply for jobs. From Self Service, all jobs, including both external and internal-only openings, will appear and be available for application through Self Service. top
I am a former Port employee. How should I apply?
Use the Candidate Gateway Web site. In the application questionnaire, one of the questions asks if you are a former Port employee. You might also want to note your Port of Seattle employment history on your resume as well as within the online application. top
I am a person with a disability. How do I request a reasonable accommodation?
If you are an applicant in need of a reasonable accommodation in order to complete the online application or submit your application materials, please contact the Port of Seattle’s Human Resources and Development department at 206/787-3836. You may also contact the WA Relay Service (TTY) at 7-1-1 or 800/833-6388. top