Alternative Hiring Process
DHRM in collaboration with the Department for Aging and Rehabilitative Services (DARS) has instituted the Alternative Hiring Process (AHP). The AHP was established as part of a comprehensive strategy to increase employment of individuals with disabilities within state government by providing a non-competitive path to state employment. AHP is an alternative application process in response to Code of Virginia § 2.2-1213, which went into effect July 1, 2022.
Program Highlights
- Applicants with documented disabilities, as determined by a Virginia Department for Aging and Rehabilitative Services (DARS) Certified Rehabilitation Counselor, are eligible for consideration through AHP.
- An AHP applicant must be certified as an individual with a documented disability resulting in a barrier to employment as determined by a DARS Certified Rehabilitation Counselor. If approved, the DARS Rehabilitation Counselor will provide a Certificate of Disability (COD) to the individual who can then submit their COD during application.
- Approved applicants may receive priority consideration during the recruitment process similar to that of a Veteran or State Layoff preference. Candidates that request priority consideration through the AHP should understand that their Certificate of Disability status will be made available to those evaluating candidates for this search.
Please note:
- This process will not replace the need for candidates and employees to request an accommodation through George Mason University’s ADA Coordinator at ada@gmu.edu, should one be needed for interviews or employment.
- The Alternative Hiring Process is considered for classified and wage positions only.
Alternative Hiring Process Applicants
Applicants with documented disabilities, as determined by a Virginia DARS Certified Rehabilitation Counselor, are eligible for consideration through the AHP. Approved applicants may receive priority consideration during the recruitment process. Candidates that request priority consideration through the AHP should understand that their Certificate of Disability status will be made available to those evaluating candidates for this search.
Are you requesting consideration as an Alternative Hiring Process certified applicant?
☐ Yes
☐ No
If selecting Yes, please attach a copy of your DARS Certificate of Disability.
Applicants must meet minimum qualifications in order to be considered for the position. The Alternative Hiring Process allows applicants, that present a DARS certification as part of the application process, to receive priority consideration/point(s). The AHP will not be used to move the applicant forward in the recruiting process if they do not meet minimum qualifications. Applicants who are also veterans will receive the AHP priority consideration, only. Multiple points for AHP consideration and veterans’ preference will not be given at this time.
Questions?
Please contact the Talent Acquisition team at jobs@gmu.edu for assistance.