1. Classified ServiceThe first step is to take and pass a civil service examination for a title in your area of interest.  Civil service exams are specific to a job or a class of jobs (for example, there might be a specific test for an air conditioning mechanic, 

but one clerical test might suit for 10 or 12 different titles), and are scheduled as a previous eligible list expires or diminishes as people are hired from it. Jobs which require civil service exams are referred to as being in the "classified" service.

2. Non-Classified ServiceLook for a position that does not require a Civil Service examination, known as a "non-classified" position.  Usually these jobs are filled by people with specific professional licenses or have other special qualifications. While these jobs may be

available without an examination, you may not have all the protections afforded an employee in the classified service.

New York's government is divided into three branches: – Executive Branch — Consists of all state departments, agencies, offices, councils, authorities, and commissions that report to the Governor. – Legislative Branch — Consists of the Senate and Assembly.

– Judiciary Branch — Consists of the Court of Appeals, the Apellate Division, The Court Administration Division, and the State Supreme Court.

Civil service examinations are scheduled and resultant eligible lists are administered by the NYS Department of Civil Service, a separate state agency. The Department also administers the civil service exam system for a number of localities (e.g., counties and cities) within the state.

These exams are specific to a job or a class of jobs (for example, there might be a specific test for an air conditioning mechanic, but one clerical test might suit for 10 or 12 different titles), and are scheduled as a previous eligible list expires or diminishes as people are hired from it.

You may also want to view the "Continuous Recruitment Examination Announcements," as a number of these require "Minimum Education or Experience." Jobs in this category include Keyboard Specialist, Information Technology Specialist, Food Service Worker, Motor Equipment Mechanic.