Frequently Asked Questions: Human Resources

As a new employee, what do I need for my first day?

  • You will need to meet with the Human Resources office to complete your employee paperwork.
  • You will need to make sure you have submitted a department employment application and college transcripts.
  • I-9 Information for the Employment Eligibility Verification form.  A driver’s license, social security card, passport or appropriate visa. The department is unable to sponsor applicants in their application for work visas through INS.

Do you keep resumes/applications on file?

  • No, we do not keep resumes/applications on file.  It is necessary for you submit a
    new resume/application for each vacancy you apply for.

How often are DESE employees paid?

  • Department employees are paid bi-monthly on the 15th and the last working 
    day of the month.

How often do we advertise vacancies?

  • The department advertises vacancies at the end of each week.  The vacancy website
    is updated on Mondays.

If I am currently a state employee that is transferring to DESE, how much annual leave may I transfer?

  • The department accepts the amount of annual leave the employee is eligible to accrue in one (1) year.

What benefits do you offer?

  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Cafeteria Plan
  • Deferred Compensation Plan
  • Health Insurance
  • Dental Insurance
  • Vision Insurance
  • Life Insurance
  • Missouri State Employees Retirement System (MOSERS)
  • 12 Paid Holidays
  • Sick and Vacation Leave
  • Shared Leave Program
  • Parental Leave

What is the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE)?

  • The Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) is the administrative arm of the State Board of Education. It is primarily a service agency that works with educators, legislators, government agencies and citizens to maintain a strong public education system. Through its statewide school improvement initiatives and regulatory functions, DESE strives to assure that all citizens have access to high-quality public education.

What is the process once I submit my resume/application?

  • After your resume/application is submitted through our online application system, the hiring committee reviews each resume/application to determine if the applicant meets the minimum qualifications for the position. The committee then selects individuals for interviews. Applicants are then called to schedule an interview. Once a finalist is selected, approval from the division administrator is needed before an offer is made.

What is the timetable for this process?

  • The timetable for this process depends on the hiring committee’s schedule in order 
    to review and schedule interviews.