Hiring and promotion preference information and instructions Veterans Preference and State Servicemembers

In accordance with Oregon law, qualified veterans may be eligible for Veterans’ Preference in public employment.

In accordance with Oregon law, qualified state servicemembers and veterans may be eligible for hiring and promotion preference in public employment.

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In accordance with Oregon law, state servicemembers and veterans who meet the minimum qualifications and any special qualifications for a position may be eligible for (hiring and promotion preference in public employment.

  • To Apply for Hiring and Promotion Preference with Multnomah County
  • For State Servicemembers and Veterans Qualified for Hiring and Promotion Preference
  • Accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act

In accordance with Oregon law, state service members and veterans who meet the minimum qualifications and any special qualifications for a position may be eligible for hiring and promotion preference in public employment.

Keep in mind:

  • Individuals may receive either 5 points as a qualified state servicemember or veteran (non-disabled) or 10 points as a qualified disabled veteran, but not both.
  • If there is not a scored exam in a selection process, we will apply another method of preference as required for those who qualify.
  • Hiring and promotion preference will not be awarded without the appropriate documentation. See details, below.
  • There is no limit to the number of times you can use this preference.
  • However, you must submit required documentation for each recruitment process in which you are claiming hiring and promotion preference, even if you have submitted documentation before.
  • Individuals are also eligible for preference if they are current service members or current Oregon National Guard members who submit certification showing they will be discharged or released within 120 days.

To Apply for Hiring and Promotion Preference with Multnomah County:

Multnomah County has an online job application process. Have your documentation ready to upload during the application process. There will be a screen to request a preference and attach supporting documentation.

You have the option to apply for 5 points State Servicemember, or Veteran or 10 points (Disabled Veteran). Refer to definitions and required proof, below.

 

State Servicemember (5 Points): 1. You are a current member of the Oregon National Guard. 2. You are a former member of the Oregon National Guard who was discharged or released under honorable conditions. 3. You are a current Oregon National Guard member who submits certification showing you will be discharged or released within 120 days.

*You must provide proof of eligibility by submitting:

  • The National Guard Report of Separation and Record of Service (federal NGB Form 22); or
  • Certification that you are expected to be discharged or released from the Oregon National Guard under honorable conditions not later than 120 days after submission.

Veteran (5 Points):

You must have served on active duty in the Armed Forces of the United States (US):

  1. For more than 90 consecutive days beginning on or before January 31, 1955; or
  2. For more than 178 consecutive days beginning after January 31, 1955; or
  3. For 178 days or less and has a disability rating from the US Department of Veteran’s Affairs; or
  4. For at least one day in a combat zone; or
  5. Received a combat or campaign ribbon or an expeditionary medal for service in the Armed Forces.
  6. You are receiving a non-service connected pension from the US Department of Veterans Affairs.
  7. You submit certification that you are expected to be discharged or released from active duty under honorable conditions within 120 days.

To qualify under #1-5 and #7 above you must have been discharged or released under honorable conditions or be within 120 days of such discharge.

*You must provide proof of eligibility by submitting:

  • A copy of your DD214/DD215 form (documentation must include character discharge to qualify under #1-5 above); or
  • A copy of the Retirement Accounting Statement (federal DA Form 5016); or Certification from your command showing you will be discharged or released from active duty under honorable conditions within 120 days.
  • To qualify under #6, provide a letter from the US Department of Veterans Affairs indicating you receive a non-service connected pension.

Disabled Veteran (10 Points):

You must be:

  1. A person whose discharge or release from active duty was for a disability incurred or aggravated in the line of duty; or
  2. Have a disability rating from the US Department of Veterans Affairs; or
  3. Awarded the Purple Heart for wounds received in combat.
  4. A person who submits certification that you are expected to be medically separated from active duty under honorable conditions within 120 days.

**You must provide proof of eligibility by submitting:

  • A copy of your DD214/DD215 form; and
  • A copy of your veterans' disability preference letter from the Department of Veterans Affairs; or
  • Certification from your command showing you are expected to be medically separated within 120 days.

For additional information or questions regarding definitions contact the Oregon Department of Veterans Affairs at 800.692.9666.

For State Servicemembers and Veterans Qualified for Hiring and Promotion Preference:

Review the job posting for any position that interests you to learn important information about minimum qualifications and any special qualifications. If you believe you have skills that would transfer well and/or special qualifications that relate to the position you are applying for, please list those skills and/or qualifications on your application. Clearly explain how those skills and/or qualifications are applicable.

Accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act:

We gladly provide reasonable accommodation to anyone whose specific disability prevents them from completing an application or participating in a recruitment process. Please contact the recruiter listed on the job posting in advance to request assistance. Individuals with hearing or speech impairments may contact the recruiter through the Telecommunications Relay Service by dialing 711.

Last reviewed January 29, 2026