2017-03 Performance Audit Report: County of Hawai'i's Department of Human Resources Hiring Practices

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■ 4 instances within three departments (P&R, DPW, and Finance) where a new hire selection was made prior to DHR sending the referred list. These errors suggest that while DHR requires departments to submit a skill set with the RTF, DHR does not actually validate the department's interview and selection process to ensure procedures were appropriately followed and to ensure compliance with the merit principle. Individually errors or inconsistencies may not be significant. However, when combined, they demonstrate that policies and procedures are not adequately followed, or understood, as well as a lack of monitoring by management. These errors, combined with the potential interference of the SRC, may result in various consequences. At the very least, the County may not hire the most qualified candidate for vacant positions. What are the consequences? As an Equal Opportunity Provider and Employer, the County of Hawai "i follows and adheres to all federal and state laws concerning non-discrimination in the employment of individuals and in its delivery of services to the public. Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) means that all people regardless of gender, race, color, age, marital or parental status, sexual reference, disability or religious belief have the right to be given fair consideration for a job. By not following state laws and regulations, as well as the County's written policies and procedures, the County cannot ensure equitable, uniform, and transparent hiring practices. As a result, not all potential candidates can be or were afforded an equal opportunity. Furthermore, when County departments do not consider all employment applications and bypass eligible candidates, it may create potential discrimination issues. Finally, if the County cannot clearly demonstrate an equitable, uniform, and transparent process, there are perceptions and potential effects that may include, but not be limited to: • appearance of or actual preferential treatment of candidates; • new hires are not the most qualified candidate to perform the essential job duties; • low employee morale and high employee turnover; • potential litigation; and/or • loss of public trust in County government. Why did this happen.? Department of Human Resources is responsible for administering the civil service system based on the merit principle. They also help ensure departments comply with applicable civil service Audit Results 14 1 P a g e