The U.S. Census Bureau is gearing up to begin counting in 2020, and everyone counts, including people of all ages, races, ethnic groups, citizens and non-citizens.
Every ten years the US constitution mandates a headcount of everyone residing in the 50 states, Puerto Rico and US islands. This will be the 24th census and is very important for many reasons. The population totals determine:
• the number of seats each state has in the House of Representatives
• the redistricting of legislative and school district lines
• the federal funding your community gets
• areas eligible for housing assistance and rehabilitation loans
• assistance federal, tribal, state and local governments get in planning and implementing programs, services and emergency response
In 2010, only 66% of Clarke County participated in the Census count and was estimated at 16,732 people in the county.
Currently, census employees are going around communities verifying addresses. The actual count will begin in April 2020 when Census questionnaires will be mailed to every household. The Census can be filled out and mailed back in, taken by phone or now can be taken online. All data is completely confidential
If you are interested in a job with the US Census Bureau, apply online before the end of 2019 at 2020census.gov/jobs
2020 Census Job Qualifications
Your constituents may be eligible for Census Bureau positions if they:
• Are a U.S. citizen.
• Are at least 18 years old.
• Have a valid Social Security number.
• Have a valid e-mail address.
• Complete an application and assessment questions. (For some positions, the assess¬ment questions may be available in Spanish; however, an English Proficiency Test may also be required.)
• Are registered with the Selective Service System if they are a male born after December 31, 1959.
• Pass a criminal background check and a review of criminal records (including finger¬printing) as part of the Census Bureau’s hiring process.
• Do not engage in any partisan political activ¬ity while on duty.
• Have a current employment status that is (including law and regulatory enforcement jobs) compatible with Census Bureau employ¬ment (reviewed on a case-by-case basis).
• Are available to work flexible hours, including days, evenings, and/or weekends.
• Commit to completing training. (If offered a job, they will be paid for this training at a training pay rate.)
Most jobs require employees to:
--Have access to a vehicle and a valid driver’s license, unless public transportation is readily available.
--Have access to a computer with Internet and an e-mail account (to complete training).
Look weekly in The Clarke County Tribune for more information on the Census and how you can help.
