Statement of Purpose

The Civil Service Commission for the City of West Des Moines is a professional oversight group established under Chapter 400 of the Iowa Code. Our goal is to ensure fair and efficient public service that protects the interests of both the City and its employees.

Commitment to Fairness

We strictly follow all federal and state laws regarding equal opportunity. No person will be favored or discriminated against based on age, race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, marital status, national origin, disability, genetic information, or veteran status.

Current Commission Members

The following residents currently serve on the Commission:

  • Kevin Flagg
  • Emily Bartekoske
  • Andi Lipman

If you are a resident interested in joining, you may apply for future Commission openings.

Questions for the Commission?

Call 515-222-3616 with any questions about the Civil Service Commission.

Employees Covered by Civil Service

Per the Iowa Code, civil service positions include all full-time Police Officers and Firefighters, and most other full-time City employees.

The following positions are NOT covered by Civil Service:

  1. The Mayor, City Council, and appointed vacancies.
  2. City Clerk, Deputy City Clerk, City Attorneys, Treasurer, Assessor, Auditor, Licensed Engineers, and Health Officers.
  3. City Manager, Assistant City Manager, and Department Directors (except Police and Fire Chiefs).
  4. Principal Secretary to the City Manager or Department Directors.
  5. Employees of Boards or Commissions (such as the Library).
  6. Positions funded by temporary grants (less than one year).
  7. Part-time, seasonal, or temporary employees.

Civil Service Examinations

If you meet the minimum qualifications for a job designated as Civil Service, you will be scheduled for an exam. This may include:

  • Evaluation of your training and work experience.
  • Written tests and/or oral board interviews.
  • Practical demonstration tests.

Passing candidates are placed on a "certified list" to be considered for future vacancies. Note: On July 7, 2025, the City Council voted to comply with the suspension of entry-level certified lists.

Veterans Preference

Eligible veterans receive 5 extra points added to a passing exam score. An additional 5 points (10 total) are added if the veteran has a service-connected disability. (Iowa Code 400.10)

  • How to Claim: Submit your Form DD 214 by the application deadline.
  • Current Status: As of July 7, 2025, veterans preference currently applies only to promotional opportunities.
  • Exclusions: Preference does not apply to the appointment of the Police or Fire Chief.

Educational Definitions

Candidates must provide transcripts or official documents to verify their education level. Use the following guide to understand our requirements:

  • Certificate
    A non-degree technical or vocational program. These credits only count toward education requirements if they are officially accepted and transferred into a degree program at an accredited school.
  • Associate’s Degree
    A two-year undergraduate degree. The City also accepts 60 credit hours toward a Bachelor’s degree as an equivalent. If you have credits from multiple schools, please transfer them to one institution for verification.
  • Bachelor’s Degree
    A four-year undergraduate degree. Verification requires a transcript showing the degree has been officially conferred or awarded.
  • Master’s Degree
    An advanced degree requiring study beyond a Bachelor’s level. This indicates a mastery of a specific field or professional practice.

Important Documentation Note: All educational claims are evaluated based on the official documents you provide. Please ensure all transcripts are submitted before the application deadline to receive full credit for your education.