Local elected officials are reminding residents about the importance of the 2010 Census as well as potential job opportunities that come with it.
“The 2010 Census is extremely important to Queens,” Queens Borough President Helen Marshall told the heads of the Queens community boards at her January Borough Cabinet meeting. “We absolutely need our fair share of federal dollars and congressional representation.”
In addition, Councilmember Elizabeth Crowley has teamed up with the 2010 Census Bureau to provide temporary job opportunities that will pay between $14 and $21 per hour for citizens in Queens.
“I highly encourage those seeking employment to take advantage of the ‘Census Practice Test’ for temporary job opportunities available through the 2010 Census Bureau,” said Crowley.
Despite the wording, the “Census Practice Test” is the official test, which a prospective employee must pass. Five Census Testing centers will be set up in different locations in western Queens. Eligible criteria for landing a Census job is to be at least 18 years old, pass a multiple choice test, and have a valid Social Security number. U.S. citizens will be given preference.
The test has five parts, which includes clerical skills, reading, number skills, evaluating alternatives, and organizational skill. There are 30 questions total, including two beginning sample ones.
Those hired will start working in February, and the Census work will last for about six months following that. Employees can expect to mail out Census surveys and then organize the returned ones among other things. If surveys are not returned, employees will make follow-up calls and if need be, they will go door-to-door.
“In Queens, where the unemployment rate has reached 9.2 percent, the recession has deprived thousands of families without a steady income,” said Crowley. “The 2010 Census Bureau is offering well-paying temporary jobs that can help tide people over until they have found a more permanent job placement.”
To schedule a test, please call 866-861-2010.
