Forward Observer: Another Plug for Helping the Census Bureau

We have already written about the need to participate in the 2020 census, individually or by working as a census taker.   The Lehigh Valley did phenomenally poorly last census to its detriment, we have been told.

So, here comes a little more information for those veterans and their friends who have the ability to stand up and assist as temporary employees of the U.S. Census Bureau — and it is not a bad deal financially for the hours worked, either.

Click on to enlarge

First, see the flyer to the right for how to apply and the positions available. Remember the Allentown office handles the Lehigh Valley, and in fact, the northeast tier of Pennsylvania. The pay rates for Lehigh and Northampton counties  are the same ($18/hour for enumerators as opposed to office workers).  Additionally, those traveling as part of their job are compensated at $57.50 a mile.

For additional information, suggest you call the local number:  484-781-6175 for the “Allentown” office, but don’t expect to visit to apply (therefore, will not reveal its location).  Indeed, the only way to apply is online.  That should tell you another requirement of these jobs:  you need to be computer literate — but not a techie or former child protege.

Incidentally, the  national 1-888-480-1639 on the flyer, although toll free, will direct you to the Philadelphia Regional Office first,  the next higher of the Allentown office; and we suspect you will then enter the tragedy of phoneland valhalla to keep you both occupied and mystified, if our test of the system was any indication.

Positions available

Second, you should know they are actively seeking veterans.  They have a quota to fill.  Therefore, do not forget to bring up that you are a veteran and include the needed information when you apply.  If you are a veteran who served on active duty in the U.S. armed forces and were separated under honorable conditions, you may be eligible. It requires simple documentation to support your claim — but here is the thing, the rules are complicated, as bureau employees will admit, and those rules screw with military retirees in addition (not all).  It does not mean you will not be hired, but it does mean you may not get all or any of the veterans preference points.  For more information on how points are assigned and what documentation is required go to U.S. Office of Personnel Management Veterans’ Preference page or ask the “Allentown” Office first.

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RJH
As of 12 February 2020