NYC Civil Service Problem Sensitivity and Judgment Questions and Answers

Question 1

A city parks employee, while cleaning a playground, finds a wallet on a bench. The wallet contains a driver's license, credit cards, and a significant amount of cash. What is the most appropriate immediate action for the employee to take?

Accepted Answer

Secure the wallet and immediately report the finding to their direct supervisor or the designated lost-and-found authority.

Answer

This action follows proper procedure, ensures the wallet and its contents are safe, and protects the employee from any accusations of theft. It is the most responsible and professional choice, creating a clear chain of custody for the found property.

Question 2

You are a city office administrator reviewing employee expense reports. City policy states that all travel expenses over $25 require an itemized receipt and that meal reimbursements are not permitted for non-overnight travel. Which of the following expense report entries represents a problem that requires follow-up?

Accepted Answer

A claim for a $15.00 lunch during a regular workday with an itemized receipt.

Answer

The policy explicitly forbids meal reimbursements for non-overnight travel. The lunch claim violates this rule, regardless of the amount or the presence of a receipt. The other expenses are either under the receipt threshold or have the proper documentation.

Question 3

A city librarian is approached by a teenager who is visibly upset and distressed. The teenager quietly asks for information on youth shelters and crisis hotlines but seems hesitant to provide any personal details. What is the librarian's most appropriate response in this situation?

Accepted Answer

Discreetly provide the requested information, such as pamphlets or a list of resources, and let them know they are in a safe place.

Answer

This response respects the individual's privacy and immediate need while providing the requested public information. It is helpful, non-judgmental, and maintains the library as a safe community space. Insisting on details or involving security without a clear, immediate threat could escalate the situation or scare the teenager away.

Question 4

You are working at the front desk of a busy city agency. At the same moment, the following four events occur. Which of these should you address first?

Accepted Answer

An elderly visitor trips on a rug and appears to be in pain.

Answer

Potential human injury and safety is always the highest priority in any workplace. The other tasks are routine and do not involve immediate risk to a person's well-being. They can wait until the visitor's situation has been assessed and addressed.

Question 5

A city planner has access to confidential bids submitted by several construction companies for a major infrastructure project. Before the official selection is made, the planner mentions to a friend who works at one of the bidding companies that their company's bid is 'looking very competitive.' Which of the following is the most serious potential problem with the planner's action?

Accepted Answer

It could be perceived as a breach of confidentiality and compromise the integrity of the bidding process.

Answer

The competitive bidding process must be fair and confidential to all participants. Sharing any information, even if vague, can create an appearance of favoritism or an unfair advantage. This undermines public trust, compromises the integrity of the procurement process, and could lead to legal challenges.

NYC - Civil Service Exam Practice Test

NYC - Civil Service Exam Practice Test

NYC Civil Service Problem Sensitivity and Judgment Questions and Answers