Explainer | Hong Kong civil service jobs: how to apply and are they still a big draw for graduates?

Hong Kong government recruitment drives for administrative officer, executive officer and several other roles popular with university graduates start in September.

While civil service jobs have lost their appeal for some Hongkongers under the shifting political environment, the pay and security offered by the so-called iron rice bowls remain attractive to many.

Here is what you need to know about the application process for high-paying jobs that attract thousands of young graduates every year.

1. What jobs are on offer?

Four types of posts are covered in the latest recruitment exercise.

First, the administrative officer. These are members of an elite corp in the civil service who help draft most policies.

Second, the executive officer II is a role specialising in resource and system management.

Third, the assistant trade officer II. Their duties include helping with research on trade, industry, innovation and technology matters.