Public servant cover letter: example and tips

A complete cover letter for public servant jobs in Switzerland, what recruiters in the field look for, and the openings available right now.

What the recruiter wants to read

Your training (commercial apprenticeship in public administration, federal certificate) and your current department.
Your tasks: front desk, files, procedures, the laws you apply.
Your public service ethos, accuracy and knowledge of local institutions.

A complete example

Names and facts are made up: replace each one with your own. A copied letter shows, an adapted one gets read.

Example

Subject: Application for the residents’ registration officer position

Dear Head of Department,

Your municipality is looking for an administrative officer for the residents’ registration office. I have worked at the front desk of a municipal administration for four years and know the procedures for arrivals, departures and residence permits well.

With a commercial apprenticeship in public administration, I work for the Municipality of Prilly. I serve residents at the counter and by phone, process arrivals and departures, prepare permit applications for the cantonal population office and issue certificates. I helped set up the online counter.

The quality of your administration’s service and your e-government project make me want to join you.

My notice period is three months, and I would be glad to meet you.

Kind regards,
Camille Tinguely

Enclosures: CV, work references, diplomas