Veterans’ Preference

The State of Colorado wants you to continue your service by joining our workforce. The State of Colorado’s values mirror your experience!

• Leadership: Veterans know the dynamics of leadership as part of both hierarchical and peer structures.

• Teamwork: Veterans understand how genuine teamwork grows out of a responsibility to one's colleagues. 

• Diversity and inclusion in action: Veterans have learned to work side by side with individuals regardless of diverse race, gender, geographic origin, ethnic background, religion, and economic status as well as mental, physical, and attitudinal capabilities. They have the sensitivity to cooperate with many different types of individuals.

• Respect for procedures: Veterans have gained a unique perspective on the value of accountability. They know how policies and procedures enable an organization to exist.

• Technology and globalization: Veterans are usually aware of international and technical trends pertinent to business and industry. They can bring the kind of global outlook and technological savvy that all departments need regardless of size.

• Integrity: Veterans know what it means to do "an honest day's work." This integrity translates into qualities of sincerity and trustworthiness.

• Conscious of health and safety standards: Veterans are aware of health and safety protocols both for themselves and the welfare of others. 

Veterans' Preference Points

The Colorado Constitution (Article XII, Section 15) authorizes veterans’ preference. Eligibility requirements are as follows:

1. Veterans who served on active duty for a specific time period that is authorized for preference by U.S. Congress. 

2. Veterans who served on active duty during authorized time periods and received a specific campaign badge or service medal. 

3. Veterans who served on active duty and who because of a disability incurred in the line of duty are receiving monetary compensation or disability retired benefits. 

4. Pursuant to Article XII, Section 15(5) of the Colorado Constitution, no person shall receive preference with respect to a promotional opportunity. Any promotional opportunity that is also open to persons other than employees, for whom such appointment would be a promotion, shall be considered a promotional opportunity for the purposes of this section. 

What documents do I need to provide to receive veterans' preference?

1. If you believe you are eligible for Veterans' Preference, attach documentation to your application including a DD-214, Member 4 showing the character of service. 

2. If you believe you are eligible for Veterans' Preference as a disabled veteran, along with the DD-214, your application should also include a letter from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) indicating a service-connected disability.