A LOCAL authority has launched an online register for job applicants.

North Yorkshire County Council says it is leading the way in developing new initiatives to recruit staff using technology.

Applicants can submit their qualifications, experience and job preferences on the Internet register.

The council can then match applicants with current and future vacancies.

A pilot scheme for administrative and clerical jobs is already underway.

Councillor Carl Les, the county council's executive member for corporate services, said: "We want to make it as easy as possible for people to apply for jobs, and to ensure that our methods of recruitment are cost-effective and efficient.

"We have developed the on-line register in order to streamline the process for those applying.

"We anticipate that following this pilot campaign for administrative and clerical staff, we will extend the facility for other relevant vacancies."

The system has been developed in conjunction with recruitment advertising agency Pearsons.

The firm's recruitment director, Jo Fletcher-Lee, said: "The great thing about this system is that job-seekers only need to apply once and can then have vacancies presented to them."

To find out more about opportunities with North Yorkshire County Council for administrative and clerical vacancies, visit www.north yorks.gov.uk