VALDOSTA — The United States Census Bureau will hire hundreds of thousands of Census takers over the next two years to conduct the 2010 Census.

Recruiting has already begun for the address canvassing portion of the 2010 Census. Those hired will update addresses to which questionnaires will be mailed in 2010.

Although hiring for most address canvassing positions will not begin until April 2009, United States Census Bureau officials say now is the time to apply.

Individuals who are eligible to be a census taker are United States citizens, legal permanent residents or non-citizens with an appropriate work visa and a bilingual skill for which there are no available qualified citizens, and at least 18 years of age. They have a valid Social Security number, pass a written test of basic skills and a background check, and can commit up to four days to paid training.

Census testing is scheduled to begin at 2 p.m. today at the Valdosta City Hall Annex at 300 N. Lee St.

No appointment is necessary.

The 30-minute employment test of basis skills features 28 multiple choice questions and measures the skills, abilities, and knowledge required to perform a variety of Census jobs. There are five parts to the test — clerical skills, reading, basic math, interpreting information, and organizational skills.

The test is offered in both English and Spanish. However, those taking the Spanish test must also pass an English proficiency test.

Background checks will be conducted on applicants using information provided on the job application.

Applicants meeting minimum qualifications will be eligible for a job when work is available in their community. Chances for being hired depend on the amount of work in an applicant’s area, as well as an applicant’s test score, veteran status, and number of hours available for work. Positions require a valid driver’s license and use of a vehicle in areas where public transportation is not available.

Although most census taker positions will become available in April and May of 2009, there may be some positions that are available sooner, if not immediately, in some areas.

Census workers are paid on a weekly basis and are reimbursed for authorized work expenses, such as mileage and public transportation costs. United States Census Bureau officials say these positions are ideal for retired persons, college students, and those already employed but looking for some part-time work and extra income.

Additional employment tests of basic skills for 2010 Census positions are scheduled as follows:

• 2 p.m. on Wednesday at the Valdosta-Lowndes County Library at 300 Woodrow Wilson Drive;

• 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. on Thursday at the Valdosta-Lowndes County Library at 300 Woodrow Wilson Drive;