H.R. reviews every app to see if you make the minimum qualifications, and you won't get past that process to speak with the dept. you will interview with unless you know someone important (or has decided they want you). Usually a group of at least three people ask you questions, and all panel members will score your answers. An H.R. rep. watches the process they say for equitable treatment of applicants. When all applicants are seen the scores for each are totaled, and if there is a clear winner that person will be contacted by H.R. later with an offer of employment. The panel members are not necessarily people you will be working with or for, but generally at least one of them will be your possible future boss or co-worker.