(a) The opportunity for training and development assignments shall be competitive and advertised in accordance with section 249.1, or section 439, unless subdivision (b) applies. To be competitive, the selection process shall involve the use of job-related criteria and any other selection instrument or procedure designed to objectively and fairly evaluate and compare the candidates.

(b) The requirements of subdivision (a) do not apply where all employees in the unit and same classification are given the same training and development assignment (e.g., cross training or job rotation of the employees).

(c) When filling vacancies for permanent, temporary, or limited-term positions, appointing powers may consider broadening recruitment for the position by advertising the position as a possible training and development assignment.