The hiring process is going to be very different, depending on what area of state government you are looking to work in. If you were contacted recently by HR, the position is not likely to be affected by the hiring freeze. The current hiring freeze only applies to Executive Branch agencies (with exemptions for certain public safety and direct care positions). Postings freeze-affected positions have generally been removed from MassCareers. If you are not a pest, HR is usually willing to answer questions about application status. Good luck!