Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Do I need a computer to apply?
A: If you do not have a computer with internet service you will be able to access the system from any City Library, the Human Resources Department at City Hall, or at any Police Command center.

2. Q: How do I set up an email account?
A: If you do not have an email address, you can get one free from Yahoo, AOL or Google. (Note: The City of El Paso does not endorse the use of any specific email service. This information is provided as a courtesy.)

for Gmail (Google)
for AOL
for Yahoo

Q: Can applications be submitted daily?
A:  Applications are only accepted for current openings. A list of current job openings is available by calling our (24) twenty-four hour Job Line at (915) 541-4094 or by visiting the Human Resources employment section on our web page.

Q: Can I submit a Job interest card?
A:  If our current openings do not include jobs you are interested in at this time, you may complete a job interest notification request. To sign up for e-mail notifications - you can request job notifications by specific job titles. You will be notified by e-mail once the position(s) you are interested in is open for recruitment.

Q:  Is there a different application for Original, Promotional, or Competitive Reassignment candidates?
A:  There is one application for all candidates.

Q:  Do I need to complete a new application each time I apply for a City position?
A:  Candidates can simply update their previous application on file and submit for other job opportunities.

Q:  I have been disqualified. Now what can I do?
A:  Applicants who are disqualified from taking an examination may appeal to the Civil Service Commission. Appeals may be turned in Monday thru Thursday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the Human Resources Department. When necessary, candidates may be asked to give more details concerning current or past work experience. Applicants may obtain the correct form to expand on work experience by clicking here.

Q:  What is the Civil Service Commission
A:  The Civil Service Commission is a quasi-judicial board volunteering their time to ensure applicants and employees are treated fairly. For more information, visit Civil Service Commission web page.

Q:  What is the appeal process?
A:  Applicants who are disqualified may appeal to the Civil Service Commission, but must do so within seven calendar days of the date of the disqualification. Untimely appeals will not be accepted. The Commission will meet the second Thursday of each month at 6:00 p.m.

Q: When will I be contacted?
A: The Human Resources Department will review your job application and will email you a notice of qualification or disqualification with instructions. If qualified, once testing is completed and the eligible list has been certified, a new notice with your grade and rank on the eligible list will be emailed to you. The Human Resources Department will contact the top five candidates from the eligible list to set up an interview with the hiring department when vacancies occur.

Q:  How do I study for an examination?
A:  All tests are related to the position and examination topics come from knowledge, skills, and abilities required for the position. We recommend that you review the knowledge, skills, and abilities posted on the job specification.

Q: If I am interviewed for a position and not selected…will I be notified?
A: Yes, you will be notified that you were not selected.

Q: How long is an eligible list in effect?
A:  Normally, 6 months unless exhausted or extended by the Human Resources Director.

Q:  Where will I work and where is the job located?
A:  The job location varies with the department. There are multiple work locations within the City.

Q:  What type of files can I attached to my application?
A:  Accepted file formats are: Acrobat Portable Document Format ('.pdf'), Microsoft Excel Spreadsheet ('.xls'), or Microsoft Word Document ('.doc').