Frequently Asked Questions

City of McAllen » Human Resources » Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why don’t I see the position that I am applying for?

The Human Resource Department advertises job vacancies as they become available. If the position you are looking for is not being advertised, you may want to check back later.

2. I don’t have a HS diploma or GED. Can I still apply?

You may apply. However if the position you are applying for requires a high school diploma or GED, you will not be eligible for hire. The City of McAllen currently requires a high school diploma or GED for employment with the exception of seasonal (summer) employment.

3. Do I have to know how to use a computer to work for the City?

It is helpful however not all positions require that you know how to use a computer. Please review the minimum job requirements on the position description to determine if computer skills will be required.

4. I applied for a job and lost my password. How do I access your employment website?

There are 2 ways of addressing this issue:

• Click on I Forgot My Password . The web link will provide you detailed instructions on how to reset your password.
• Contact the Human Resource Department at (956) 681-1045 and request assistance.

5. Is there a limit as to the number of positions that I can apply for?

No, you may apply to as many positions as you wish. It is important that you review the minimum job requirements on each position to ensure that you qualify for the position that you are applying for.

6. How long is each job posted for?

Jobs are posted for a minimum of five days to include weekends. The closing dates are listed with each job posting. At times there may be vacancies that indicate “Open Until Filled.” These vacancies are generally more difficult to fill and will remain open until a viable candidate has been selected for the position.

7. Does the City require a pre employment drug test?

Yes. The City of McAllen promotes a drug free work environment. All selected applicants for hire must submit to a pre employment drug test as a condition of hire.

8. Where can I get assistance on how to submit an application?

Online instructions are located at our department web site www.mcallen.net/hr

9. I do not want my employer to find out that at I am applying with the City of McAllen?

Will you be contacting my current employer if I apply? References are checked as part of the pre-employment process. However, if you do not want your current employer Indicate on the online application if you do or do not want your employer to be contacted.

10. Will the City accept online educational classes?

No, the City of McAllen will only accept high school diplomas or GED’s approved by a state accredited education agency.

11. Will I be notified if I am not selected for the position that I applied for?

Due to the high volume of applications received, we are unable to contact each applicant individually. However you may view your application status by logging onto our web site at www.mcallen.net and accessing your application through the Applicant Home Screen. Once you access your application click on the section entitled “Application Status”. Clicking on this tab will enable you to view your application’s status on each of the positions that you applied for.

12. Will the online posting reflect the work schedule for the position that I am applying for?

No. Most positions are 8-5 Monday thru Friday with week-ends off. However there are a number of positions that require shift work and / or working on week-ends. To obtain additional information such as hours and days worked, please contact the HR Recruiter at (956) 681-1045.

13. Can I check on the status of my application online?

Yes. Applicants can check their application status by logging onto www.mcallen.net and accessing their account through the Applicant Home Screen. Once on the Applicant Home Screen, you simply need to enter your username and password. If you cannot, recall your assigned username and password contact the HR Office at (956)681-1045 for assistance.

14. How often are your job postings update?

Job listings are posted as they become available. Applicants can view the vacancies by logging onto the City of McAllen web site at www.mcallen.net

15. How long will it take to review my application?

The time that it takes to screen your application will be determined by a number of factors such as the vacancy closing date and the total number of applications received.

16. Can I apply directly with the department that has the opening or do I have to go through HR?

No. All applications must be submitted through the online application system.

17. Can I attach a resume to my online application?

Yes. The online application has an area in which you may attach or paste your resume. Valid extensions for attaching a resume are ".doc", ".html", ".htm", ".txt", ".rtf" and ".pdf". If you require assistance in attaching your resume, please contact the Human Resources Department at (956) 681-1045.

18. Once I apply online what do I do if I want to make a change to my application?

You can make changes to your application by logging onto your account and selecting one of two adjustments: “contact details” or “my resume has changed”.

19. What if I miss the closing date? Is it too late to apply?

Yes. Applications will not be accepted once the closing date has expired.

20. I saw a reference to exempt and non exempt. What does that mean?

Individuals assigned to work in a non-exempt positions are eligible to receive overtime pay for hours worked over 40 hours in a work week. Overtime is calculated at 1.5 times the employee’s hourly rate. Employees in exempt positions do not receive overtime pay regardless of how many hours worked in a regular work week.

21. I do not know how to use the computer. Can someone help me with my application?

Yes, you can receive assistance from a Human Resources Department staff member. To request assistance, please contact 681-1045 to schedule an appointment. Applicants requiring accommodations to apply will be assisted accordingly.

22. I have applied for a position with the City, but no one has ever contacted me for an interview. Why?

The City of McAllen often receives approximately 50-100 applicants per vacancy, sometimes even more. From this number approximately 5-10 applicants are selected for an interview based on their knowledge, skills, and abilities. Given the extensive screening involved, it often takes awhile to complete the process and call people in for interviews. In some instances, applicants will not be called in for an interview if it is determined that they are not one of the top applicants for the position.

23. Can I save my application without completing it?

No, our online program will only retain completed applications.

24. Will an arrest or conviction prevent me from getting selected?

Not necessarily. The City of McAllen assesses each situation on a case by case basis. Factors such as age of the offense, type of offense and overall “risk” are evaluated to determine one’s eligibility for hire. An arrest or conviction may not disqualify you but a false statement or omission may.

25. Can I schedule an interview for a job?

No, interviews are conducted by invitation only.

26. If there is a closing date on the position, at what time does the position close?

The position closes at midnight on the closing date.

27. Can I send my resume without submitting an online application?

Yes. However it is strongly recommended that you submit an online application as soon as possible to complete your application file.

28. What is a referral form?

A referral form is used when applying for non- Civil Service (police) positions only.

29. Where can I get a referral form?

Referral forms can be picked up at the Human Resource Department upon successful completion of an online application.