Home > Career Center > Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Below are some of the most commonly asked questions from prospective job applicants. If your question is not addressed, please email us at humanresources@cambridgema.gov.

How do I apply for a position at the City of Cambridge?

To view all job openings, please visit our job postings portal. Our applicant tracking system will allow you to apply once as a guest without creating an account. The second time you apply to a job, the system will recognize your email and you will be prompted to create an account.

Can I upload different resumes and cover letters for different positions?

Yes. However, if you apply to multiple positions online, please be aware that removing any previously uploaded attachments such as cover letters will result in removing the attachment from all jobs previously applied to. You can attach a total of up to 10MB of data.

Is a cover letter required when applying online?

Each position has different job application requirements. Please kindly review the job posting application requirements and submit any required application materials necessary.

I just applied to a position. What are the next steps?

It is important to note that departments manage their own interview/hiring process and applicants invited for interviews will be contacted by the hiring department. Once an application is submitted, applications are reviewed by the hiring department interview committee. Once interviews have been completed, the interview committee will submit a recommendation for hire to the Human Resources Department. When the status of a position changes (i.e. position has been filled), an email notification will be sent to all applicants.

Can I edit my job application once it’s been submitted?

No. Once an application has been submitted, it cannot be updated or edited.However, you can remove yourself as an applicant and re-apply.

Can I receive feedback on my application?

We do not provide feedback on individual applications. However, all applicants will be notified regarding their candidacy for each position they apply to.

How do I know if a position is eligible for hybrid work?

Positions that may be eligible for hybrid work under the City's Telework Policy will have information listed under the work environment section of the job posting.

How do I apply for a Labor Service position?

Labor Service jobs are filled through the Labor Service registration process. Applicants are placed on waiting lists and ranked in order of registration date.

Qualified veterans and widowed, unmarried spouses, or parents of veterans who died from a service-connected disability, will receive 1st preference.
A separate registration list is maintained for entry level Labor Service jobs for applicants who meet qualifications of “Section 47A” certification for disadvantaged persons.
Information regarding above qualifications and the application procedure is available through the Personnel Department.
Registration cards are mailed to all registrants indicating a registration number.
Labor Service registration is valid for five years and is subject to all provisions of civil service laws and rules.
Labor applications are accepted whether or not there is a current position vacant.

Download a Labor Service Application Form (PDF)

I noticed that a job listing is still available online on the Job Portal, but the "Application Requested By" date has passed. Can I still apply to the position online, and is the position still open?

Yes, if a position is posted on our Job Portal, it means the position is still open. Job postings include an "Application Requested By" date, and while first consideration will be given to applicants who apply by that date, the position may remain open until filled. You are welcome to submit your application online even if the requested date has passed.