FAQs

Human Resource Department -Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I get an application and announcements?

Applications and announcements are available at Niagara Falls City Hall, 745 Main Street, Room 14. Office hours are 8:00 am to 4:00 pm Monday through Friday (excluding holidays).   You can also download an application right here at our website.

Is there an exam fee?

Yes, the exam fee is based upon the salary of the position and is non-refundable. No cash is accepted. Fees must be paid by check or money order only.

Is there ever a waiver of the application fee?

Yes. Niagara Falls allows a waiver of the application fee for a person who meets one of the following criteria:

A waiver of the application fee will be allowed if you are unemployed and primarily responsible for the support of a household.  In addition, a waiver of the application fee will be allowed if you are determined eligible for Medicaid, or receiving Supplemental Security Income payments, or Public Assistance (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families/Family Assistance or Safety Net Assistance) or are certified Job Training Partnership Act/Workforce Investment Act eligible through a State or local social service agency.  All claims for application fee wavier are subject to verification.  If you can verify eligibility for an application fee waiver, complete a “Request for Application Fee Waiver and Certification” form and submit it with your application by the close of business on the Application Deadline as listed on the Exam Announcement.  An application fee waiver that is not supported by the appropriate documentation is grounds for barring admittance to exam or appointment.  The “Request for Application Fee Waiver and Certification Form” is available in the Human Resource Department at City Hall or online.

People who qualify for a waiver must complete a Fee Waiver Form (available in the office or online) and submit supporting documentation.

How do I apply for more than one exam?

You must complete a separate application for each exam for which you apply. Remember that every position will have different training and experience requirements so be sure to include specific information about your educational background, experience and relevant licenses to show that you meet the minimum qualifications state on the announcement.

What if I need alternate test date arrangements?

Candidates unable to attend due to a religious observance or military commitment shall be permitted to take the exam on another day. Alternate test dates may also be granted for certain other reasons as spelled out in our Alternate Test Date Policy. Multiple tests scheduled for the same date and other employment are NOT grounds for an alternate test date. Please contact this office at (716) 286-4432 for more information.

How do I prepare for the exam? Are study materials available?

The first way to prepare for the exam is to read the test announcement carefully. The “Scope” of the exam provides information regarding the content of the exam. In most cases, neither New York State nor Niagara Falls provides nor recommends any study materials. Some materials may be available through public libraries and private publishers. We cannot comment on the usefulness or quality of such materials. Some basic study guides are available for a few specific exams and can be accessed atwww.cs.state.ny.us/testing/localtestguides.cfm.

When and where are the tests held?

Exams are held in various locations primarily in the City of Niagara Falls. Written exams are held on Saturdays and usually begin between 8:00 am & 9:00 am. The admission notice for the exam will be mailed to you approximately 10 to 7 days prior to the exam date. Call this office if you have not received your exam notice 3 days before the test.

What happens if there are severe weather conditions on the day of the exam?

In the event of extremely severe weather conditions verified by local authorities that may include the closing of specific roads and/or independent transportation services, an examination may need to be cancelled. If this should occur, the cancellation information would be broadcast on WJJL radio, 1440 on the AM dial.

When will I get my test results?

The amount of time between taking a test and getting the results varies, but in general results are sent by mail between 2-6 months after the written test is given. Administration of performance tests can add to the processing time. So if you don’t hear from us right away, sit tight. Every candidate always receives a written report of results.

Do I get extra points on an exam if I am a veteran?

Civil Service Law provides veterans who have served in time of war and meet certain other criteria may be eligible to have veterans’ credits added to their score. Veterans credits are only added to scores of passing candidates and may be used only once for appointment. Applications for veterans credits can be obtained in the Civil Service Office or downloaded on this website.

Can I review my test?

Some exam questions are open for review the Saturday after the test. You must request this review at the test site when you finish your exam. At the review, you will be able to see the questions and answers but not your test paper.

For some exams, you may be able to request a computational review after you receive your grade. During a computational review, you are able to review a copy of your answer paper and the answer key, but not the actual questions.

Can I see the eligible list?

You can see an eligible list at the office located in City Hall –  745 Main St, Niagara Falls, NY -Ground Floor, Room 14.

Who can be considered for appointment from a civil service eligible list?

Everyone ranked above or tied with the third candidate on the eligible list can be considered for appointment. In accordance with Niagara Falls practice, tied scores are ranked on the list by the date and time the application was filed. If there are less than 3 candidates, the appointing authority can make an appointment from the remaining names on thelist or call for another exam.Who do I notify if I move?

It is your responsibility to notify this office of any change in address. Change of address notification can be made in writing to the Niagara Falls Municipal Civil Service Commission. Please include name, previous address, new address and the title of exam(s) or by telephone at (716) 286-4430.

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