If you are in search of a secure and challenging work environment, consider your options with the Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA). The MVA is a state entity perched under the oversight of the Maryland Department of Transportation (MDOT). Thus, landing a position with either of these branches is having the good fortune to work for the state.

Working in government jobs offers job security rarely found in the private sector. Plus, the pay is at least generally competitive with independent firms, and the benefits package is usually hard to beat.

The job board has plenty of internal listings available. The site is rather specific about letting you know if you have to hold the status of current state employee in order to fill out the paperwork. Of course, most of the jobs posted seek to recruit applications from anyone in the general public suited to the qualifications. Both MDOT and the MVA have numerous contract positions available.

Top How to Apply

The process is managed by the Transportation Service Human Resources System (TSHRS). This is where the quest to get on the state payroll begins, usually with you filling out a general application for an open position.

In many cases you will be able to complete and submit the information required online. It just depends on the position and how it is being reviewed. Other positions will require you to download an application (available in both PDF and Word formats.)

If you do download the application your only means to send it to the appropriate party is via mail―faxing is not an option. Most of the employment postings will direct you to where you need to send the complete paperwork, including your resume.

The system may be centralized when it comes to recruiting and testing, but each division still has its own set of reviewers and they are not all in the same place. So double-check to make sure you are sending all of your materials to the correct address.

The MVA publishes an informative brochure that will definitely be of service when you sit down to fill out the application. It offers invaluable tips on how to tackle each section.

The administration does not stop there, either. Besides the application guidelines, the MVA also jots down some insight on how to perfect the art of the cover letter and spiff the dust off the resume. Literally, if you possess the education and skill for a posted job, the state goes the extra mile to make it easy to present your abilities.

Top Testing and Interviewing

If your application and resume are up to par and you meet or exceed the credentials listed for the job, then there is a good chance you will move to the examination phase. This is where things get serious and you have the chance to really rise to the top.

There are a variety of tests you might encounter, but each is based on the specific job and is designed to evaluate the applicant to the fullest extent.

The last step is the selection process, which is where you will be scheduled for a possible interview based on where your test score placed you. This is generally one of three categories: Best Qualified, Well Qualified, and Qualified.

In most circumstances the final choice will come from this dwindled-down pool of applicants, so having a successful interview is essential. For a bit of insider knowledge on how to wow at the big meeting check out the MVA's How to Ace Your Interview brochure.

Our content is updated based on input from users like you. Help make it better!